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Over 100 walks exploring countryside, coast and towns

May to June 2009 North Walking Festival 2009

It's time to get out and explore the great outdoors and enjoy some fresh air and fantastic views and find out more about the amazing variety of places to visit in north Kent. There's lots to discover on your doorstep.

This year's festival builds on the success of events in previous years, and has expanded to cover the whole of north Kent, from to . The walking festival has linked to the Heritage Festival in late May, so there are six weeks of walks to enjoy. There are over a hundred walks to choose from, starting in mid May and leading up to the end of June. There are a couple of extra ones squeezed into July too.

With guided walks exploring our north Kent towns, coast and countryside, there is something for everyone. You may like to join a guided walk learning about the history of the area (in some cases with costumed walks leaders too). There are walks introducing people to the area's wildlife and landscapes. Walks are a great and economical way to get some exercise and socialise at the same time.

The walking festival is delivered by many organisations and groups that want to share in celebrating the great heritage and environment that we have in north Kent. It has been sup- ported this year by Greening the Gateway Kent and , an initiative to promote and improve the quality of the environment for people and wildlife in north Kent.

How to book Unless otherwise stated, all places need to be booked in advance, as spaces on many walks are limited.

Please do not turn up on the day unless you have pre-booked, as you may be turned away. Booking will close 24 hours before the event.

Bookings can be made via:

Capstone Farm Country Park, Capstone Road, Gillingham, Kent ME7 3JG Email: [email protected]. Tel: 01634 338191 (Office open between 10am and 4.30pm)

Choosing your walk Key to symbols Walk leader’s Access Limited Break Drink/snack specialist for all mobility during walk at end knowledge Escorted Dogs Suitable for Healthy older welcome pushchairs exercise children What you History Countryside Easy walk can see... Medium difficulty Wildlife Views Built Strenuous walk environment

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p652 28/04/2009, 14:41 Advice to walkers

There is a wide range of walks in the festival, suitable for different interests and abilities. Please use the information provided to judge what suits you best. This includes thinking about the distance that you are comfortable walking. You may also like to decide if you are looking for a walk where you learn lots about the area's history or wildlife, or simply want to enjoy some fresh air and a chance to meet other people.

You are welcome to bring your dog on those walks that display the appropriate symbol. Dogs must be kept on a lead and under control at all times. Please ensure that when you book, you indicate that you will be bringing your dog.

Some of the walks have been designed to be suitable for people in wheelchairs, or children in pushchairs. These are noted in the summary information for the walk, but you are advised when booking to ask for further information on the route and ground conditions of the walk.

Please make sure that you come dressed with appropriate footwear and clothing for the walk. Waterproofs and walking boots are recommended for all guided walks and rambles. You are advised to bring a bottle of water, and on sunny days, sun cream and a hat.

Some of the walks will have breaks for snacks and drinks that you have brought with you, or a stop where you may buy some food and drink in a local café or pub. Several walks give the chance for you to enjoy a drink or meal at the end of the ramble.

On rare occasions, bad weather may affect an event, but the leader will always be at the starting point to advise of any changes.

Travel

Parking is available at, or close to, the starting point for the walks. Further details are available on the Walking Festival website at: www.medway.gov.uk.

We have tried to make a number of the walks easy to reach by public transport, but this has not always been possible. You can get more information on how to join the walks using public transport in the following ways:

For bus and coach information use www.travelinesoutheast.org.uk, www.transportdirect.co.uk or call Traveline on 0871 200 2233.

For travel in Medway, you can find details of all bus timetables on the council website at: http:/ /www.medway.gov.uk/publictransport

For travel in Dartford, Gravesham and Swale areas, you can find details of timetables on the Kent County Council website: http://www.kent.gov.uk/transport-and-streets/public-transport/ planning-your-journey.htm

For trains use the Southeastern website (www.southeasternrailway.co.uk) or UK Railways on the Net (www.rail.co.uk). Both these sites give information about service disruptions. You can also get information from National Rail Enquiries on 0845 748 4950.

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Discover Gravesham - walks organised as part of the Gravesham Heritage Festival

WALK Sunday 17 May, 2.30pm and Milton Cemetery. Also learn 1 Guided Historical Walk about its origin as the Victoria Gardens, of Swanscombe a place of entertainment and a prospective tourist attraction. The Join our experienced tour guide venue is the grade II listed chapel Christoph Bull, and discover the formally the concert hall of the gardens. fascinating history of Swanscombe An experienced historian will then guide including information about the visitors on a walk around the grounds industrial revolution, pre-historic which are on the English Heritage human remains, town development as Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. well as more up-to-date information. This humorous tour allows visitors a Location: Meet inside cemetery gates, glimpse into past lives. Old Road West, £2 booking fee per person Location: Meet at George and Dragon Places are limited – booking is essential Public House, corner of High Street, via Gravesend Tourist Office Swanscombe (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 Free, no need to book Please note that walking is involved – A fair amount of walking is involved – suitable clothing and footwear is suitable clothing and footwear is required. required. Tuesday 19 May Monday 18 May, WALK WALK Naughty Nuns and 2 2–4pm and 6–8pm 3 Tour of Gravesend Nightingales Coach Tour Cemetery Join the Little Owl Tour Company on a visit to discover the tale of the naughty Listen to a local research group nuns and hear nightingales sing before explaining the history of Gravesend finishing at a country pub for a walking cover:Layout 1 24/4/09 11:52 Page 5

www.towncentric.co.uk/heritagefestival

refreshing drink. The tour includes all WALK Wednesday 20 May, transport, light refreshments and a 2-3 5 10.30am–12.30pm hour guided walk across the North Jeskyns Discovery Walk Kent Marshes. Join the Ranger on a guided walk of this new 360 acre Community Location/Pick up times: The Hill, Woodland. Discover how the Forestry Northfleet - 10.00am; Arriva bus Commission has taken inspiration station - 10.05am; Milton Road BP from the past to transform this former Garage - 10.10am; Dickens Road, arable farm into a public space with Gravesend - 10.15am. Drop off: new woodlands, traditional style between 4.00pm and 4.30pm orchards and wildflower meadows. £20 per person For more details and booking please Location: Meet at Jeskyns Community call Carol Donaldson on 07588 Woodland, Cobham 727510. £2 booking fee per person Please bring a packed lunch and Places are limited – booking is suitable clothing including strong essential via Gravesend Tourist Office walking shoes. Walk is mainly flat but (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 includes a number of stiles. Suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, dogs welcome but owners WALK Tuesday 19 May, asked to keep under control, children 4 10.30am–1pm must be accompanied by an adult. Historical Walk from There are no toilets on the site. Denton Take in many aspects of river and riverside history, including forgotten ancient inhabited marshland, a murder, naval mutineers, an embarkation hard for D-day, Shornemead Fort and much more.

