hammersmith, fulham and wandsworth group logo

Hammersmith & Wandsworth Group

We are the Hammersmith, Fulham & Wandsworth Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking

Overview

Join me to uncover hidden gems of South East London. We begin this moderate walk by going to the historic ruins of Lesnes Abbey, a tranquil 12th-century site providing a fascinating start to our journey. From there we continue on the Green Chain Walk, climbing through ancient woods and parkland, with some necessary road walking to the strategic high point of Shooters Hill: a perfect place for a picnic with a view and a visit to the popular café. We then pass the stately Charlton House and then see the geologically fascinating Gilbert’s Pit. The walk finishes at the impressive Thames Barrier, a testament to modern engineering. There are many drop out points. Toilets at Abbey Wood station and at lunch. I recommend bringing some picnic food as the cafe is likely to be busy.

Wednesday, 9 July 2025
Start time:
11:00 am
Estimated finish time:
4:30 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
15.3km / 9.5mi
Ascent:
N/A
Type:
linear

Trains to Abbey Wood are available on the Elizabeth Line eastbound or from London Bridge on Thameslink or Southeastern.  

This is a joint walk with Richmond Ramblers

Features

  • Refreshments available (Pub/cafe)
  • Toilets available
  • Accessible by public transport
  • No car needed

Starting point

Grid reference:
TQ 47358 78949
Nearest postcode:
SE2 9RH
what3words:
gloves.scarf.appear
Start time:
11:00 am

Meet on the upper concourse of Abbey Wood Station.

Finishing point

Grid reference:
TQ 41575 79268
Nearest postcode:
SE18 5TF
what3words:
mouth.zoom.admiral
Estimated finish time:
4:30 pm

Finish at the Thames Barrier. Charlton Station (National Rail - Southeastern is 20 minutes walk away, or can be reached by bus. Woolwich Stations (incl Elizabeth line) are 25 minutes away by bus.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking