Challock walk

There are many delightful walk options starting from Challock, and this 10-mile route is high on the lists of perennial favourites amongst the walking fraternity. So take advantage of the final day of 2023 to get the boots out and get some fresh air in your lungs, whilst working off a few calories following Christmas.

We begin by leaving the car park to head across Challock Lees, before our route turns south to pass close by Beech Court Gardens. Making our way through a belt of conifer trees, we stumble upon the 4th-century medieval parish church of St Cosmos and St Damian, which now stands virtually alone, cradled between the chalk folds of the North Downs.

Descending gradually we cross the parkland of Eastwell Park, a short detour will take us to the ruins of St Mary's church by Eastwell Lake. The ruins notable as the burial place of the illegitimate son of Richard III, who fled to Eastwell after his father's death. Once back on route we follow the North Downs Way, as we make progress towards the village green at Boughton Lees, however on arrival there, we will probably be too early for a  pub pit-stop in the Flying Horse. Luckily as no walk is really ever complete without the obligatory pub stop, there is another one almost at the walk finish.

From Boughton Lees, we continue along the North Downs Way passing the 13th-century All Saints' church in Boughton Aluph, before ascending to cross through King's Wood, the bluebells here are wonderful in Spring. Then as promised there is opportunity for a drink in the Stag (formerly the Halfway House), before completion of the circuit.

Don't forget to pack those cold turkey sandwiches and any Xmas leftovers for the snack break at a suitable point on the route.

Walking is on a mix of field paths and tracks, a few bits could be muddy at this time of year, and there is around 900 foot of ascent, so a few gradual climbs, but nothing too taxing.

Happy New Year one and all, hope to see the regulars again in 2024 and maybe a few new faces, perhaps some returnees, who might wish to join us once again on a walk, you might just like it, as walking is addictive.

Walk leader is Kevin Hall