Location: Meet at Riverside path outside Ship and Lobster, Denton £4 adult, £2.50 child/seniors Places are limited – booking is essential via Gravesend Tourist Office (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 There is a lot of walking and some uneven and possibly slippery and muddy surfaces.

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Gravesham walks

WALK Thursday 21 May, Location: Meet at War Memorial, by 6 10am–12noon entrance to Lodge Lane, Cobham. General Gordon Walk Free. Places are limited – booking is Join local Historian Tony Larkin on his essential via Gravesend Tourist Office tour of the town centre, which will also (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 cover the life and influence of General Path may be muddy so suitable Gordon in Gravesend. footwear should be worn. Some steep slopes - not suitable for pushchairs or Location: Meet at Towncentric, Tourist those with limited mobility. Information Centre, 18a St George’s Square, Gravesend. WALK Sunday 24 May, 4pm £4.00 adult, £2.50 child/seniors 9 Tour of Meopham Places are limited – booking is Valley Vineyard essential via Gravesend Tourist Office Enjoy a guided tour of this local (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 organic vineyard, tasting different Please note that a fair amount of wines along the way. The two hectare walking is involved - suitable clothing vineyard grows a substantial range of and footwear is required. grapes and makes white, red, rosé and sparkling wines as well as grape juice. WALK Friday 22 May, 10am 7 Thames and Medway Location: Meet at Norway House, Guided Walk Wrotham Road, Meopham, The guided walk leads you to Mark £2 booking fee per person Lane, swing bridge No. 5, footpath to Places are limited – booking is the sea wall and essential via Gravesend Tourist Office returning to the Ship and Lobster (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 pub (optional short break) and then Please note that it is a long walk on Gravesend Basin. uneven ground. Suitable footwear should be worn. Not suitable for Location: Meet at Gravesend Basin / people with walking difficulties. Marina, Denton Free, no need to book. Not suitable for people with walking difficulties.

WALK Saturday 23 May, 11am 8 Cobham Park Enjoy a walk around Cobham Park, discovering the historic parkland and the restored Darnley Mausoleum. There’s an opportunity to relax at the end in an historic pub in Cobham. walking cover:Layout 1 24/4/09 11:52 Page 7

www.towncentric.co.uk/heritagefestival

WALK Sunday 24 May, 2.30pm Costumed characters will reveal the 10 Guided Walk around park’s history on a guided walk Chalk Village through time. After the walk, refreshments will be provided in the Join local historian, Christoph Bull on Visitor Centre & children can make a a walk around his home village. historic artefact to take home. You will learn about Charles Dickens, the social history of the village Location: Meet at Woods and the struggle to keep its identity. Country Park, Shorne Refreshments are served at Chalk £5 per person, £18.00 family ticket Parish Hall afterwards. (4 people, max of 3 children). Places are limited – booking is Location: Meet at Corner of Dering essential via Gravesend Tourist Office Way, Chalk (nr Kwik Fit garage), (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 £3 per person and payable on the day, Walk is about 2km and steep in no need to book. places, not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs. WALK Monday 25 May, 3pm Tour of Meopham 11 WALK Tuesday 26 May, Valley Vineyard 13 2–4pm and 6–8pm Enjoy a guided tour of this local Tour of Gravesend organic vineyard, tasting different Cemetery wines along the way. The two hectare Listen to a local research group vineyard grows a substantial range of explaining the history of Gravesend grapes and makes white, red, rosé and and Milton Cemetery. Also learn sparkling wines as well as grape juice. about its origin as the Victoria Gardens, a place of entertainment and Location: Meet at Norway House, a prospective tourist attraction. Wrotham Road, Meopham The venue is the grade II listed chapel £2 booking fee per person formally the concert hall of the gardens. Places are limited – booking is essential via Gravesend Tourist Office Location: Meet inside cemetery gates, (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 Old Road West, Gravesend Please note that it is a long walk on £2 booking fee per person uneven ground. Suitable footwear Places are limited – booking is should be worn. Not suitable for essential via Gravesend Tourist Office people with walking difficulties. (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 Please note that walking is involved – WALK Tuesday 26 May, 2–4.30pm suitable clothing and footwear is 12 History Comes to Life! required. A fun family event, part of the Gravesham Heritage Festival and led by our Community Archaeologist.

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Gravesham walks

WALK Wednesday 27 May, WALK Thursday 28 May, 2pm 14 2pm and 6pm 15 Guided Walk of Old Tour of Northfleet Perry Street Cemetery Meet at the Coldharbour library for a Enjoy an informative presentation in short introduction, then enjoy a 1 ½ the chapel of Northfleet Cemetery hour guided walk around Old Perry about the history of the site and then Street. Return to the Library for explore the grounds on a guided walk refreshmentsand questions. to hear about the characters and families that are buried here. These Location: Meet at Coldharbour Library, include Carl Ekman, who had the flats Coldharbour Road, Northfleet. in Northfleet named after him, and the £1 per person; to book your place Rosher family, who gave their name to please contact Coldharbour Library on Rosherville. 01474 534787. Please note that walking is involved - Location: Meet at Northfleet Cemetery, suitable clothing and footwear is Springhead Road, Northfleet. required. £2 booking fee per person; Places are limited – booking is WALK Friday 29 May, 10am essential via Gravesend Tourist Office 16 A History in Trees; a (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 walk in Cobham Wood The walk may stray from the main Join an exploration of Cobham Wood, paths so please be prepared for uneven discovering some of its history as ground and unpredictable weather! revealed by its trees, and how it is being managed for the future. The walk will be about 2–3 hours (around 2–2.5 miles). walking cover:Layout 1 24/4/09 11:52 Page 9

