Kenley to Coulsdon South, 2 Nov

Trains:  London Bridge 9.40; East Croydon 09.58; arr Kenley 10.14. The train goes to Caterham and Tattenham Corner (dividing at Purley). You need to be in the front section of the train (going to Caterham).

The return journey is from Coulsdon South, where trains run roughly every 15 minutes either to London Bridge or Victoria. (But when we did the recce the London Bridge trains were all cancelled for staff shortages.)

Both journeys are within Zone 6.

The walk: About 8 miles and fairly hilly. We begin with a short, sharp climb up to Riddlesdown Common, then the morning walk follows the route of the London Loop through Kenley Woods and to Coulsdon Common. In the afternoon we walk to Chaldon Church (hoping it is open to see the medieval wall painting) and then back to the slopes of Happy Valley and along the Farthing Down ridge to Coulsdon South station.

Conditions: Some of the slopes are steepish, but most are not too long. It was very muddy when we did the recce and walking poles are recommended. Some hill steps and a couple of reasonable stiles.

Lunch: The Fox at Coulsdon Common. I have provisionally booked a table for eight – if you would like to eat in the pub, please let me know.

Break-off point: There is a bus stop at Coulsdon Common to take you to Purley or South Croydon stations.

Janet. Contact via enquiries@morleyramblers.uk