Green Chain Walk — a hidden gem of South East London that offers nature, history, and even a touch of mystery.
Green Chain Walk: London’s Secret Path Through Nature and History
For travelers staying at NX London Hostel, the Green Chain Walk is a perfect escape from the city’s hustle. This 50+ mile network of trails winds through parks, woodlands, and historic landmarks in South East London, offering a tranquil and scenic adventure that’s both free and full of surprises.
Historic Significance
Established in 1977 by four London boroughs and the Greater London Council, the Green Chain Walk was designed to protect over 300 open spaces from urban development. It stretches from the Thames Barrier and Thamesmead to Crystal Palace Park and Nunhead Cemetery, connecting a diverse range of landscapes and communities. [en.wikipedia.org]
The walk is divided into 11 main sections, each offering a unique experience — from ancient woodlands to Victorian follies and Art Deco palaces.
Things to Do and See
- Lesnes Abbey Ruins: Explore the remains of a 12th-century abbey in Abbey Wood.
- Oxleas Woods & Severndroog Castle: Enjoy panoramic views and visit a Gothic-style tower.
- Eltham Palace: A stunning blend of medieval and Art Deco architecture.
- Crystal Palace Park: Home to the famous Victorian dinosaur statues.
- Nunhead Cemetery: One of London’s “Magnificent Seven” cemeteries, rich in history and atmosphere.
- Shooters Hill & One Tree Hill: Scenic viewpoints with historical significance. [tfl.gov.uk], [londonxlondon.com]
Each section is well-marked with Green Chain Walk signs, making navigation easy even for first-time visitors.
Where to Eat and Drink Nearby
While the walk itself is mostly through green spaces, nearby neighborhoods offer great dining options:
- Eltham: Try The GPO for British pub fare or Eltham GPO Café for brunch.
- Crystal Palace: Enjoy pizza at Four Hundred Rabbits or coffee at Brown & Green Café.
- Greenwich: Visit Heap’s Sausages or The Green Café for a quick bite.
A Touch of Mystery
Though not officially haunted, parts of the Green Chain Walk — especially Elmstead Woods — have inspired eerie tales. One walker described a “Wiccan-like mound of sticks” and a “giddy sense of disorientation” in the forest, likening it to a scene from The Wizard of Oz. While no confirmed hauntings exist, the dense woods and quiet paths certainly lend themselves to spooky speculation. [travelmag.com]
Location & Access Info
Start Points: Thames Barrier, Thamesmead, Erith
End Points: Crystal Palace Park, Nunhead Cemetery
Opening Hours: Open year-round
Tickets: Free access — no ticket required [walklondon.org.uk]
You can download maps and guides from Transport for London’s Green Chain Walk page or use the Go Jauntly app for interactive navigation. [tfl.gov.uk]
How to Get There from NX London Hostel
NX London Hostel Address: 323A New Cross Road, London SE14 6AS
To Start at Crystal Palace Park (Section 10 or 11):
- Walk to New Cross Gate Station (5 mins).
- Take Overground to Crystal Palace Station.
- Walk to the park entrance (5–10 mins).
Total travel time: ~35 minutes
Estimated cost: £2.80 with Oyster/contactless
Key Takeaways
- The Green Chain Walk offers over 50 miles of scenic trails through South East London’s parks and historic landmarks.
- Established in 1977, it connects diverse open spaces, promoting nature conservation and urban escape.
- Key attractions include Lesnes Abbey, Eltham Palace, and Crystal Palace Park with its famous dinosaur statues.
- The walk is well marked and accessible year-round, requiring no tickets for entry.
- Nearby dining options include The GPO and Four Hundred Rabbits, perfect after a day of exploring the Green Chain Walk.
Final Thoughts
The Green Chain Walk is a perfect blend of nature, history, and urban exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller, this hostel Londres day trip offers something for everyone. From ancient abbeys to dinosaur statues and panoramic views, it’s a journey through London’s lesser-known treasures.