www.towncentric.co.uk/heritagefestival

Location: Meet at Cobham Wood, Location: Meet at the top of Windmill Lodge Lane, Cobham. Hill, Gravesend; 10am – 12noon £2 booking fee per person; Places are £4 adult, £2.50 child/senior; limited – booking is essential via Places are limited – booking is Gravesend Tourist Office essential via Gravesend Tourist Office (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 Path may be muddy so suitable Please note that a fair amount of footwear should be worn. Some steep walking is involved – suitable clothes slopes - not suitable for pushchairs or and footwear is required. those with limited mobility. WALK Sunday 31 May Saturday 30 May, 11am WALK 19 Naughty Nuns and 17 Architecture Walk Nightingales Coach around Windmill Street Tour A guided historical walk from Would you like a day out in the Towncentric, taking in the northern countryside but without a long walk? end of Windmill Street, Manor Road, Then this tour is designed for you. Zion Place, the northern end of You will be picked up at a convenient Wrotham Road, Stone Street and back location and enjoy a tour to the hamlet to New Road. Sandra Soder, Hon. of Church Street where you can learn Secretary of the Gravesend Historical the tale of the naughty nuns and visit Society, will tell you about the history beautiful St Mary’s Church. You will and point out some of the architectural then be driven across the marshes, features along the way. listening for nightingales along the way before finishing with a drink at the Six Location: Meet at Towncentric, Tourist Bells pub in Cliffe Village. The tour Information Centre, 18a St George’s price includes all transport, light Square, Gravesend. refreshments and a full day guided tour. £4 adult, £2.50 child/seniors. The North Kent Marshes Places are limited – booking is essential via Gravesend Tourist Office Location/Pick up times: Milton Road (Towncentric) on 01474 337600 BP Garage – 10.55am; Arriva Garage - Please note that the walk will last 11am; the Hill, Northfleet – 11.05am. about two hours - suitable clothing Drop off: between 4 and 4.30pm and footwear is required. £22 per person For more details and to book a place WALK Sunday 31 May call Carol Donaldson on 07588 18 Walking Tour of 737510. Windmill Hill Please bring a packed lunch and wear Back by popular demand, Tony Larkin, comfortable clothing. local historian will enable you to discover the history of Windmill Hill.

Gravesham walks WALK BATTLE OF WALK HISTORY AND NATURE 20 BOSSENDEN 22 COME TOGETHER Join the MSEP and the Historic Learn about the history of Berengrave Hillwalkers on this creative walk to Nature Reserve, including the industrial celebrate the 171st anniversary of the history of the early 20th century and its last armed uprising on English soil. geology and nature.

Date: Sun 31 May Date: Mon 1 June Location: Boughton, nr Faversham Location: Berengrave Nature Reserve Time: 12 - 4.30pm Time: 10am - 12pm Distance: 5 miles (8km) Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4km) Organisation: Medway Swale Estuary Organisation: Friends of Berengrave Partnership Wildlife, local history Local history

WALK CHURCH AND WALK MURSTON HEALTH 23 CASTLE 21 WALK Circular walk from Cliffe Church across Friendly walk around town with a open countryside to Cooling castle and chance to relax with a drink at end. St James’ Church.

Date: Mon 1 June Date: Tues 2 June Location: Murston, nr Location: Cliffe Time: 9 - 10am Time: 10.30am - 12.30pm Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Distance: 4 miles approx (6.4km) Organisation: East Kent Health Walks Organisation: Ramblers Association

WALK ALONG THE LEAS AT 24 MINSTER An easy going level walk along the sea front at Minster with opportuniy for drinks at end in a local hotel.

Date: Tues 2 June Location: Minster, Sheppey Time: 12 - 1.30pm Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Organisation: East Kent Health Walks

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6510 28/04/2009, 14:41 WALK INVISIBLE WALK EARLY SUMMER BIRD 25 HISTORY 27 WALK Join us as we explore the unusual, half- A chance to see, hear and enjoy some remembered and hidden histories of of the birds that breed in and around Medway. the reedbeds and fields of Motney Hill. Date: Wed 3 June Date: Thur 4 June Location: Rochester Location: Motney Hill, Rainham Time: 9.30am - 12pm Time: 7 - 9am Distance: 5 miles (8km) Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Organisation: Medway Swale Estuary Organisation: Medway Council, Partnership Riverside Country Park Local history Wildlife

WALK RANSCOMBE LONG 28 LOOP A five mile walk taking in all the main parts of the 560 acre Ranscombe Farm reserve, which includes ancient and coppice woodland, chalk grassland and arable fields. All rich with wildlife, they include some of the most important WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK sites for plant conservation in the UK. 26 AROUND THE CITY We will also take a detour into neighbouring Cobham Park, home to a This walk explores the historic city centre fine collection of veteran trees as well of Rochester. From the Visitor Informa- as the recently restored Darnley tion Centre to the bridge, castle gardens, Mausoleum. cathedral precincts, the Vines, Crow Lane and return along the High Street. The walk offers stunning views across Sights include the Guildhall, Restoration the North Downs, Medway Valley and House, Eastgate House and the Poor . Travellers House. Date: Thur 4 June Date: Wed 3 June Location: Cuxton Location: Rochester Time: 10am - 1pm Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Distance: 5 miles (8km) Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Organisation: Plantlife International Organisation: City of Rochester Society Wildlife, local history Local history

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6511 28/04/2009, 14:41 WALK MURSTON HEALTH 31 WALK Friendly walk around town with a chance to relax with a drink at end. Date: Fri 5 June Location: Murston, nr Sittingbourne Time: 9 - 10am Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Organisation: East Kent Health Walks

WALK AROUND ST MARY’S 29 ISLAND This walk has wildlife and historic WALK HEROES, WHORES, interest along the route, ranging from 32 HULKS swans and other birds to views of the Costumed characters telling the stories old fort and Upnor Castle. of Blue Town. Find out about the Date: Thur 4 June Mutineers, the Hulks and Emma Location: St Mary’s Island, Chatham Hamilton - history with the gory bits left Time: 10.30am - 12.30pm in. With a short film and refreshments Distance: 3 miles (4.8km) at the Blue Town Heritage Centre at Organisation: Ramblers Association the end of the walk. Wildlife, local history Date: Fri 5 June Location: Blue Town, Sheerness Time: 7.30 - 9.30pm Distance: 1 mile (1.6km) Organisation: Big Fish Arts Trust Local history WALK IWADE HEALTH 30 WALK Friendly gentle walk on pavements around Iwade Village, mainly south towards Sittingbourne, visiting the new estate on Grovehurst Road. Date: Thur 4 June Location: Iwade Time: 11am - 12pm Distance: 2 miles (3.2km) Organisation: East Kent Health Walks

