The Wandle trail is a path along the Wandle Valley from Croydon to Wandsworth following the river Wandle.  This river was a hub of industrial mills and printing with William Morris and Liberty owning factories on its banks.

We chose to start our 7.5 mile hike at Earlsfield and walk to Carshalton Ponds, avoiding some of the less salubrious parts. For the first hike of the new year, 20 hikers started out enjoying the mild (for this time of the year) weather with no indication of rain.  Being a cycle and walking trail, the going was good, with only one part being a bit muddy.  The route had many parts which were wooded with water fowl and it was easy to imagine we weren’t in London.

We crossed the Croydon Tram before stopping for lunch at Morden Hall Park, a National Trust property with good facilities.  At this point 3 members chose to cut it short and alighted the Tram. 

The rest of us negotiated the upper reaches of the Wandle which were equally tranquil, only having to negotiate the fishermen (a good sign the river is in good condition).  After arriving at Carshalton Ponds (one of the sources of the Wandle), we the made our way to Carshalton Station with its frequent trains to London Bridge and Victoria.

In hindsight we were lucky and just missed the stormy weather which arrived that evening once safely home. 

Stephen

Photos by Ida and Stephen