Greensand Way – Stage 8 – Shipbourne – Yalding 6.5 miles / 11km

Overview:

The Greensand Way is a scenic 108-mile (174 km) long-distance trail stretching from Haslemere in Surrey to Hamstreet in Kent, following the Greensand Ridge. We will enjoy panoramic views, explore picturesque villages, and pass through historic sites such as Knole Park and Leeds Castle. The route includes several areas of outstanding natural beauty and seven trig points to bag along the way. With varied landscapes, from ancient woodlands, rolling hills, open fields, villages and riversides , it’s a great mini challenge to try and complete over the course of 2025. You will experience the beauty of Surrey and Kent across different seasons as we complete the trail with 1 date per month.

The Greensand Way is named after the Greensand Ridge, a long, narrow band of sandstone that runs through parts of Surrey and Kent. This sandstone is rich in the mineral glauconite, which gives it a distinctive greenish hue, hence the name “Greensand.”

Route Details:

Stage 8:

Starting in Shipbourne, the Greensand Way leads us through a patchwork of orchards and farmland.

As we approach Gedges Hill, the route briefly climbs, providing sweeping views over the Weald and surrounding farmland. The path then descends toward the valley, where we’ll begin to encounter more water features as we approach the Medway River. We will also pass through deer parks along the way.

The final section of the walk leads us into the peaceful village of Yalding, set on the banks of the River Medway. As we arrive, we’ll pass by Yalding Lees, a historic stretch of common land, and the beautiful Twysden Manor. Yalding is where we will end stage 8 of The Greensand Way.

We will stop for various breaks and a lunch stop (please bring a picnic with you)

This is a linear route and we will be car sharing from the start and finish point on each section. This will be arranged via a Whatsapp group that will be in your confirmation email.

 Date: Sunday August 10th
 Time: 10am
£ Cost: £7 per person

 Duration: Please allow approx. 4 hours including breaks. Please note timings are approximates.

Distance: 6.5miles / 11km

 Location: Meeting at Shipbourne ( full details in the email received after booking)
 Terrain: Woodlands, fields and roads. Incline is 184m
 Food & Drink: Please ensure you have all food you will need and enough water for this walk. We’d recommend 2L. We will stop for a lunch so please bring some food with you.
 Toilets: There may be toilets along the route but please be prepared for nature breaks (ie a tree!)
 Dogs: Well behaved on lead dogs are more than welcome to this event.