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6512 28/04/2009, 14:41 WALK BIRDS AND WALK FIVE HILLS OF 33 BEER 35 MEDWAY A gentle walk enjoying views over the Starting at the top of the hill at Church estuary, with expert guide to the area’s Green in , this walk covers the bird life. Visit the local pub at the end. uppermost viewpoints across the with stunning views of the Date: Sat 6 June river and key regeneration sites. Location: Ferry, Shellness Time: 10am - 1pm Date: Sat 6 June Distance: 3.7 miles (6km) Location: Frindsbury Organisation: Kent Coastal Network Time: 10.30am - 2.30pm Wildlife Distance: 5.6 miles (9km) Organisation: Medway Renaissance Regeneration

WALK - GHQ 34 WALK WALK MINSTER CLIFFS This walk has hidden interest as it 36 includes part of the GHQ Line that was CIRCULAR WALK established to defend Britain in the Leaving the sea front via Minster Cliffs, event of an invasion during WW2. We the walk passes Minster Abbey before will cross the now filled in Tank Trench - going through fields and back down the found on a German map of the area - cliffs to the promenade. and pass well-hidden pillboxes and anti- tank positions. Note: am and pm Date: Sat 6 June walks. Please specify when booking. Location: Minster, Sheppey Time: 10.30am - 12.30pm Date: Sat 6 June Distance: 4 miles (6.4km) Location: High Halstow Organisation: East Kent Health Walks Time: 10am - 1pm and 2 - 5pm Distance: 7 miles (11.2km) Organisation: Ramblers Association

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6513 28/04/2009, 14:41 WALK ROAMING 37 PERSPECTIVES A walk with a professional photographic artist who will lead an imaginative perambulation around Queenborough/ Rushenden. Participants will be given a disposable camera to capture images, which will later be included in an artwork created by the artist.

Date: Sat 6 June Location: Queenborough WALK ANCIENT WOODLAND Time: 2 - 4pm 39 Distance: 3 miles (4.8km) WALK Organisation: Art at the Centre Walk through ancient woods where Visual art work has been done by a local group and Royal Engineers clearing footpaths. Enjoy views from North Downs Way.

Date: Sun 7 June Location: Bredhurst Time: 10am - 2pm Distance: 8 miles (12.9km) Organisation: Ramblers Association

WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK 38 AROUND THE CITY This walk explores the historic city centre WALK NORDIC WALKING of Rochester from the Visitor Information 40 FOR FITNESS/LEISURE Centre to the bridge, castle gardens, cathedral precincts, the Vines and Crow Discover Nordic walking with a short Lane. Sights include the Guildhall, introduction to its history, benefits and Restoration House, Eastgate House and training. Then enjoy putting it into the Poor Travellers House. practice.

Date: Sat 6 June Date: Sun 7 June Location: Rochester Location: Riverside Country Park, Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Rainham Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Time: 10.30am - 12pm Organisation: City of Rochester Society Distance: Up to 2.5 miles (4km) Local history Organisation: Bodywise Nordic Walking and Pilates Fitness

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6514 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK THE FINEST VIEW ON WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK 41 THE 43 AROUND THE CITY Join to find out more This walk explores the historic city centre about the fascinating foreshore park at of Rochester from the Visitor Information Grain and see for yourself ‘the finest Centre to the bridge, castle gardens, view in Hoo’. Visit naval defences from cathedral precincts, the Vines and Crow the past 200 years, learn about the birds Lane. Sights include the Guildhall, and bees who now call the place home Restoration House, Eastgate House and and hear 30 years worth of local stories the Poor Travellers House. from the former village bobby. Date: Sat 6 June Date: Sun 7 June Location: Rochester Location: Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Time: 11am - 1pm Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Distance: 4 miles (6.4km) Organisation: City of Rochester Society Organisation: Kent Wildlife Trust Local history Wildlife, local history

WALK MILTON CREEK 42 PARKLANDS This walk will take you past some of Sittingbourne’s main industrial areas to the wide open space of Milton Creek. The route follows the Saxon Shore Way before diverting inland into Church Marshes Country Park. Walking along the edge of the park we will finish at the historic Holy Trinity Church. WALK Date: Sun 7 June MURSTON HEALTH Location: Sittingbourne 44 WALK Time: 2 - 3.30pm Friendly walk around town with a Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) chance to relax with a drink at end. Organisation: Swale Borough Council Date: Mon 8 June Location: Murston, nr Sittingbourne Time: 9 - 10am Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Organisation: East Kent Health Walks

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6515 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK ALONG THE LEAS AT 46 MINSTER An easy going level walk along the sea front at Minster, with opportunity for a drink at the end at a local hotel.

Date: Tues 9 June Location: Minster, Sheppey Time: 12 - 1.30pm Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Organisation: East Kent Health Walks

WALK EASTGATE 45 WITHOUT The walk will explore the eastern end of the City of Rochester from the Visitor Information Centre along the High Street, Star Hill, Jacksons Fields, to Gundulf Road, St Catherine’s Hospital, Fort Pitt with many fine views. Date: Mon 8 June Location: Rochester Time: 2.15pm - 4.15pm Distance: 2 miles (3.2km) Organisation: City of Rochester Society Local history WALK BREEDING BIRD 47 WATCH Walk to the first hide at RSPB Elmley Marshes Nature Reserve with the warden to watch wading birds and the possibility of seeing birds of prey en route, and impressive views over the river.

Date: Tues 9 June Location: Elmley Marshes, Sheppey Time: 1 - 3pm Distance: 3 miles (4.8km) Organisation: RSPB Wildlife

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6516 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK SUNSET AND BARN WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK 48 OWLS 50 AROUND THE CITY Join a minibus from Northfleet or This walk explores the historic city centre Gravesend and take a trip out to the of Rochester to the bridge, castle North Kent Marshes. Enjoy the evening gardens, cathedral precincts, the Vines chorus walking through the woods to and Crow Lane. Sights include the see the sunset. From here hopefully Guildhall, Restoration House, Eastgate witness barn owls hunting. More House and the Poor Travellers House. information on travel arrangements and walk available on booking. Date: Wed 10 June Location: Rochester Date: Tues 9 June Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Location: Hoo Peninsula Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Time: 6.30 - 10.15pm, includes travel Organisation: City of Rochester Society time Local history Distance: 1- 2 miles (1.6 - 3.2km) Organisation: Little Owl Tours Wildlife, local history

WALK IWADE HEALTH 51 WALK Using public footpaths the walk starts north of Iwade village, heading west across fields and using part of the Saxon Shore Way before continuing east back into the village estate, with opportunity for a drink in a local pub at the end. Date: Thur 11 June Location: Iwade WALK FAVERSHAM HEALTH Time: 11am - 12pm 49 WALK Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) A brisk circular walk around the Organisation: East Kent Health Walks Faversham area heading out of town and into the countryside, using some of the many wonderful footpaths in the area.

