12 Polyramblers set off from Otford station and after the leader missed the turning (she was talking) they found the correct path and ascended fairly steeply up to the North Downs. After passing through the woods we were able to admire some beautiful views over the valley below. Later in the day we were able to see over to Canary Wharf. The sun came out in time for our picnic in a field fortunately devoid of cattle, despite the warning sign that animals could be present. We continued up and down through woods and Continue reading OTFORD CIRCULAR – SATURDAY 5 SEPTEMBER →

As the title suggests, this walk involved a number of ascents and descents in and out of the valleys to the west of Chesham.  At the station the ten walkers split into two groups with a leader each and we headed off.  Within five minutes Stuart’s group were no longer in sight, lost in the not very socially distanced Saturday market,  and phone calls were needed to re-establish contact.  Once on the right route we were soon out of the crowds and passing Bury Farm.  Then on a single track. country lane that had been quiet on the walkover Continue reading CHARTRIDGE HILLS AND VALES – 22 AUGUST →

On a rather muggy, grey day 12 Polys set off from Barnes Bridge station in two groups of six. The south Thames path was unusually quiet and there weren’t too many cyclists and joggers for once. The second group with Susan caught up with the first group lead by Danny at Hammersmith Bridge ( we later learnt that they had detoured to the Leg of Mutton reservoir). We passed  the Harrods Furniture Depository, now a residential complex, before reaching the boathouses at Putney. There was some discussion between a few of us as to which geese we were observing, Canada, Egyptian? The two groups caught up again and we stopped a moment opposite St. Mary’s Church where the Putney Debates on the English constitution were held in 1647, presided over by Oliver Cromwell. A few participants resisted the temptation of lunch at Wetherspoon’s and we all crossed the bridge and made our way, rigorously social distancing, through Bishop’s Park to Fulham Palace Gardens. There we were joined by another member who lives locally and was passing by. Oh dear! Now we were 6+6+1!  Continue reading BARNES BRIDGE CIRCULAR SATURDAY 15 AUGUST →

Six Polys arrived in Downe by various means.  The most privileged being Melida who was chauffeured by her daughter.

We set off from Downe going past the unseasonably named Xmas Tree Farm and on through Downe Bank nature reserve. The walk had a quite variable in terrain with a mixture of undulating meadows and woods.  We continued to our picnic stop at the 11th century Knockholt church being constantly buzzed by two Spitfires flying out from the nearby Biggin Hill aerodrome. Continue reading DOWNE CIRCULAR – SATURDAY 8 AUGUST →

A perfect day for walking last Sunday when ten Poly Ramblers gathered (in a socially distanced way) at Wendover station.  Hilary split us into two groups and we set off with Rochelle’s group following a short distance behind.  A gentle climb up Coombe Hill rewarded us with great views over the Vale of Aylesbury. We paused at the Boer War monument at the top and we noted that the dates referred to the second Boer War which featured in the previous Continue reading WENDOVER CIRCULAR – 2 AUGUST →