Falconwood to Greenwich Park Walk

Starting near Falconwood, this 17 km (approximately 10.5 miles) point-to-point trail offers a delightful mix of urban and natural landscapes, with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). The trail is estimated to be of medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There To reach the trailhead near Falconwood, you can take the Southeastern train service to Falconwood Station, which is well-connected to central London. If you prefer to drive, there is limited parking available near the station, but public transport is generally the more convenient option.

Trail Overview The trail begins in the suburban area of Falconwood, where you'll start your journey through a series of parks and green spaces. Early on, you'll pass through Oxleas Wood, a beautiful ancient woodland that dates back over 8,000 years. This area is rich in biodiversity, so keep an eye out for native bird species and small mammals.

Oxleas Wood to Eltham Palace After about 3 km (1.9 miles), you'll reach Eltham Palace, a stunning blend of medieval and Art Deco architecture. The palace was originally a royal residence and later transformed by the Courtauld family in the 1930s. It's worth taking a short detour to explore the palace and its gardens if time permits.

Sutcliffe Park and Kidbrooke Continuing on, the trail takes you through Sutcliffe Park, a large open space that has been transformed into a wetland area. This section is relatively flat and offers a peaceful respite from the more urban surroundings. After approximately 7 km (4.3 miles) from the start, you'll enter the Kidbrooke area, where the trail becomes more urbanized.

Blackheath and Greenwich Park As you approach the 14 km (8.7 miles) mark, you'll arrive at Blackheath, a large open heath that offers panoramic views of London. This area is historically significant as it was a rallying point for various historical events, including the Peasants' Revolt in 1381.

The final stretch of the trail leads you into Greenwich Park, one of London's Royal Parks. The park is home to the Royal Observatory, the Prime Meridian Line, and the National Maritime Museum. The elevation gain here is more noticeable, but the effort is rewarded with stunning views over the River Thames and the city skyline.

Navigation and Safety For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is generally well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool will ensure you stay on track.

Wildlife and Flora Throughout the trail, you'll encounter a variety of flora and fauna. Oxleas Wood is particularly rich in ancient trees and woodland plants, while Sutcliffe Park's wetland area attracts a range of bird species. Greenwich Park also offers diverse plant life, including formal gardens and ancient trees.

Historical Significance The trail is steeped in history, from the ancient woodlands of Oxleas Wood to the royal heritage of Eltham Palace and Greenwich Park. Each section offers a glimpse into different eras of London's past, making this hike not just a physical journey but a historical one as well.

This trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and urban landscapes, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.