Chartham walk
Walk information
5 miles (8km) approx. 10,000 steps. Allow 2.5 hours.
A village green and historic houses are the hallmarks of
Chartham at the start of this pleasant circular walk. It follows
through the Stour Valley and back along part of the North Downs
Way.
A corn mill was recorded on the river at Chartham in the
Domesday Book. In the 14th century, the mill was used for fulling
for the textile industry. In the mid 18th century, it changed again
to play a significant role in the Kent papermaking industry.
The village church, St Mary's, dates from the mid 13th century.
The brass of Sir Robert de Septvans, a crusader knight who died in
1306, is considered to be one of the finest in the country.
The Stour Valley is known for its wildlife and in
particular, the populations of grey heron to be seen along its
bank. This rural part of East Kent is most famed for its orchards
offering fine displays of pink and white blossom in spring.
No Man's
Orchard, on the North Downs Way near Chartham Hatch, features
traditional fruit trees which are larger than the more common
modern varieties. Blossom and windfall fruit attract wildlife to
the grassland.
Nearby Larkey
Valley Wood Nature Reserve suffered severe tree damage in the
Great Storm of 1987, but the woodland has been regenerating well.
The ancient woodland's wildlife is as rich as ever including
badgers, dormice, hawfinches and nightingales. In spring, look out
for carpets of wood anemone and violets.
How to get there:
Postcode starting point: CT4 7JW.
By Car: Chartham is just off the A28 between
Ashford and Canterbury.
Parking: Some on-road parking is available in
Chartham outside the church and in surrounding roads.
Train: Nearest station-Chartham (200m).
National Rail Enquiries: 08457 484950.
Bus: 1/ 1A/ 1X (Canterbury – Ashford) half hourly
from Canterbury, hourly from Ashford to Chartham Mon – Sat.
Chartham Height information
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