Riddlesdown to Coulsdon
A station-to-station walkSurreySouth East England
Chalk grassland and downland through the South London Downs National Nature Reserve, with wildflowers, rare orchids and sweeping views toward London and Surrey.
Woodland: a fifth under tree cover.
Riddlesdown Common: Open chalk downland common managed by the City of London Corporation.
Riddlesdown Quarry: Disused 17th-century chalk quarry, now a wildlife haven.
Kenley Airfield: Former RAF station and key Battle of Britain fighter base, now a scheduled monument.
Kenley Common: Open common bordering the former airfield.
Coulsdon Common: Chalk grassland common.
Happy Valley: Scenic dry chalk valley rich in wildflowers and butterflies.
Devilsden Wood: Ancient woodland on the side of Happy Valley.
Farthing Downs: Open chalk downland with views over the North Downs.
2 lunch spots: the Wattenden Arms (cosy pub near Kenley Airfield serving Sunday roasts and breakfasts), or the Fox
Warnings: Steep stepped descent to Whyteleafe and a sharp incline up to Kenley Airfield; railway footbridge at Stumps Lane is tucked behind a garage off the A22.
Credits
Walk details: Walking Post (tips, photos and local insights).
Similar walk: the Saturday Walkers Club.