A Ramblers group with walks of about 4 - 6 miles. We explore the beautiful Kent countryside from within the Tonbridge and Malling area and, occasionally, further afield.
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UPDATED 12 MARCH: Due to a flooded path, it will not be possible to reach All Saints' Church from Bank Farm near the end of the walk. Instead, we can reach the church by road after the end of the walk.
Due to the wet ground conditions, about 50% of this walk will now be on quiet roads. The remaining 50% will be woodland and some very wet fields. The walk length is still about 6.5 miles.
Waterproof footwear and walking poles are recommended. Please call the leader for more information.
Leaving Tudeley Hale we set off across farmland towards Thomas à Becket Church at Capel, where we will pause briefly to admire the 13th century friezes lining the church walls. It is said that Thomas à Becket (1118-1170) himself preached under the ancient yew tree in the churchyard. Passing through the well-kept churchyard, our next landmarks are Kent College and Pembury Old Church, where we will join a section of the Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk.
The highlight of the walk will be All Saints’ Church at Tudeley, the only church in the world to have all its windows designed by the renowned 20th century artist, Marc Chagall. On a sunny day, the light through these windows is magical. The church is about 10 minutes before the end of the walk so anyone wishing to visit the church and learn the story of the windows can finish the walk here, or return later.
Both Capel and Tudeley churches are normally open until 16.00.
The walk takes in farmland, orchards, woodland tracks and some quiet roads with good views across open countryside and towards the North Downs. There will be a few wet and muddy sections to negotiate. There is one long steady ascent (not steep) and two shorter steeper uphill sections. There are 10 stiles in mixed condition.
Although listed as dog-friendly, the many stiles make the walk suitable for small dogs only. Dogs will need to be on leads in fields with sheep.
Nibble break (bring refreshments) approximately half-way though the walk.
A table is reserved for us at 14.00 at The Poacher & Partridge (01732 358934). If you would like lunch, please call in advance and request to join the Tonbridge & Malling Ramblers table.
Park and meet in the back car park of The Poacher & Partridge dining pub in Hartlake Road, Tudeley. Please arrive 10 minutes before the start of the walk to register and hear the walk briefing. The 205 bus route runs hourly on weekdays from Paddock Wood to Tudeley (15 minute journey) and from Tonbridge to Tudeley (5 minute journey). Both Paddock Wood and Tonbridge have mainline rail stations.
