Petham walk

This is an 11-mile walk, which we did last year in February, and it starts from village of Petham, which lies five miles south of Canterbury. Our route explores the high ground of the area, mainly to the west of the old Roman road of Stone Street, including Waltham and Sole Street on this enjoyable day out.

Commencing in a clockwise direction, we pass the village church of All Saints, to soon cross Stone Street, passing the western edge of Upper Hardres Wood, before re crossing the busy road, to make progress toward Waltham.

Waltham, in a similar vein to Petham, is another small village, and had a population of 436 at the time of the 2011 census. Our route takes us beside the ancient St Bartholomew's church, which has windows from the 13th and 14th century, whilst the tower was rebuilt in 1808. 

The churchyard is a useful place to scoff whatever you have lurking in your lunchbox, whilst there is also a playing field nearby, which we have used several times with benches for our break.

After lunch we head across to Sole Street, where the quirky Timber Batts @ The Compasses will be our pub stop. So be prepared for something amusing and a bit different, when you venture to the bar to get your tipple of choice, you have been warned!

The final leg of the walk, takes us on a byway through Barton Wood, beside Buckholt Farm, then across open countryside, followed by Capel Wood. Finally meandering back via Broadway Green Farm and Petham House, on our return to Petham.

There are a few inclines on this one, to get the heart pumping nicely, whilst it could be muddy in places, especially if rain has preceded the walk.

Dogs welcome, but on a short lead when required.

Walk leader is Steve Bourne