Date: Wed 10 June Location: Faversham Time: 10 - 11.30am Distance: 4 miles (6.4km) Organisation: Faversham Health Walks

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The is Europe’s largest regeneration project, bringing together national, regional and local partners. It aims to achieve a lasting renaissance in the fortunes of a sub-region where the legacies of an industrial past mean it has long lagged behind and the rest of the South East. Tackling the Gateway’s many environmental challenges is a central part of this mission. Discover Thames G

A key strand of this ambition is the Thames Gateway Parklands initiative. The Parklands vision is to create a coherent landscape of inter-connected urban and rural open spaces across the Thames Gateway – in order to address our many environmental challenges, transform perceptions of the area, encourage high quality investments, and enhance the lives of local people.

As part of the Parklands programme, North Kent is set to receive £10 million from the government to deliver five major green space projects. These are set out below:

Dartford’s Greenheart has its focus where the Darent Valley meets the town, notably where the river runs through Central Park, providing the town with a “Green Heart” and bringing the enjoyment of green space into the daily lives of thousands of residents and visitors to Dartford.

To find out more, join walks no. 68 and 76, 18 & 20 June

The A2 Outdoor Activity Park uses the former A2 corridor and land sandwiched between this and the new A2 to create a new high quality, traffic free, multi-use facility for cycling, mountain bikes and BMX events. With dedicated facilities for local and regional events this major new park will also form a vital green grid link between the Ebbsfleet Valley, with its international station and landmark sculpture, and the major green space cluster formed by Shorne Woods, Jeskyns, Ashenbank, and Cobham.

To find out more, please contact: Laurence Tricker, Project Manager on 01474 338813 or email [email protected] walking cover:Layout 1 24/4/09 11:52 Page 3

Gateway Parklands

Great Expectations – the Thames and Medway Canal is a major regeneration initiative to reconnect Gravesend with its rural hinterland and heritage, forming a Gateway landscape linking the Riverside Leisure Area and regeneration area with the new beacon RSPB reserve at Cliffe Pools. It also forms part of a pan-Gateway project to restore, link and improve access to the historic Thames fortifications in Kent and Essex.

To find out more, join walk no. 7, 22 May

Great Lines Heritage Park is 75 hectares of outstanding green space and heritage in the centre of Medway and, forming a key part of Chatham’s military legacy, it is shortlisted for World Heritage Site status. Heritage features of the Chatham Lines and Fort Amherst will be restored, made accessible, and fully interpreted, providing sweeping views of Chatham town centre and waterfront.

To find out more, join walk no. 57, 14 June

Milton Creek Gateway Landscapes will create a green heart for Sittingbourne town centre’s regeneration at the head of Milton Creek - reuniting the town with its creekside heritage, creating over 50 hectares of new green space on brownfield land, and providing new links between the regenerated town centre, Milton Creek, Marshes and the estuary.

To find out more, join walk no. 42, 7 June WALK A MYSTERY WALK WALK MURSTON HEALTH 52 ROUND SELLING 54 WALK A mystery walk round the Selling Friendly walk around town with a countryside. Suitable for active retired chance to relax with a drink at end. people. Easy pace and one hour pub stop during walk. Date: Fri 12 June Location: Murston, nr Sitingbourne Date: Thur 11 June Time: 12.45 - 1.45pm Location: Selling Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Time: 11.10am - 3.30pm Organisation: East Kent Health Walks Distance: 4 - 5 miles (6.4 - 8km) Organisation: Swale Footpaths Group

WALK NORTH OF THE 55 RAILWAY Starting at the Riverside Country Park the walk will take in some of the quieter areas that exist between the estuary and the Rainham to London railway line,

Date: Sat 13 June Location: Lower Rainham Time: 9 - 11am Distance: 3.5 miles approx (5.6km) Organisation: Medway Council Greenspaces Wildlife, local history WALK HIDDEN 53 ROCHESTER This walk will go in and around the parts of Rochester that other walks don’t reach. Use old footpaths to visit bridges, landmarks and secret parks.

Date: Thur 11 June Location: Rochester Time: 7.30 - 9.30pm Distance: 4 miles (6.4km) Organisation: Ramblers Association

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6520 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK WALK HIDDEN HOO - PAST, 56 AROUND THE CITY 58 PRESENT AND FUTURE This walk explores the historic city centre A Sunday morning stroll to discover the of Rochester from the Visitor Information hidden treasures of the parish of St Centre to the bridge, castle gardens, Mary Hoo on the Hoo Peninsula. cathedral precincts, the Vines and Crow Lane. Sights include the Guildhall, Date: Sun 14 June Restoration House, Eastgate House and Location: Hoo Peninsula the Poor Travellers House. Time: 10am - 1pm Distance: 4 - 5 miles (5.4 - 8km) Date: Sat 13 June Organisation: Kent Wildlife Trust Location: Rochester Wildlife, local history Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Organisation: City of Rochester Society Local history

WALK MARSHES, MUDDIES, 59 HOGARTH’S BUDDIES Walk through villages of Lower, Middle WALK GREAT LINES HERITAGE and Upper Stoke describing built 57 TRAIL heritage, rural life, the ‘Muddies’ who loaded barges with mud for the cement This is a circular walk around aspects of industry, and Hogarth’s visit, with time the military history associated with Fort for a quick visit to a local pub. Amherst and the Great Lines. It follows a trail of 14 information boards around Date: Sun 14 June and across the Great Lines, taking in the Location: Stoke, Hoo Peninsula development of the fortifications, their Time: 12 - 2pm history, the Royal Marines, Royal Distance: 4 miles (6.4km) Engineers, Chatham barracks, siege Wildlife, local history operations and the role played during the second World war.

