The Darent Valley Hike (Otford to Eynsford Circular)

Details

OTFORD STATION 10.15 am Start

Saturday Nov 16th

This walk includes a delightful mix of woodland and open countryside, with fine views from the steep-sided hills overlooking the Darent valley, nestled at the foot of the stunning North Downs, an area steeped in history and a part of Kent designated as an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

HIGHLIGHTS

After a steep climb up onto the North Downs we're rewarded with some fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.

Lullingstone and Preston Hill Country Park where we'll walk past the Roman Villa and Lullingstone Castle (Tudor castle) - regularly visited by Henry VIII and Queen Anne.

Visible from the front of the Villa is the picturesque Eynsford Railway Viaduct. This nine-arched red-brick viaduct was built around 1860 as part of the Sevenoaks Railway.

Descending back to Otford along part of the North Downs Way we'll also pass by the smallest Grade 2 listed building in the country.

Catch a glimpse of The Otford Solar System a full-scale representation of the position of our planets (probably the largest model of its type in the world)

Otford also includes the remains of an Archbishop’s Palace which was one of a chain of great houses belonging to the Archbishops of Canterbury. It was rebuilt on a grand scale in the early 16th century.

Distance: 20 km (13 km)

Total ascent: 510 meters (A hilly walk)

Hike pace: Brisk - Fast

Total time (including lunch break): 5 1/2 - 6 hours

Hike start time: 10.15 am

Finish time: 16.15 pm (Could be earlier, depends on speed of group)

Meeting place: Just outside Otford station

Trains: From London London Charing Cross (9.29)

Check using http://www.trainline.com

Hike leader: Lana (07399 872 618)

Hike fee: £8

Payable to
Kats Adventures Limited
40 09 25
41764527
ref: Name / Otford