An even better version of the already brilliant Waterlink Way (NCN 21) from South Norwood Country Park to Greenwich Riverside.

Mostly follows the official route, but uses Maberley Fields and Churchfield Rec instead of Beck Lane which is a bit of a rat run.

If you're a stickler for the letter of the law - you are supposed turn left along Beckenham Road and follow the signposted route via Kent House Station. My view is that the official route at this point was dreamt up by some cycle-hating Tory years ago - there is a perfectly good path running north from Thayers Farm Road - signposted "no cycling", but it won't cause any problems if you are considerate. Much more direct, less fiddly and, frankly, despite what the law says it's actually _more_ considerate to pedestrians: the official route takes you through the middle of a sometimes busy commuter station.

Be careful crossing Southend Lane and crossing over the railway bridge at Ladywell. You don't have to deal with the nightmare that is Catford's road system: turn right just before you hit the south circular, follow the cycle path down the slope to the station and you go under all the roads in an underpass.

EDIT Feb 2021: Took out the "Curly Wurly" bridge at Ladywell Fields (It's a fun way to practice your riding skills when not too busy), as this means you don't have to cross _back_ over the railway on the main road at Ladywell itself.

This does, however, mean you miss out on the glorious Ten Thousand Hands cafe in Ladywell Fields, run by the Mizen Foundation charity. Which is well worth the detour as a coffee and cake stop. If you're riding with small children and want to avoid the main road, hop over the Curly Wurly, cycle up to the cafe and back down to the Curly Wurly before continuing north.