Skip to content

Backpacking London

Explore backpacking groups and meet fellow adventurers

North Downs & Fields of Oaks (14 miles)

North Downs & Fields of Oaks (14 miles)

Sat, Jul 25, 8:45 AM
From FREE Outdoor Trips From London
4.8

Workers were planting lime trees in the village of Merstham when they came across buried swords. Dating from the Neolithic and better known since Thomas A Becket as the Pilgrims' Way, the "Harroway" Old English *hereweg* passes through Merstham. Whether in AD 851 this was the site of *Aclea,* "the field of oaks", is a debate contested by various places named Ockley. What is certain, is that troublesome Norsemen passed this way. This walk from Merstham follows their footsteps along the *hereweg*, through Gatton Park, where oaks grow. Then it's up onto the Downs for far reaching views and lunch by a mere pond. [Gatton Park – What’s on at Gatton Park](https://gattonpark.co.uk/) Outward Travel: Take the train departing 10 AM from London Bridge arrives at Merstham 10.31 AM. Buy a return ticket to MERSTHAM. The return train fare with a Network Card or GroupSave is £9.95. People gather outside the ticket office to arrange group tickets. Walk start: 10:35 AM from MERSTHAM rail station. Bring a packed lunch. Circular walk. *How to join?* * The walk is entirely free of charge; * You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses; * Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part); * Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself. See our quick safety tips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ *What to bring* * Plenty of water, 1-2 litres recommended * Enough snacks and packed lunch to keep you energized along the walk * Extra snacks and an extra packed lunch just in case * Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing, sturdy shoes/boots you don't mind getting muddy * Spare socks * Walking poles and/or an umbrella :-) * Yourself... * ...and your camera! * Cash for train ticket * Cash for pub at the end of the walk? Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section! IMPORTANT Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organized by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is no business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Despite this, we take extreme precautions and all trips we plan are very safe, fun, highly educational and popular. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone :-) By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer. Here are our tips on staying safe during outdoor trips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ TRAVEL, ACCOMMODATION, INSURANCE Although we provide detailed suggestions, each participant is expected to arrange their own travel - this gives everyone the freedom and choice. Anyone interested in travel or outdoor insurance should also arrange this on their own. As mentioned above we always take extreme precautions, but some people may still feel safer if covered. As most of our trips are confirmed or postponed very close to the event date - heavily depending on the weather forecasts - we advise not to buy this until the last minute. People getting tickets from the same station are encouraged to meet early on the day to benefit from discounts such as GroupSave.

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
81 attendees
Women's Solo Travel Social

Women's Solo Travel Social

Thu, Aug 6, 5:00 PM
From Solo Travel Social
4.8

**Join us for our first Women's Solo Travel Social.** Whether you’ve backpacked across Asia, taken solo city breaks around Europe, or are just planning your first independent trip, come meet like-minded people who enjoy exploring the world on their own terms. Expect good conversation, meeting fellow travel lovers, community, swapping stories, destination inspiration, travel tips, and share recommendations. For both newcomers and experienced solo travellers alike! Please feel free to bring friends!

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
39 attendees
Sept.4-9 Slovenia: Kranjska Gora, Vršič Pass, Bled, Gorges Waterfalls, Italy Day

