Woolwich & the Crayford Marshes

Overview

This is a train-assisted ride to south-east London. Most of the ride is traffic-free, along shared paths. There is approx. 5km on an unpaved track, which is stony & bumpy in places.
Our refreshment stop is at the end of the ride, so you will need to bring enough water & snacks to keep you going until then.

The Ride

We will take the Elizabeth Line to Woolwich, where we ride up to view the Thames Barrier, before heading out east along the riverside. The views are interesting rather than beautiful- old industrial buildings, such as the Crossness Pumping Station, new developments, and the return of nature.

After riding through Erith, we make our way onto the off-road track around Crayford Marshes. This offers a sense of remoteness and space, and has some interesting historic sights. We turn inland along the Darent River to reach Slade Green for refreshments in a local café and trains back home.

We expect to reach Slade Green by approx 1.30pm, to have time for refreshments before taking the train home.

Travel Arrangements

We will take the 09.37 train from Ealing Broadway to Woolwich, arriving at 10.16. If you prefer, you can join the train at Paddington (dep. 09.51) or other stations.

The ride ends at Slade Green. There are frequent South Eastern services to Abbey Wood (journey time 10 mins, regular fare £5, Senior Railcard discounts apply), where we connect with the Elizabeth Line.

Train-assisted ride from Woolwich, following the Thames east via Erith & the Crayford Marshes. Train back from Slade Green.

Nearly all traffic-free, on shared path alongside the Thames. Easy gradients. Off road track around Crayford Marshes, stony/bumpy for approx 5km.

Refreshment stop at Slade Green at the end of the ride. Bring enough water & snacks with you to keep you going.

Money/card for train fare & cafe. Lock for your bike.

First-timers welcome!