Aylesford Priory walk

Starting from Aylesford Priory this is a walk of approximately 12.5 miles, it is however a hilly one with around 1300 foot of ascent, so be prepared for some good climbs throughout.

We start along a section of the Medway Valley Walk, heading through the chalk quarries at Culand Pits, where there is now a abundance of wildlife, after the diggers left the area many years ago. This route also features the site of Eccles Roman Villa and also the Neolithic burial chamber of Kits Coty, built nearly 6000 years ago. From here there are glorious views across the North Downs and the Medway Valley.

We reach the viewpoint at Blue Bell Hill, where you will see the Air Ambulance Memorial, following the tragic crash in nearby woodland, where three crew members sadly lost their lives in July 1998. Our circuit continues on the North Downs Way and other tracks, to climb sharply to the top of Westfield Wood. We then descend into Boarley Warren and onto the ancient trackway of the Pilgrims Way, before passing through Cobtree Manor, which stands of the site of the old Maidstone Zoo.

All that remains is to return to Aylesford Priory, where there is a cafe available for those in need of refreshment post walk.

Sorry no dogs on this one.

Walk leader is Geoff Bushell