Sept.4-9 Slovenia: Kranjska Gora, Vršič Pass, Bled, Gorges Waterfalls, Italy Day

Fri, Sep 4, 1:30 PM
From AAA Hiking & Outdoor Adventure
4.9

AAA has spent more than 13 years creating unforgettable experiences in beautiful Slovenia—a country we truly love. Over the years, our team has developed four unique events in four stunning locations, offering a variety of hiking and sightseeing options led by knowledgeable local guides. You may see our previous trip reviews [here](https://g.co/kgs/Ln9hmp) [Photos are here](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2030953820438232&type=3), [2025 photos](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1549852436456007&type=3) & below the event description. This trip is to one of our favourite destinations - **Kranjska Gora**, close to Austria & Italy, based at the **Spa Hotel**. **HIGHLIGHTS** * **Hiking in Triglav National Park** * **The Highest Slovenian Vršič Pass** * **Prisojnik Window & Ajdovska Deklica ('Heathen Maiden')** * **Martuljek & Peričnik waterfalls** * **Bled Lake & Vintgar Gorge** * **A Day in Italy - Fusine Lakes, Rifugio Zacchi hut** * **Choices of hikes every day** * **Walking on 100 + year-old mulatieras** * **Kranjska Gora resort, Jasna Lake** * **Hotel Špik with a Swimming Pool & Wellness Centre offering stunning views** **All questions to aaalondongroup@yahoo.co.uk** **Slovenia** is a unique and spectacular place to visit for a splendid hiking experience and sightseeing. **A pristine find in the middle of Europe!** Breathtaking scenery of mountains and valleys. Stunning emerald rivers, gorges and waterfalls. Fantastic and well-maintained hiking trails of all levels. Join in to see and enjoy the beauty of Slovenia! We are here to take care of you and make your journey exciting and unforgettable! **WHAT TO EXPECT** AAA has been hosting Hiking & Sightseeing events for over 17 years. [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AAALondonGroup/reviews) & [TripAdvisor ](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186338-d19994843-Reviews-AAA_Hiking_Outdoor_Group-London_England.html)\*\*\*\*\*Reviews. **HIKE GRADES** **There will be at least 2 experienced hike leaders, including a local guide.** This trip is designed for a range of hiking abilities, from novice to experienced. We can expect 1000 m of ascent, 17-20 km for the energetic/challenging group and 500-600 m of ascent, 14-16 km for the moderate group. We may hike up **Prisojnik Window 2314 m, Ciprnik 1746 m summit, Ponza Piccola Saddle 1842 m** for those willing to challenge themselves, weather permitting! The moderate group may summit **Slemenova Spica 1909 m** from the Vršič Pass, a 360-degree viewpoint, looking into Italy & Austria. **MORE INFO** We are building the website. Here's more info: [https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/european-events/slovenia-kranjska-gora-vrsic-pass-italy](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/european-events/slovenia-kranjska-gora-vrsic-pass-italy) **KIT LIST** [Check what kit is required](https://www.aaahiking.co.uk/kit-lists/hiking-kit-list-summer)[ ](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/kitlist)and more. **ACCOMMODATION** We will be based in a 3-star Hotel Špik for 5 nights and have day trips. The hotel features an extraordinary wellness and a swimming pool in a tranquil setting. **If you'd like a single room for £249 extra**, email aaalondongroup@yahoo.co.uk **LOCATION** **Kranjska Gora** is an alpine resort in northwestern Slovenia, near the mountains and glacial lakes of **Triglav National Park**. **The Vršič Pass**, with an elevation of 1,611 metres, is the pass across the Julian Alps in northwestern Slovenia. It is the highest pass in Slovenia as well as the highest in the Eastern Julian Alps. The steep mountain road features plenty of hiking trails, lodges & stunning views along the way. You may see the **magnificent Lake Jasna**, with mountainous landscapes of the Julian Alps and emerald waters. You will not mind the 50 sharp bends since the scenery is breathtaking. There are 2 waterfalls – the pearls of the Slovenian Alpine world under the Špik Mountain, right opposite our hotel Špik. **The Upper Martuljek Waterfall** is especially spectacular, as it descends in three levels over 110m of a vertical wall. **Peričnik Waterfall** is unique because you can walk behind it. We can not miss the **symbol of Slovenia - Lake Bled** and the Vintgar Gorge, where we can walk around and through. We will hike in **the Fusine Lakes** area in Italy, reaching the **Ponza Piccola** ridge bordering Slovenia, having this as a bonus to our trip. It has become a tradition to have lunch in Italy. [See photos here](https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1496563047210648&set=pcb.1496632123870407). **COST** **The price includes the following:** * **5 nights B&B in twin hotel rooms** * **3 buffet dinners** * **Choices of Guided Hikes by experienced hike leaders** * **Airport & all local transfers** * **Financial Consumer Protection according to Package Holidays and Tours Regulations 2018** * **Tourist Tax** **The price does not include the following:** * flights, lunches, and the Hotel Spa entrance * Alcoholic drinks and other incidentals **PRICE** The trip is **£729 per person.** **MAKE YOUR BOOKING** Click Attend and confirm your place with a deposit of £199 or in full, £729 to Name: **AAA LG Ltd** Account No.: **69543038** Sort Code: **60-09-02** Add Ref: **260904** (Please include your meetup profile name) Then email **aaalondongroup@yahoo.co.uk** to advise that your payment has been sent. The £530 balance is to be paid by 30.05.26. IMPORTANT NOTES If you have a question, [check out our FAQ page](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/frequently-asked-questions) Details for cancellations and selling your space can be found in the [Terms & Conditions](https://mailchi.mp/aaalondongroup.com/termsandconditions) **Transfers will be organised for the following Ryanair FLIGHTS:** Fri 04.09. 11:10 London Stansted - 14:15 Venice Marco Polo Wed 09.09. 15:00 Venice Marco Polo - 16:20 London Stansted There are many other flightsts available. You can arrive a day before, as an option. You will **need to be at the airport on 04.09. for the 14:30 pickup**. **Everyone in the group has to obtain appropriate travel insurance.** © AAA London Group Ltd 2026. Errors and Omissions Accepted.

