Walks in the country near London

Aimed at both overseas visitors and Londoners keen to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this compact, easy-to-use guide describes in detail 25 country walks - all approximately an hour from Central London by train.

The walks explore the treasures that lie just beyond the city's borders, from easy rambles through Little Chart Forstal's apple orchards and lush pastures in Kent to more exhilarating rambles along Sharpenhoe Clappers' untamed chalk escarpments in Bedfordshire.

Christopher Somerville is the reader's personal guide, providing anecdotes as well as information on scenery and local history.

The walks are illustrated with colour photographs and complete maps, and details are given of addresses, opening times and pubs and restaurants to visit on the way.