Coulsdon, Chaldon, Happy Valley
12 walkers met at Coulsdon south with worried looks and murmurs about rain forecasts etc. But faces cleared when faced with the unexoected delights of Happy Valley
There was very little suburban crud to plod through around Coulsdon South, and we had acres of sublime bluebell woods and steep hillsides of cowslips to walk through for much of the day. Then there was added history and culture, in the form of the 11th century church of Ss Peter and Paul in Chaldon, with a huge and well-preserved 12th century mural of Judgement Day, and the former psychiatric community at Netherne-on-the-Hill, with an ornate water-tower, and the old chapel converted into a swimming-pool and wellness centre.The weather was much better than expected, and lunch at The Fox at Coulsdon Common was exceptionally good. A gastro-pub that 'vaut le voyage'!
Outward: train to Reigate from Victoria 9.38, Clapham Junction 9.45 direct to Coulsdon South arrives 10.05am. Return regular trains from Coulsdon South
The Fox Coulsden common
This is a circular walk taking in a variety of countryside from broad open views to wandering through small woods. Many interesting features such as Saxon burial mounds, a Medieval church, an eerie village, multiple larks ascending and banks of cowslips and nodding violets. Some steep ups and downs (good training for the may w/e), can be muddy in places and 2 sticks are very helpful. Only 3 stiles.