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
34 attendees
HIKE 20km Chichester - Coastal paths, Estuaries, Bosham Village & Ferry ride

HIKE 20km Chichester - Coastal paths, Estuaries, Bosham Village & Ferry ride

Sat, Jul 25, 7:30 AM
From Outdooraholics London Hiking & Adventure Travel 25 to 49ish
4.8

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 12 miles (20km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 20m • Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours • Cost: £36 (includes guided hike + ferry + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the mid-afternoon stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Victoria station. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Victoria.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/VictoriaPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:30am, leave 8:50am for the 9:05am train • Return: 7:15pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Explore **Chichester Harbour** — a 3,700-hectare estuary and designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, teeming with wildlife • Take a **ferry ride across the historic Chichester Channel**, famously painted by J.M.W. Turner • Stroll through **Chichester Marina**, one of the South Coast’s most vibrant harbours with over 1,000 boats • Visit **Chichester**, an ancient Roman city fortified after AD 43 • Enjoy peaceful coastal scenery, wildflower meadows, and serene waterways 🥾 **Hike Description** Our adventure begins in the historic **Roman city of Chichester**, whose roots stretch back nearly 2,000 years. From here, we set out toward **Chichester Harbour**, the largest natural estuary in South East England and a protected wildlife sanctuary. The harbour’s expansive tidal waters and saltmarshes are alive with birdlife, making it one of the UK’s richest coastal habitats. We follow a scenic trail past the **Bosham Channel**, a picturesque stretch of water that has inspired painters, poets, and writers for centuries. Soon we reach the **Chichester Channel**, once used as a wartime shipping passage and immortalised in a painting by **J.M.W. Turner**. Here we cross by the traditional ferry, a unique highlight of the day and a chance to admire the waterway up close. Arriving in the old village of **West Itchenor**, our route continues to the bustling **Chichester Marina**, home to more than 1,000 boats and one of the South Coast’s most vibrant harbours. From here, our path meanders past ancient villages, coastal meadows, and historic sites before concluding with a refreshing visit to a local pub — the perfect way to end this coastal journey. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [BEA](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07345 241215 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
30 attendees
Lake District Hiking Camping Weekend Adventure Scafell Pike 10-12 miles total

