London Loop Section 4 – Hamsey Green to West Wickham
It was so great to get back out on the London Loop the other week, picking up at the end of Section 5 at Hamsey Green and continuing along Section 4 to West Wickham. Note that I’m walking in the anti-clockwise direction and started on Section 17 at Enfield Lock in January 2018. This does make following the excellent Transport for London maps and directions a little challenging at times, but I’ve got used to reading them in reverse over the last three-and-a-half years.
This was a glorious section of the London Loop – I know it probably sounds as if I say that about them all, but some are certainly more bucolic than others and crossing the southern highlands of greater London in sections 5 and 4 from Coulsdon South to West Wickham has been quite stunning. And easily the most physically demanding sections that I’ve walked so far.
The highlight of section 4 was undoubtedly the incredible views back across the London basin from Addington Hills. But the field path that led from Kingswood Lane in Hamsey Green then progressed through Puplet Wood and Selsdon Wood was a real treat. As was seeing the Croydon Trams at Coombe Lane, and crossing Fallen Oak Field. All this in the London Borough of Croydon. And that’s the great charm of the London Loop – it reveals the city anew to you as you walk through great woods and meadows, pass by working farms, and tramp across the commons. You realise just how green the capital is – and what was done to preserve these precious open spaces.
September 2021 is the 20th Anniversary of the London Loop – what better time to get out on London’s orbital path.
Loved this walk! Especially the end! Welcome back.I agree with your son, you are a hippie wizard!😃
I’m with Phil Burdett. Thanks for the walks.
So interesting. Keep it going.
John thank you for the videos, some great walks and rabbit holes to get lost down. Any astronauts out there, Great walk to be had from Guildford to Goldalming along river, also the city of london barbican walkway and parks on gresham/noble street. All Best
Thanks Rod