Best walks to or from Abbey Wood

Abbey Wood Station to Erith Station

a terrific view across the ruins to London proper. A varied walk with over two-thirds on green or blue paths along the base of a hillside, through ancient woodland, parks and the Thames waterfront, linked by quieter residential streets. Some muddy and slippery sections in the woods and parks and with several sets of steps and a footbridge. Joins the well-signposted Green Chain Walk for easy navigation. Lesnes Abbey Woods is ancient woodland with abbey ruins, toilets, bluebells in spring, and wintering birds on the Thames mudflats at Erith.

Easy: 5km, moderate ascents.

There are a few blind corners on the sometimes narrow Thames waterfront path; a stretch may be temporarily closed for works (check before walking). Several sets of steps, including the footbridge over Bronze Age Way.

Lunch: A kiosk café and toilets at Lesnes Abbey ruins; shops and toilets at Abbey Wood and Erith.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route

Woolwich Arsenal Station to Abbey Wood Station

Around 40% off-road, using quiet residential roads and The Ridgeway, a raised green walking and cycle route, with a section through new developments. A big set of steep steps has adjacent slopes for wheels and an uneven gravel path. Optional detour to the old Royal Arsenal buildings, Arts Centre or Antony Gormley riverside sculptures. The Ridgeway has anti-motorbike width restrictions at both entrances; the eastern entrance has a ramp as well as stairs. Well connected by the Elizabeth line at each end.

Easy: 5km, flat terrain.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route