Heritage Open Days Guided Walk. Lenham to Hollingbourne, 11th September.
Working in collaboration with Visit Maidstone, Explore Kent and North Downs Way National Trail, Kent Community Rail Partnership are guiding walks through the Kent Downs National Landscape. Together we aim to bring more sustainable tourism to the area and extend the typical summer tourist season to all year round.
21 walkers left Lenham station for a 5.5 mile guided walk along the North Downs Way to Hollingbourne station. Fortunately, the weather was bright and breezy for the whole walk which began with a slow wander through the historic village of Lenham before the route joined the gentle footpath climb onto the North Downs Way.
Great views of the Chalk Cross were seen together with impressive sweeping vistas of the Downs. The gentle route took in many places of interest including a photo opportunity with Percival the Pilgrim – locally known as Percy! Therese spoke about the ecology, farming techniques, the history of pilgrimage on the trail and the fauna and flora along the route.
The route descended into Hollingbourne village where the walkers enjoyed well-earned refreshments at the welcoming Signal Box Café at Hollingbourne Station.
Everyone commented on how impressed they were at the community café, its welcoming staff, delicious treats, and warm atmosphere – many commenting that they will return soon with friends and family. All said they would like to join another walk.
A thoroughly enjoyable Days Out By Rail adventure, promoting sustainable tourism in the communities along our Kent Downs Line.
