Founded in 2002 and specialising in short walks, the group flourishes and now boasts a membership of over one hundred members.

One of our founder members saw an article in the Rambler magazine (now ‘Walk’) that permission had been given to start up ‘Friends’ groups countrywide. In January 2002, a meeting was held, and it was agreed that the group should promote short, easy walks.

The Inaugural Walk on Saturday 16th February 2002, from Chingford Station to The Owl pub for coffee, was attended by 51 people! This event is celebrated every year with our Anniversary Walk in the Walthamstow Wetlands where, for our 20th Anniversary, we donated a bench on behalf of the group.

From the beginning, Lea Valley Friends has run walks in both the Lea Valley and in London. In more recent times, the emphasis has shifted towards London, where the majority of our walks now take place. We upload a pictorial record of our walks on Facebook to enable those not able to do a particular walk to stay in touch.

We look forward to welcoming our existing and new members on one of our Walks of Discovery.