Route Developer Robert Scales
Starting from Sydenham Gardens, 28a Wynell Road, SE23 2LW London
[1] On leaving Sydenham Gardens, turn right to the corner of Wynett Road, then continue straight ahead down a path marked by bollards. At the junction with Pearfield Road continue straight ahead down a path signed “Shaw’s Cottages”. Cross Perry Vale where it is safe to do so, and aim to continue straight ahead down the right pavement of Garlies Road, continuing right ahead down Houston Road.
[2] At its end with the junction with Perry Hill turn right. Pass the junction with Winsford Road opposite to cross Perry Hill: there are low kerbs and a small central refuge. Go left to the junction with Winsford Road and go down it.
[3] Cross the quiet Selworthy Road and go right down it. By a blue cycle signpost to Bellingham enter a green space. Those with small children may wish to use the playground in front. Past that follow the path straight ahead to a sign reading “Riverview Walk”. Turn right along the Walk. Take care in doing so: the path is shared with cyclists.
(A) The Riverview Walk is a linear walk along the Pool River. This river rises between Shirley and West Wickham and flows 3 miles to join the Ravensbourne at Catford. It is a habitat for kingfishers, little grebes, water rails, snipe, teal, Daubenton’s bats and pipistrelles.
[4] The path rises to cross a bridge. At the top, follow the sign across the bridge indicating Lower Sydenham to the path’s end at Stanton Way opposite the Railway Tavern.
[5] Turn right along the pavement, crossing the service roads to the retail park at the pedestrian lights. Follow the pavement right along South End Road, noting the iconic gasholders. Opposite the Bell pub, cross Perry Hill at the pedestrian lights and turn right along it past the bus-stop.
[6] At a horse-trough, turn left along a pedestrian path with black cycle barriers at intervals. At its end by St. Michael’s Primary School, cross Champion Road (unsigned)-there are kerb ramps-and turn right.
[7] At Adamsrill Road turn left and cross- there are kerb ramps again. Continue left to Fairwyn Road and turn right up that. At its top, cross De Frene Road – there are low kerbs- and turn left.
[8] At Mayow Road turn right, crossing Queenswood Road, and continue to Wynett Road. Turn right into that to regain Sydenham Gardens.