Croydon, Croham Hurst, Littleheath Woods and Addington Hills

An Unexpected Rural Walk in the Heart of a London Suburb

The London Borough of Croydon, which has grown enormously with the overspill population from the metropolis, may seem an unlikely spot for a rural ramble. However, the route passes through green surroundings for well over half its distance, taking in attractive woodland and parkland scenery, a splendid ridge walk, a nature reserve, and a beautiful landscaped garden.

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Start Point

South Croydon Station

Grid Ref: TQ 32810 64367

Total Distance

6.1 miles (9.8 km)

Total Climbing

176 metres

Estimated Time

3 hours

Difficulty Grade

Moderate

Trail Navigation Files:

💾 Download GPX Route Google Earth (KMZ) 📖 About Croydon

Ordnance Survey Explorer Map (1:25,000)

Essential paper map for exploring London South:

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The Walk Report

The walk begins at South Croydon Station. Suburban development soon gives way to the woodland of Croham Hurst. The spine of the woods is Breakneck Hill, the site of a prehistoric settlement, rising to 472 feet (144 metres) with ridge views.

Passing along the edge of Croham Hurst Golf Club, the route continues to Littleheath Woods and Bramley Bank Nature Reserve (managed by the London Wildlife Trust).

Addington Hills offer panoramic views right across London to the Chilterns and Epping Forest. The route descends into Coombe Wood with its landscaped gardens and cafeteria before following the Vanguard Way through Lloyd Park back to South Croydon.

Acknowledgment: Text derived from the Out and Out Series; Discovering the Countryside on Foot. Pictures courtesy of Wikipedia.

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Croydon, Croham Hurst, Littleheath Woods and Addington Hills

Ordnance Survey Explorer Map (1:25,000)

The Walk Report

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