Capital Ring Guided Section

The London Walking Network leads guided walks along Capital Ring, a 78-mile walking circuit around London. This section covers the Dollis Hill to South Kenton stretch, roughly 5 miles, with expert commentary on local history, green spaces, and urban design. Walkers learn map reading and follow OS routes. The pace is steady and the terrain mixed with parks, streets, and canal towpath. Best for serious walkers and map enthusiasts. This is a moderate activity lasting 3.5 hours. Group size: max 25. You meet at Dollis Hill tube station. Key highlights: 5-mile section of London's 78-mile Capital Ring circuit, Expert guide teaches map-reading and OS symbols, Mix of urban parks, farmland, industrial heritage, and canal.

Price: £12

Duration: 3.5 hours

Difficulty: moderate

Group size: max 25

Minimum age: 12+

Best for: serious walkers and map enthusiasts

Best time: Spring (April–May) for clear views and new growth. Autumn (Sept–Oct) for colour and comfortable pace. Avoid peak summer heat on exposed sections. Winter offers shorter shadows for photography but fewer walkers.

Meeting point: Dollis Hill tube station

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

10:00am Meet outside Dollis Hill tube, receive route map, briefing on OS symbols - Guide explains the day's 5-mile itinerary and discusses map-reading basics.

First 45 min Walk through Dollis Hill Park and onto green corridor towards Horsenden - Discuss the park's history as part of London's green belt and Victorian design.

90 min–2 hrs Cross Horsenden Hill, farmland, and industrial heritage routes - Guide points out old mills, railway remnants, and views across the valley.

2–3 hrs Walk along canal towpath with lock gates and water management history - Learn about Grand Union Canal's role in London's industrial past.

Final 30 min Approach South Kenton station, review the walk, discuss next Capital Ring sections - Guide suggests linking walks and recommends other sections of the 78-mile circuit.

The whole experience takes 3.5 hours. Difficulty: moderate. You meet at Dollis Hill tube station.

• 5-mile section of London's 78-mile Capital Ring circuit
• Expert guide teaches map-reading and OS symbols
• Mix of urban parks, farmland, industrial heritage, and canal
• Views across north-west London valleys
• Access to sections most solo walkers skip

What is included: Guided walk with trained leader, Route map and OS guidance, Historical and geographical commentary, Introduction to Capital Ring circuit, Directions to next sections.

Not included: Personal OS map (guide provides route but own map useful), Refreshments or packed lunch, Transport to/from tube stations. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Waterproof jacket and trousers, Walking boots with good grip, Rucksack for layers (removable in warm weather), Water bottle (2L minimum for 3.5 hrs), Snacks (energy bars, nuts), OS map SE4 or Landranger 176 if you own one, Sun protection. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Spring (April–May) for clear views and new growth. Autumn (Sept–Oct) for colour and comfortable pace. Avoid peak summer heat on exposed sections. Winter offers shorter shadows for photography but fewer walkers..

Tip: Bring OS map if you have one

Tip: Wear walking boots

Accessibility: Moderate fitness required: 5 miles of mixed terrain with some hills. Paths include steps, canal towpath, and uneven ground. Not suitable for buggies or mobility scooters. Wheelchair users should contact guide in advance to discuss suitability..

Operator: London Walking Network | Book directly (opens in new tab)

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Fryent Country Park (20 min walk)
• Gladstone Park (30 min walk)

This activity is run by London Walking Network.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 48 hours before. Non-refundable within 48 hours. Walks run rain or shine unless severe weather..

Accessibility: Moderate fitness required: 5 miles of mixed terrain with some hills. Paths include steps, canal towpath, and uneven ground. Not suitable for buggies or mobility scooters. Wheelchair users should contact guide in advance to discuss suitability..

Best time to go: Spring (April–May) for clear views and new growth. Autumn (Sept–Oct) for colour and comfortable pace. Avoid peak summer heat on exposed sections. Winter offers shorter shadows for photography but fewer walkers..

What's the Capital Ring, and how does this walk fit into it?

Capital Ring is a 78-mile waymarked walking circuit around London's outer suburbs, crossing 20 parks and green spaces. This Dollis Hill to South Kenton section covers roughly 5 miles and shows walkers how to navigate Capital Ring using OS maps. You can walk sections solo after this guided introduction, following the red-and-blue Capital Ring signs.

Do I need an OS map, and which one covers this route?

The guide provides route directions, but having your own OS map is very helpful. Landranger 176 (West London) or Landranger 177 covers this section. Buy from outdoor shops, download from Ordnance Survey, or bring your phone with the OS Maps app (subscription required). Learning to read OS maps is part of the walk's value.

Is this walk suitable for someone who's never used an OS map before?

Yes. The guide teaches OS map symbols and how to orient yourself during the walk. Bring a map (the guide will have one) and the guide will show you landmark-to-landmark navigation. By the end, most walkers feel confident following Capital Ring solo or joining other sections.