The Lower Wogebourne Walk

The Lower Wogebourne Walk
An exploration of the Thamesmead marshes

This is a chance to explore the history of the Thamesmead marshes. We will journey through time as we explore the landscape from the end of the last ice-age to the modern new town that it is today.

The walk is offered in two parts, giving you the flexibility to join for one section or immerse yourself in the full journey:

Part Two: Southmere Circular to Crossness
📍 Southmere SE2 9FA 13:00pm → Crossness → Southmere SE2 9FA 16:00pm
📏 Approx. 5.5 miles
From Southmere, we trace the river’s lower reaches towards the Thames, exploring the natural marshes to Crossness before returning along man-made canals via a circular route.

An earlier walk will proceed this one. You are welcome to book onto either part individually or join for the full day for a discounted price:

Part One: Source to Southmere
📍 Oxleas Woods SE18 3JA 9:30am → Southmere SE2 9FA 12:30pm
📏 Approx. 6 miles
We begin near Oxleas Café, in ancient woodland, walking through an increasingly urban landscape which ends at South Mere, in Southmere Park.

✨ Who this is for:
These walks are open to anyone with a reasonable level of fitness who enjoys walking at a steady, sociable pace (at least 2miles per hour). Whether you’re drawn to the hidden story of London’s rivers, the wellbeing benefits of time outdoors, or simply good company, you’ll be very welcome.

✨ What to expect:

• A friendly, guided group walk
• Time to notice and connect with the landscape
• A mix of woodland paths, urban walking and open spaces
• Gentle pauses along the way (this isn’t a rushed hike)

✨ Important information:

• Please wear suitable footwear and clothing for the weather
• Bring water and snacks (and lunch if joining both parts)
• Free parking at Bazalgette Way for the start and end of this part, or at Oxleas Woods cafe for the start of the earlier walk (closes at 8pm)
• All start and end points are accessible via the 244 bus

Come and discover the Wogebourne—often overlooked, but full of quiet character—on a walk that follows its entire journey.

By booking a session with Katie Smith, you confirm that:

You agree to the full Terms & Conditions (available on request and summarised below)

• You take part at your own risk and are responsible for your own wellbeing
• You will follow guidance given during the session
• You will come appropriately dressed and prepared for the outdoors
• You will inform me in advance of any relevant health conditions or access needs (7 days where possible)
• You understand the 48-hour cancellation policy
• If bringing a dog (walks only), you will keep it under control
• If attending with someone under 18, you accept full responsibility for them throughout

These sessions are designed to be supportive, relaxed, and enjoyable—thank you for helping create a safe and welcoming space for everyone. By booking and/or attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms & Conditions and Disclaimer.

Info: Oxleas Woods → Southmere
Approx. 6 miles, predominantly downhill
We begin at Oxleas Café atop Shooters Hill. Before tracing the river’s route down to South Mere, in Southmere Park. Walking through ancient woodland which becomes increasingly more urban. We will not just follow the rivers physical journey, but will travel through time to it's modern destination.

Info: Southmere → Crossness → Approx. 5.5 miles
From Southmere, we trace the river’s lower reaches towards the Thames, exploring the natural marshes to Crossness before returning along man-made canals via a circular route.

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