North Downs Way – Detling to Lenham

Our eighth leg of the North Downs Way Adventure begins in the charming village of Detling. This segment holds a special place in my heart, offering breathtaking vistas of the countryside. Detling is home to an historical airfield utilized during both World Wars. Our route will take us through the picturesque White Horse Wood country park, where we’ll encounter the remnants of a 12th-century Flint castle.

As we continue, we’ll be treated to numerous viewpoints showcasing the stunning valley below, as well as coming across an intriguing statue honouring the pilgrim, Brother Percival. Don’t forget your camera!

For those wishing to catch the train, we will meet at Bearsted station, where we will meet you 45 minutes earlier and guided the 3KM walk to Detling. As you book onto this walk you will be giving the option to join our WhatsApp lift share group to allow us to lift share between stops. Please let us know if you are running late or not attending otherwise the walk will leave on time. During the weekends we are leaving accommodation open for you to choose something that suits your budget. Alternatively, there are trains returning to Bearsted from Lenham which takes approximately 15 minutes by rail. We will be stopping for a bring your own picnic lunch at around mid-day.

Meeting time – 8:15am prompt (Bearsted) or 08:45hrs at Detling ready for a 0900hrs prompt start*

* Please note that times might slightly change to accommodate train arrivals on the day.

Meeting location – Bearsted Station (ME14 4PH) or outside Detling village hall (ME14 3EY)

Finishing location – Bearsted train station (Me14 4PH) Detling has free on street parking (at time of writing), while Bearstead is paid through APOCA (parking charges are not included)

Walk type – Linear.

Terrain – This trail has undulating paths with some steep sections.

Distance –Detling village – Lenham= 9.2 miles / 14.8 km approx. or (11miles / 17.8km Bearsted – Lenham station) Walking time – 5 hours walking (with a bring-your -own lunch stop)

what 3 Words – Bearsted Station = ///amused.cards.really Detling village hall = ///fizzle.dine.airbrush

We will be stopping for a bring your own picnic lunch at around mid-day. Dogs are welcome if they are friendly and will go on a lead when required such as entering fields of livestock.

If we can ask everyone to bring with them:

A – Suitable footwear (strong shoes or boots preferably walking boots no Flip-flops)

B- A waterproof coat (and waterproof trousers?) in case of rain

C – Drinking water and a packed lunch

D – Personal medication (please make the group leader aware in confidence of any medical condition you have that may affect you in the walk no matter how small)

E- Suitable walking clothing There might only be ‘natural’ toilets along the way (a bush).