Ashenbank Wood Ancient Woodland

Ashenbank is classified as ancient woodland, meaning it is at least 400 years old – and probably much older than that. The open areas here are relics of the wood pasture system, and in spring the woods are home to a wonderful display of bluebells and wood anemones. The woodland can lay claim to a number of special designations – it is part of the Shorne and Ashenbank SSSI, the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the whole site is subject to a Tree Preservation Order. Two waymarked trails can be used to explore the woodland here – the short blue walk covers half a mile and takes around 20 minutes, while the longer red walk is just over a mile long. The blue walk is generally more accessible, however the route is uneven in places and care should be taken.