Lake District Hiking Camping Weekend Adventure Scafell Pike 10-12 miles total

Sat, Jul 25, 7:00 AM
From Adventure Hiking
4.4

**Read Carefully to avoid any disappointment.** 3 Groups traveling to the Lake District on Friday. The Train Group departs London between **3 pm and 5 pm.** **1st Car Group departing in the morning. 2nd Car Group Departs London in the Afternoon.** **...............** **Lake District - Camping + Hiking. Scafell Pike. 10-12 miles - 3 SPACES are remaining.** **Lake District Camping & Hiking –** **Scafell Pike 10-12 miles. Highest Mountain Peak in the Lake District. Almost 980 meters high.** **Scafell Pike is the highest Mountain Peak in England.** **(2 Spaces Left!) 🚗🔥 Discount Available for drivers.** **WhatsApp** **07590 919391** **to secure final 2 seats.** **⚠️** **LAST SEAT AVAILABLE – small, friendly group (avg age 33, age range 19–49)** **✨ About This Adventure** Looking for an epic Weekend escape? Join us for a 2-day hiking & camping adventure in the breathtaking Lake District 🏞️ This is a fully organised, stress-free trip where you can just show up, relax, and enjoy the mountains, nature, and great company. 👉 **Only 2 seats left in the car – once it’s gone, it’s gone!** **🚗 Trip Details** 📍 Departure: Friday 5:00 PM (meet 4:30 PM, North London) 2 Cars Available. one car departs at 8.00 AM Friday Morning. 2nd Car Departs at around 4-5 pm Friday Evening. official Campsite booked. Looking for a third car. Train Group departs at 4 or 5 pm. 📍 Return: Sunday Evening \ \~9:00 to 10.00 PM 🏕️ **Camping:** Friday: Arrive at official campsite late in the evening and set up tents. 🌌 Sat & Sun: Official campsite (toilets + showers 🚿) 👥 Group: Small & social (currently 5 in their 20s) Space for 2 more. max group size 7. **🥾 What We’ll Do** 🔥 **Saturday** – Scafell Pike (Highest Peak) Short & scenic route from Great Langdale \~ 9 to 10 hours total. 10-12 miles total Hike. No heavy bags – everything stays at campsite ⛰️ **Sunday** – Helvellyn via Striding Edge One of the UK’s most iconic hikes 😍 \~7 hours (with breaks) if the weather forecast allows. If the weather forecast doesn't allow we will do a much easier hike somewhere local to allow an enjoyable experience and hike despite the weather forecast. Optional scrambling (alternative route available) if weather forecast doesn't allow. Drive back to London. should be back in London by 9 to 10 pm Approximately. 💸 Price: £295 (All-Inclusive) ✔️ All transport (London ↔ Lake District) ✔️ Campsite fees ✔️ Food & water 🍲 ✔️ Campfire experience 🔥 ✔️ Tents & air beds available if you book early. ✔️ Full trip planning & guidance. 👉 **🌟 Why You Should Join** ✅ Two of the most famous peaks in England. ✅ No planning stress – everything sorted for you. ✅ Friendly, like-minded group 👌 ✅ Perfect mix of adventure + relaxation. ✅ An unforgettable weekend in nature 🌄 **⚠️** Important Info **Moderate fitness required Waterproof hiking gear essential Good head for heights recommended (alternative routes available) 📲 Secure the FINAL Spot This trip is almost fully booked and we’re looking for 1 more person to complete the group. 👉 Message now on WhatsApp to secure your place: 📞** **07590 919391 \*\*\*\*** **🔥 Don’t Miss Out** **This is more than just a trip… it’s a memorable mountain adventure with great people.** **If you’ve been thinking about doing something exciting this weekend – this is your sign. 🌄✨** ....................,....... ............................ **Disclaimer:** **The organiser does not take responsibility for your safety or wellbeing during this hiking camping trip. Every individual is responsible for his or her own health and safety and wellbeing. You understand that your health insurance Is your responsibility and your travel insurance is your responsibility if anything goes wrong.** **By taking part you understand that the organiser is not held responsible for anything that may go wrong. This is a hobby group and not a commercial business. Most of our events are non-profit.** **We charge you what it costs us to make the logistics of the event possible. such as Car hire amd fuel for the car and Food and camping gear and tents and campsite rental. etc......** **The organiser is not held responsible for any changes in hiking routes due to bad weather conditions. Weather conditions can change drastically or suddenly without warning and so the hiking routes may have to be altered to take your health and safety into consideration.**

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
9 attendees
Hiking Jane Austin’s Box Hill in picturesque Surrey

