Join us for a ramble through the Kent Downs taking in sections of the Wealdway, North Downs Way and Medway Valley Walk, finishing in the historic city of Rochester.
After following the Wealdway through bright yellow fields of rapeseed and vineyards from Sole Street via Luddesdown and Great Buckland, we pick up one of the quieter sections of the North Downs Way through woodland, perhaps glimpsing some late bluebells, and crossing the River Medway in one of its noisiest sections, alongside the M2 motorway!
Having crossed the river, we join the Medway Valley Walk and walk in to Rochester, finishing close to the historic and dramatic castle before taking the train back from Rochester.
We will stop for lunch near Cuxton at about 1230 - please bring a packed lunch.
At the end of the walk, option to visit Rochester Castle (English Heritage, open until 6pm; £8.50 adult, £6 concession, members free).
Alternatively for those that wish to stay on for a drink, we will stop off at the Ye Arrow pub close to Rochester station.
Drop out points: None
No booking required.
The finishing time is an estimate only and will be dependent on a number of factors, such as, weather, the speed at which the group walks and the number of breaks taken.
Travel
Take the 09:47 train from London Victoria, calling at Bromley South at 10:06, arriving Sole Street at 10:32.
Buy a return ticket to Rochester. Note that fast trains from Rochester home do not stop at all stations so you may need to make sure that your ticket includes the option to go via London (depending on where to you live) if you want to avoid taking a stopping train home.
Freedom pass and 60+ Oyster card holders, buy a return from end zone 6 to Rochester (St Mary Cray is the last station in Zone 6 on the outbound train, but not all return trains from Rochester call at St Mary Cray)