Date: Sun 14 June Location: Chatham Time: 10am - 1pm Distance: 3 miles (4.8km) Organisation: Fort Amherst Heritage Trust Local history

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6521 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK ARABLE WALK MURSTON HEALTH 60 FLOWERS 62 WALK Join Plantlife’s reserve manager on a gentle Friendly walk around town with a stroll around the cornfields of Ranscombe chance to relax with a drink at end. Farm, looking at the arable flowers for which the reserve is famous, enjoying Date: Mon 15 June great views across the Medway Valley. Location: Murston, nr Sittingbourne Time: 9 - 10am Date: Sun 14 June Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Location: Cuxton Organisation: East Kent Health Walks Time: 1 - 4pm Distance: 3 miles (4.8km) Organisation: Plantlife International Wildlife, local history WALK ALONG THE LEAS AT 63 MINSTER An easy going level walk along the sea front at Minster, with opportunity for a drink at the end in a local hotel.

Date: Tues 16 June Location: Minster, Sheppey Time: 12 - 1.30pm Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Organisation: East Kent Health Walks

WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK 61 AROUND THE CITY This walk explores the historic city centre of Rochester from the Visitor Information WALK Centre to the bridge, castle gardens, EVENING WALK FROM cathedral precincts, the Vines and Crow 64 MEOPHAM GREEN Lane. Sights include the Guildhall, Leaving Meopham walking through Restoration House, Eastgate House and woods and over fields into Happy the Poor Travellers House. Valley, passing through Harvel village. A pleasant walk with fine views. Date: Sun 14 June Location: Rochester Date: Tues 16 June Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Location: Meopham Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Time: 6.30 - 9pm Organisation: City of Rochester Society Distance: 5 miles (8km) Local history Organisation: Ramblers Association

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6522 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK BUTTERFLIES AND WALK CHATHAM MARITIME 65 BUNKERS 67 HEALTH WALK Discover Blean Woods National Nature Starting from the Dockside Outlet reserve at the peak flight period of the Centre, the walk will pass new develop- the jewel of the Blean - the scarce ments, with views of the marina and Heath Fritillary butterfly. Then across across the river to Upnor Castle. open country with views over the estuary to visit a cold war bunker. Enjoy Date: Thur 18 June a rest and a drink in pub on the return Location: Chatham Maritime walk. Time: 10am - 12pm Distance: 3 miles approx (4.8km) Date: Wed 17 June Organisation: Medway Public Health Location: Blean, nr Canterbury Team Time: 10am - 1pm Health Distance: 5 miles (8km) Organisation: The Blean Initiative Wildlife, local history

WALK DARENT RIVER 68 WALK The walk will pass through the new WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK Princes Tunnel, Brookland Lakes and the 66 AROUND THE CITY remains of the old powder mills and finally into more open countryside. From This walk explores the historic city centre South Darenth it heads back via the of Rochester from the Visitor Information lovely church at Darenth, St Margaret’s. Centre to the bridge, castle gardens, We will enjoy a cup of tea as guests of cathedral precincts, the Vines and Crow this beautiful medieval church and have Lane. Sights include the Guildhall, a rare opportunity to learn about its Restoration House, Eastgate House and history from the church team. the Poor Travellers House. Date: Thur 18 June Date: Sat 13 June Location: Dartford Location: Rochester Time: 10.30am - 3pm Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Distance: 7 miles (11.2km) Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Organisation: Naturally Active (North Organisation: City of Rochester Society West Kent Countryside Partnership) Local history Wildlife, local history

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6523 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK AYLESFORD WALK MURSTON HEALTH 69 PRIORY 71 WALK Walk around the grounds of Aylesford Friendly walk around town with a Priory and on to surrounding country- chance to relax with a drink at end. side, including Wouldham Woods. Pram and wheelchair-friendly route. Date: Fri 19 June Location: Murston, nr Sittingbourne Date: Thur 18 June Time: 12.45 - 1.45pm Location: Aylesford Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Time: 10.30am - 12.30pm Organisation: East Kent Health Walks Distance: 3.1 miles (5km) Organisation: All Saints Health Walks

WALK ALONG THE NORTH 70 DOWNS WAY Walk at a gentle pace along the North Downs Way from Bluebell Hill to Shoulder of Mutton Wood. Enjoy great views and a chance at the end to rest in a local pub. Date: Fri 19 June Location: Bluebell Hill, nr Chatham WALK LAW, LEGEND AND Time: 10.30am - 1pm 72 LIQUOR Distance: 3.1 miles (5km) A gentle stroll around Eastchurch with Organisation: All Saints Community frequent stops to watch costumed Project characters telling their stories of Eastchurch including Early Aviation, Smuggling and‘Ghosts’ of Shurland Hall. With occasional musical accompaniment.

Date: Fri 19 June Location: Eastchurch Time: 7.30 - 9pm Distance: 2 miles (3.2km) Organisation: Big Fish Arts Trust Local history

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6524 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK WATERFOWL AND 73 WADERS A walk around part of Kent Wildlife Trust’s Oare Marshes Nature Reserve to look at the water fowl and waders that visit the grazing marsh, scrapes and mudflats. Date: Sat 20 June Location: Oare Marshes Time: 10am - 12pm Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4km) Organisation: Kent Wildlife Trust WALK FAVERSHAM TOWN Wildlife 75 TOUR Your guide will tell you about many of the medieval, Georgian and Victorian buildings which have been preserved and restored in Faversham, market town of kings. Learn about King Stephen and his abbey, an Elizabethan murder which became a play and the house where James II was held after trying to flee the country and much more. Date: Sat 20 June Location: Faversham Time: 10.30am - 12pm Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4km) Organisation: The Faversham Society WALK EASTCHURCH FIGURE Local history 74 OF EIGHT Explore the area in and around Eastchurch, using country lanes, village paths and over fields.

Date: Sat 20 June Location: Eastchurch Time: 10.30am - 12.30pm Distance: 4 - 5 miles (6.4 - 8km) Organisation: East Kent Health Walks

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6525 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK THE MISSING WALK OARE GUNPOWDER 76 LINK 78 WORKS Enjoy the formal beauty of Central park The Oare Gunpowder Works site and go through the newly-opened contains the industrial remains of a Princes Tunnel (the ‘missing link’) to the former gunpowder factory and provides natural landscape of Brooklands Lakes. a range of wildlife habitats. Find out more of the history of Central Park and admire ornamental floral Date: Sat 20 June displays. Location: Oare Time: 11am - 12.30pm Date: Sat 20 June Distance: 2 miles (3.2km) Location: Dartford Organisation: Friends of Oare Time: 10.30am - 12pm Gunpowder Works Distance: 2 miles (3.2km) Wildlife, local history Organisation: Dartford Borough Council

WALK HAIKU 79 HIKE Join on this creative walk inspired by the great Japanese writer Basho. Whilst not compulsory, the idea will be to central park pic to write a haiku based on the walk, leading follow to a small booklet of haiku poetry.

