An 18 mile loop that begins by following the North Downs Way and then loops back through the trails surrounding Oxted and Westerham.
Starting Point
This loop starts and finishes in Knockholt. There's a train station in Knockholt but this is a few miles from the start point. Alternatively there's regular buses from Orpington Station or it's easy to park a car near the start or in one of the many carparks along the route.
Details for this route can be found here and you can download the GPX file to follow the route directly from your watch.
This route is mainly on trails.
Miles 1 - 5
The first five miles follow the North Downs Way which is very well signposted. The route starts by taking a footpath off of Sundridge Lane and passing across a few fields with views out to the left. This section is relatively flat and non-technical.
The fourth mile follows a quiet road called the Avenue and eventually the path comes out near a busier road. Run up this path towards Pitchfont Lane where you will see a car park at the top.
Miles 6 - 10
Mile 6 starts by running down Pitchfont Lane. Here the North Downs Way continues on the right, but don't take this route. Instead keep following the route down the hill, taking a right on Water Lane. This part of the route runs through some residential streets and then through Oxted Town Centre. It's the only part of the route on pavement and it's a good opportunity to stop at a local shop to refuel or get some more water. Mile 9 involves running up a relatively steep hill out of Oxted before turning right towards Limpsfield Chart Golf Course. Here take the trail directly ahead that leads through Limpsfield Common.
Mile 10 - 15
At mile 10 the fun begins again as the next few miles follow some lovely trails and pass through some woodland areas. The route passes near Lodges Wood and Tower Wood before reaching Westerham. Again this section is relatively flat and the paths are well marked out.
Mile 16 - 18
Prepare for a tough finish! Mile 16 features a tough uphill on Hogtrough Hill with a gradient of 17.5% at its steepest point.
Thankfully at the top of the hill the route joins back onto the North Downs Way as you retrace your steps for the final mile back to the starting point of the route.
This route is a stunning long run featuring trails, fields, woodland and quiet roads. The course has a total elevation of 1786ft over 18 miles, largely due to a steep incline at the end.
Remember to run safely - let somebody know where you are, choose a safe time of day to run and always take a phone. For more route inspiration follow me on Strava and keep up to date as I publish new routes by following me on instagram. Happy running! #happylegshappymind