Deck the Hills (of Sevenoaks) (19 miles/Strenuous)

Metropolitan Walkers is part of the Ramblers, Britain's walking charity. All welcome for 3 'taster' walks, after which please join the Ramblers - info on the Met Walkers website

A fast paced walk taking on some of the steepest climbs the Greensand Ridge has to offer (including Ide Hill, Bayley's Hill, Carter's Hill) that will not only keep the heart pumping and the blood circulating on a potentially cold winter's day, but is also surely the best preperation for the likely overindulgance of the incoming festive period. Total ascent is around 850 metres. Some paths are likely to be muddy.

The intention is to walk at a brisk pace (an average of 3 - 3.5 mph) to avoid having to walk in total darkness, but please bring a headtorch just in case. The final three miles are two miles through Knole and then the last mile is from the walk finishing point on Sevenoaks High Street to Sevenoaks Railway Station (which is included in total distance), so will be straightfoward to navigate in the dark anyway if need be. Dusk is often the best time to see all of the deer of Knole.

Bring a packed lunch. The lunch stop will be at only around 6.5 miles into the walk (slightly earlier than i would like but is the best spot) on the green at Ide Hill Village where there is also a pub for drinks only. The pub itself tends to be rather hostile towards muddy boats, so if entering please be prepared to either remove boots or cover them. Plenty of pubs and restaurants in Sevenoaks Town Centre to choose from at the end of the walk for a festive celebration.

The wearing of festive hats and jumpers on the walk is also encouraged!

Transport: Take the 9:15 from London Charing Cross (Waterloo East: 9:18, London Bridge: 9:24), arrive at Sevenoaks at 9:49.

Buy a return to Sevenoaks. Meet just inside the main entrance of Sevenoaks Railway Station.

Grading: Strenuous.
For an explanation of the gradings, please see the FAQ - please consider both the length and grade when choosing a walk.

Finish point: Sevenoaks Station
More info: https://www.ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/group-walks/deck-hills-sevenoaks