Date: Sat 20 June Location: Cuxton Time: 1.30 - 5pm Distance: 5 miles (8km) Organisation: Medway Swale Estuary WALK ST MARY’S ISLAND Partnership 77 RIVERSIDE WALK An easy relaxed walk around St Mary’s Island with great views over the river.

Date: Sat 20 June Location: Chatham Maritime Time: 10.30am - 1pm Distance: 3.7 miles (6km) Organisation: All Saints Community Project

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6526 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK MIDSUMMER ON THE WALK ARCHEOLOGY OF 80 MARSHES 82 RANSCOMBE FARM Join local experts and the team from Walk the reserve with warden Dave May Kent Wildlife Trust to experience the and hear about the fascinating historical big skies and abundant birdlife of finds that have been discovered, Allhallows village and marshes on the including a 10,000 year old flint axe, a Hoo Peninsula. It will be a chance to medieval well and a musket ball. find out more about this atmospheric landscape and its wildlife. Date: Sun 21 June Location: Cuxton Date: Sat 20 June Time: 10am - 1pm Location: Allhallows, Hoo Peninsula Distance: 3 miles (4.8km) Time: 2 - 5pm Organisation: Plantlife International Distance: 4 - 5 miles (6.4 - 8km) Wildlife, local history Organisation: Kent Wildlife Trust Wildlife, local history

WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK 81 AROUND THE CITY This walk explores the historic city centre of Rochester from the Visitor Information Centre to the bridge, castle gardens, cathedral precincts, the Vines and Crow WALK MID KENT DOWNS Lane. Sights include the Guildhall, 83 Restoration House, Eastgate House and VALLEYS, PLATEAUX the Poor Travellers House. Walk through woodland from Newnham to Eastling then across arable fields past Date: Sat 20 June Eastling Church and down to a beautiful Location: Rochester chalk valley. Walk along the valley Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm through ancient woodlands with diverse Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) flora, sheep meadows and fields. Organisation: City of Rochester Society Local history Date: Sun 21 June Location: Newnham Time: 2 - 5pm Distance: 7 miles (11.2km) Wildlife

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6527 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK WALK SAXON SHORE 84 AROUND THE CITY 87 STROLL This walk explores the historic city centre An after-work stroll along the shore of Rochester. from Lower Upnor to Hoo Marina, returning inland, with great views over Date: Sun 21 June the River Medway. Location: Rochester Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Date: Tues 23 June Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Location: Lower Upnor Organisation: City of Rochester Society Time: 6 - 8pm Local history Distance: 4 miles (6.4km) Organisation: Medway Council Conservation

WALK MURSTON HEALTH WALK WITH A VIEW ACROSS 85 WALK 88 THE THAMES Friendly walk around town with a A circuit via Bredgar, Deans Hill and chance to relax with a drink at end. Oad Street, enjoying extensive views.

Date: Mon 22 June Date: Tues 23 June Location: Murston, nr Sittingbourne Location: Borden Time: 9 - 10am Time: 7 - 9.15pm Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Distance: 6 miles (9.6km) Organisation: East Kent Health Walks Organisation: Swale Footpaths Group

WALK ALONG THE LEAS AT WALK EVENING WALK FROM 86 MINSTER 89 CAMER PARK An easy going level walk along the sea Undulating circular walk across fields front at Minster with opportunity for a and farmland via Luddesdown Church drink at the end at a local hotel. and organic farm.

Date: Tues 23 June Date: Tues 23 June Location: Minster Location: Camer Park, nr Meopham Time: 12 - 1.30pm Time: 7 - 9pm Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Distance: 4 miles (6.4km) Organisation: East Kent Health Walks Organisation: Ramblers Association

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6528 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK WALK ROCHESTER’S GREEN 90 AROUND THE CITY 92 SPACES This walk explores the historic city centre A trail through the green spaces of the of Rochester from the Visitor Information city - the cathedral gardens, the castle, Centre to the bridge, castle gardens, the esplanade and Churchfields, finishing cathedral precincts, the Vines and Crow in the Vines. There will be the opportu- Lane. Sights include the Guildhall, nity to visit Restoration House and its Restoration House, Eastgate House and superb gardens at concessionary rates. the Poor Travellers House. Date: Thur 25 June Date: Wed 24 June Location: Rochester Location: Rochester Time: 10 - 11.30am Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4km) Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Organisation: City of Rochester Organisation: City of Rochester Society Society Local history Local history

WALK EVENING SIGHTS AND 91 SOUNDS A walk across the rolling landscape of Ranscombe Farm at dusk. With luck we may see signs of birds, bats, badgers or even deer.

Date: Wed 24 June Location: Rochester Time: 6 - 8.30pm WALK HISTORY AND NATURE Distance: 3 miles (4.8km) 93 COME TOGETHER Organisation: Plantlife International Learn about Berengrave Nature Re- Wildlife, local history serve’s past, including the industrial history of the early 20th century and the geology and nature of the area.

Date: Thur 25 June Location: Berengrave Time: 10am - 12.00m Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4km) Organisation: Friends of Berengrave Wildlife, local history

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6529 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK SELLING TO WALK MURSTON 94 CANTERBURY 96 WALK A linear walk via Old Wives Lees, North Friendly walk around town with a Downs Way, Chartham Hatch and chance to relax with a drink at end. Harbledown to Canterbury. Return from Canterbury by train (at own cost). Date: Fri 26 June Location: Murston, nr Sittingbourne Date: Thur 25 June Time: 12.45 - 1.45pm Location: Selling Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Time: 11.10 - 5pm Organisation: East Kent Health Walks Distance: 9 miles (14.4km) Organisation: Swale Footpaths Group

WALK HIDDEN 95 ROCHESTER This walk will go in and around the parts of Rochester that other walks don’t reach, using old footpaths to visit bridges, landmarks and secret parks.

Date: Thur 25 June Location: Rochester Time: 7.30 - 9.30pm WALK Distance: 4 miles (6.4km) 97 Organisation: Ramblers Association EXPLORED A historical walk through Strood. Sights include Rochester road and rail bridges, St Nicholas church, the site of the Thames and Medway canal and Strood riverside.