Hiking Jane Austin’s Box Hill in picturesque Surrey

Sat, Jul 25, 8:10 AM
From GO London Hiking
4.8

**Join me for my final local hike before I move north to Liverpool to explore new trails and discover new paths (well… not exactly the final—I might still pop back for a few hikes from time to time! 😉).** **Hope you can make it—I’d love to share this last adventure with you!** Experience the superb Surrey Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, on our challenging Box Hill burner hike. Box Hill is an outstanding area of woodland and chalk downland, home to lots of wildlife and plants too, including the Adonis blue butterfly and bee orchid. It was also seen as a scenic spot for Victorian day trippers to escape the smoggy air of inner-city London. Commencing at Westhumble Station, this timeless trek unveils the splendor of Box Hill, offering awe-inspiring vistas of the picturesque Surrey countryside. Traverse the Mickleham Downs, venture through the scenic Headley Heath, and circle back to Box Hill before making a steep descent to the Mole River. As you approach the river, you'll encounter the iconic stepping stones that grace its waters, adding a touch of adventure to your journey. This hike promises a delightful blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and unforgettable panoramas, making it a must-visit for all nature enthusiasts and hikers seeking to immerse themselves in the wonders of Surrey's countryside. We will finish in a lovely pub, near the train station, a decent way to finish a hike! 🍺 **GRADE:** Intermediate 19km 650m ascent 5.40 walking time. hilly walk on good paths through woodland, heathland. **MEETING TIME:** 09:10 London Victoria Station, by the information booth near platform 12. **COST:** £12 organiser fee pay on RSVP **TRAINS:** London Victoria 09:41 train arriving at Box Hill Westhumble Station 10:37 journey time 56 mins. train tickets not included, Approx £10.5 group save (return ticket to Dorking station) **WALK STARTS:** 10:40 at Box Hill Westhumble Station **WALK FINISHES:** Approx 16:30 at Box Hill Westhumble Station **Hike leader**: Fofi 
















































































**What to bring**: pack lunch, snacks, drink, warm clothes, suitable clothing and hiking footwear. 
















































































**Kit list**: Click here http://www.meetup.com/GO-London/pages/Kit_List%27s/ 
















































































**Terms and conditions**: by signing up to a GO London event you agree with our terms and conditions and participation statement. You can click here https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XSic4Aj9VJguTQuiWrTd6I1A-EmvmQCqCHggB0omlX8/edit?usp=sharing 















To view our full calendar: https://www.meetup.com/GO-London/events/
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GoLondonAdventure/
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoLondonHiking/

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
17 attendees
430kMonthly events
calendar icon
60mMembers
people1 icon
4.5App store rating
appStore icon
200kGroups
people2 icon

Frequently asked questions

Meetup is a platform where you can find and join groups that share your interests. It's a great way to attend events, meet people, and engage in activities you love.

Simply search for hiking or backpacking groups in the London area on Meetup. You'll find a variety of events organized by local groups that you can join.

Joining groups on Meetup is typically free, but some events may require a nominal fee. Check each event's page for specific information.

Yes, you can join multiple groups that spark your interest. This allows you to participate in a wider array of events and meet diverse hikers.

To RSVP for a Meetup event, find the event on the group's page and use the RSVP button to confirm your attendance. This ensures organizers know how many people to expect.

Once you've joined a group, you can propose your own events. Engage with the group organizers and share your backpacking ideas.

Events are organized by group hosts or volunteers, not Meetup directly. This allows for a wide range of activities created by passionate individuals.

Frequency varies by group. Some organize weekly hikes, while others might plan less frequently. Checking the group's calendar can provide clarity.

Read event descriptions carefully and check past reviews. Participating actively in group discussions also helps set realistic expectations.

While Meetup houses countless groups, availability depends on local organizers. Some areas may offer limited options, reliant on community activity.

Most are, given the nature of backpacking, but occasional planning meetings might be indoors. Check each event summary for details.

Meetup focuses on group activities rather than one-on-one connections. To maximize meeting new partners, engage in group events frequently.

While many events occur within London's boundaries, some may explore nearby trails. Details are provided on each event's page.

By joining backpacking events, you interact with like-minded individuals. These shared experiences foster connections and friendships.

Quality varies as events are user-organized. Review event details and past attendee feedback for insight into the organization.