The best walks and hikes around the London Borough Of Lewisham

Yes, there are plenty of circular routes. A great option for a shorter walk is the John Logie Baird Blue Plaque – Sydenham Hill Folly loop from Upper Sydenham. This trail explores the historic Sydenham Hill area, including a folly and a blue plaque commemorating the inventor of television.

For a family outing, look for flatter routes within the borough's parks. The paths through Ladywell Fields are ideal, following the River Ravensbourne. Beckenham Place Park also offers numerous easy trails, with a lake and mansion to explore, making it engaging for all ages.

Most parks and open spaces in Lewisham, such as Blackheath and Hilly Fields, are dog-friendly. The Waterlink Way is also a popular choice for dog walkers. However, always check local signage, especially in designated nature reserves like Sydenham Hill Wood, where dogs may need to be kept on a lead to protect wildlife.

While much of Lewisham is relatively flat, you can find some more strenuous climbs. For a route with significant elevation, consider the Greenwich Park, Shooters Hill & Eltham Palace loop. This long and difficult hike takes you up Shooters Hill, one of the highest points in South London, offering rewarding views.

The Waterlink Way is a popular 8-mile (12km) walking and cycling route that connects several of Lewisham's parks and green spaces. It largely follows the Pool and Ravensbourne rivers, offering a flat and accessible path from Sydenham down to the Thames at Greenwich.

Many routes pass by or end near traditional pubs. A walk around Blackheath can easily be combined with a visit to one of the many pubs surrounding the heath. Similarly, a walk starting or ending in Deptford, such as The Old Royal Naval College – Cutty Sark loop from Deptford Bridge, offers plenty of historic pubs to choose from for a post-hike refreshment.

Lewisham is very well-connected by public transport. Most trailheads are accessible via National Rail, Overground, or DLR stations. For example, Hilly Fields is a short walk from Ladywell or Brockley stations, and Blackheath has its own station right on the heath, making it an excellent starting point for many walks.

Lewisham offers a surprising variety of scenery. You'll find tranquil riverside paths along the Ravensbourne and Pool rivers, ancient woodland in places like Sydenham Hill Wood, and wide-open spaces at Blackheath. For panoramic views of the London skyline, the best spot is Hilly Fields, a popular park with a stone circle at its summit.

Yes, many walks incorporate local history. A great example is the Cutty Sark – The Old Royal Naval College loop from Deptford, which takes you through the maritime heart of Greenwich, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll pass iconic landmarks like the Cutty Sark and the Old Royal Naval College.

The trails around Lewisham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of peaceful green corridors within an urban setting, the well-maintained park paths, and the surprising pockets of ancient woodland.

There are over 150 hiking routes to explore around the London Borough of Lewisham. These range from short, easy strolls in local parks to more demanding long-distance paths that connect multiple green spaces across the borough.

The South East London Green Chain is a network of linked footpaths connecting over 300 green spaces. Several sections run through Lewisham, allowing for longer walks that can take you from places like Beckenham Place Park into neighbouring boroughs. It's a great way to explore the wider landscape of South London on foot.