Date: Fri 26 June Location: Strood Time: 2.15 - 4.15pm Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4km) Organisation: City of Rochester Society Local history

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6530 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK FAVERSHAM WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK 98 TREK 100 AROUND THE CITY A day-long walk taking in farmland, This walk explores the historic city centre woods estuary and marshes with inter- of Rochester from the Visitor Information esting views of the Thames, the Swale Centre to the bridge, castle gardens, and surrounding countryside. Setting off cathedral precincts, the Vines and Crow from Faversham the walk will visit Lane. Sights include the Guildhall, Boughton Street, Dargate and Seasalter, Restoration House, Eastgate House and returning along the Saxon Shore way. We the Poor Travellers House. pass the site of the last battle to be fought on British mainland soil. Be sure Date: Sat 27 June to bring food and drink for the day. Location: Rochester Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Date: Sat 27 June Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Location: Faversham Organisation: City of Rochester Society Time: 8.30am - 6pm Local history Distance: 17.5 miles (28.1km) Organisation: Ramblers Association

WALK THE SHEERNESS 99 TRIANGLE A walk enjoying a variety of scenery from parks, waterways and seafront. Date: Sat 27 June WALK SUNDAY RAMBLE Location: Sheerness 101 FROM RANSCOMBE Time: 10.30am - 12.30pm Distance: 4 miles (6.4km) A walk through farmland and country- Organisation: East Kent Health Walks side from Ranscombe Farm to Cobham village, where there will be the chance to relax for a drink or a bite ot eat before returning to Cuxton. The walk explores woods and parkland and offers stunning views across the Downs. Date: Sun 28 June Location: Cuxton Time: 10am - 3pm Distance: 7.5 miles (12km) Organisation: Medway Council

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6531 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK SUNSET AND BARN 104 OWLS Join a minibus from Northfleet or Gravesend and take a trip out to the North Kent Marshes. Enjoy the evening chorus walking through the woods to see the sunset. From here hopefully to witness barn owls hunting.

Date: Sun 28 June WALK ROCHESTER’S NEW Location: North Kent Marshes 102 RIVERSIDE Time: 6.30 - 10.30pm (vincluded travel time) A walk along the new riverside path Distance: 1- 2 miles (1.6 - 3.2km) remembering the area’s industrial Organisation: Little Owl Tours history and the use made of the river. Wildlife, local history Date: Sun 28 June Location: Rochester Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Organisation: City of Rochester Society Local history

WALK ROCHESTER - A WALK 103 AROUND THE CITY This walk explores the historic city centre of Rochester from the Visitor Information Centre to the bridge, castle gardens, WALK MURSTON HEALTH cathedral precincts, the Vines and Crow 105 Lane. Sights include the Guildhall, WALK Restoration House, Eastgate House and Friendly walk around town with a the Poor Travellers House. chance to relax with a drink at end.

Date: Sun 28 June Date: Mon 29 June Location: Rochester Location: Murston, nr Sittingbourne Time: 2.15 - 3.45pm Time: 9 - 10am Distance: 1.5 miles approx (2.4km) Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Organisation: City of Rochester Society Organisation: East Kent Health Walks Local history

PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6532 28/04/2009, 14:42 WALK HISTORY AND NATURE AND MORE WALKING IN JULY! 106 COME TOGETHER Learn about Berengrave Nature Re- WALK CHERRY serve’s past, including the industrial 108 RIPE history of the early 20th century and the geology and nature of the area. A circular walk with stunning views from Doddington Church as it follows Date: Mon 29 June footpaths and quiet country lanes past Location: Berengrave cherry orchards. Return through valleys Time: 10am - 12.00pm and woods typical of the Kent Downs. Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4km) Organisation: Friends of Berengrave Date: Fri 10 July Wildlife, local history Location: Doddington Time: 10am - 12.30pm Distance: 3.6 miles (5.8km) Organisation: Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty/Produced in Kent Ltd WALK ALONG THE LEAS AT Wildlife 107 MINSTER An easy going level walk along the sea front at Minster, with opportunity for a drink at the end in a local hotel.

Date: Tues 30 June WALK CLIFFE POOLS Location: Minster Time: 12 - 1.30pm 109 WILDLIFE WALK Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Walk around Cliffe and see some of the Organisation: East Kent Health Walks birds and wildlife that make this reserve so special. Note: am and pm walks. Stay on in the village and enjoy the Cliffe Village Fayre.

Date: Sat 18 July Location: Cliffe Time: 10.30am - 12pm, 1 - 2.30pm Distance: 2.5 miles (4km) Organisation: Friends of North Kent Marshes/RSPB Wildlife, conservation

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Greening the Gateway Kent & Medway www.gtgkm.org.uk Medway Council www.medway.gov.uk Swale Borough Council www.swale.gov.uk Gravesham Borough Council www.gravesham.gov.uk Dartford Borough Council www.dartford.gov.uk Medway Renaissance www.medwayrenaissance.com Ramblers' Association - Medway Group www.ramblers.org.uk Swale Footpaths Group East Kent HealthWalks www.whi.org.uk Medway Primary Care Trust www.medwaypct.nhs.uk Naturally Active www.nwkcp.org (North West Kent Countryside Partnership) Bodywise Nordic Walking and Pilates All Saints Community Project Walking Group Plantlife International www.plantlife.org.uk Kent Wildlife Trust www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk RSPB www.rspb.org.uk Friends of North Kent Marshes www.northkentmarshes.org.uk Friends of Berengrave www.friendsofberengrave.btik.com Little Owl Tours Kent Coastal Network www.coastalkent.net Medway Swale Estuary Partnership www.medway-swale.org.uk The City of Rochester Society www.city-of-rochester.org.uk Fort Amherst Heritage Trust www.fortamherst.com Blean Heritage & Community Group www.theblean.co.uk Big Fish Arts Trust www.bigfish.org.uk The Faversham Society www.faversham.org Friends of Oare Gunpowder Works www.gunpowderworks.co.uk Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty www.kentdowns.org.uk Produced in Kent www.producedinkent.co.uk Stoke Parish Council www.stokeparishcouncil.org.uk

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ROCHESTER CASTLE GARDENS

15-18 JULY www.castleconcerts.co.uk 01634 338338 PRINT walks leaflet 2009 SINGLE PAGES.p6536 28/04/2009, 14:43