New Cross Gate to Forest Hill and the Horniman Museum

This is a fairly short but hilly walk of about 8km (5 miles) with quite a lot of ascent and some steep climbs. It is part of the natural ridge that winds across south-east London from Shooter's Hill to Sydenham Hill and out westwards towards Denmark Hill.

It is a prosperous area; a landscape of handsome Victorian and Edwardian houses, fine parks and green spaces where, in ancient times, castles and fortresses were built. In Napoleonic times a string of Telegraph stations were placed along the ridge to convey news from the battlefield or ship movements in the channel where television and radio masts are now placed.

Nunhead is one of the 'magnificent seven' Victorian cemeteries in London. At 52 acres, it is the second largest; a Local Nature Reserve containing the grade II listed East Lodge and 'Scottish Political Martyrs' memorial inspired by the French Revolution to campaign for greater democracy. There are also many First and Second World War Commonwealth war graves and memorials.

Ancient woodlands once stretched across the hills and commons of South London. One Tree Hill was saved from development into a private golf course by mass protest and occupation for several years. Eventually, London County Council bought the land in 1905 and declared it a public space. 

The highpoint of the walk is Forest Hill at 106m above sea level, the 16th highest point in London. It has remarkable panoramic views from Shooters Hill and Eltham, the Crystal Palace transmitter popping up between houses, Battersea Power Station and Wembley Stadium.

The walk ends at the Horniman Museum. Opened in 1901, it houses one of the most significant ethnographic collections in the UK; some  80,000 objects from around the world. The museum includes beautiful gardens and a stunning glasshouse. Entry is free with donation.

Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead when required and under control at all times.

Waitlist: If this event is fully booked, please add yourself to the waitlist. Places often become available closer to the date. If you will not attend, cancel your attendance as soon as possible to allow someone else to take your place. 

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