Brenzett, Brookland and the Romney Marsh

Featuring photos (old and new) of Brenzett, Brookland and the surrounding villages plus views and items of interest of the Romney Marsh

 

Guided Walks Winter 2008

  

FEBRUARY 2008

 

Friday 1st February           

FOOTPATH ENHANCEMENT, HAWKINGE

We will be working to improve footpaths in Hawkinge parish, which may involve installing waymarking, a new stile and clearing overgrown paths.  MEET: 9.30am Dover, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.05am Wood Avenue or 10.15am Village Hall, Canterbury Road, Hawkinge (TR 215 399). For further information please phone Steve Walker 01304 241806 or 07885 599182 to find out where we are.

 

THEME: HEDGEROWS

Learn all about hedgerows and the ancient art of hedgelaying.

 

Saturday 2nd February  2.00pm

SANDWICH TO MARSHBOROUGH MEANDER

Join our friendly group on a winter walk from Sandwich. Children over 7 welcome. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Diane of Collyer’s Companions (01304 241806). MEET: Sandwich Cemetery, Woodnesborough Road, Sandwich (TR 327 579). DISTANCE: 4 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 4

 

Sunday 3rd February        

HEDGE LAYING WORKSHOP, NEW ROMNEY WARREN

Come along and learn how to lay a hedge in the traditional way.  There will be a number of experts on hand to help you. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 9.50am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.15am Red Lion Hotel, Hythe, 10.30am Ocean Inn, Dymchurch, 10.40am Cinque Port Arms pub, New Romney or 10.45am at New Romney Warren Car Park, off the St Mary’s Bay to New Romney road (A259) (TR 078 261).

 

Sunday 3rd February  2.00pm           

HEDGE FRINGED HAWKINGE

Can we find signs of nature emerging from its winter slumbers in this important wildlife habitat? Donation appreciated. LEADER: Steve Walker, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01304 241806 or 07885 599182). MEET: Village Hall (Please park along Canterbury Road and not in the village hall car park), Canterbury Road, Hawkinge, near Folkestone (TR 215 399). DISTANCE: 4 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 3

 

Tuesday 5th February      

SCRUB CLEARING, WHINLESS DOWN, DOVER

Help with scrub clearing at the top, bottom and ‘on’ the steep slopes cutting back scrub and along footpaths. Work where you feel most comfortable. Bring spuds to cook on the bonfire if you like. Please wear boots with good grip. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.20am at the pedestrian gate into the Elms Vale Recreation Ground near Harbour School, Elms Vale Road, Dover (TR  295 413).

 

Wednesday 6th February                

SCRUB CLEARING, GIBBIN’S BROOK

We shall be building on the excellent work done last year, clearing invading birch and willow from this wonderful nutrient poor fen. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 9.50am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Folkestone or 10.20am at the pond along Brook Lane, Gibbin’s Brook, Sellindge (TR 116 387). Please bring wellies.

 

THEME: MINER’S WAY

Walk along the new Miner’s Way and discover all about the history of the former coalfields.

 

Saturday 9th February  10.30am

WINTER WILDFOWL GUIDED WALK (Please book)

Dungeness is an excellent place to see wildfowl in the winter months.  Booking essential. CHARGE: RSPB members ٠.50, Wildlife Explorers ٟ, non-members: adults ٣.00, concessions ٢.00, children ٠.00. LEADER: RSPB (01797 320588).   MEET: Visitor Centre, RSPB reserve, Dungeness Road, Dungeness (TR 068 185). DISTANCE: 1 mile (2 hours). GRADE: 2. NO DOGS.

 

Saturday 9th February  1.45pm         

FOLKESTONE OLD TOWN

Discover the history behind the old areas of Folkestone, in particular the Old High Street and the Bayle. CHARGE: ٠ per adult. LEADER: Maureen Criddle for White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 275318). MEET: Bottom of Old High Street, Folkestone (TR 233 361). DISTANCE: 1 mile (1.5 hours). GRADE: 2. NO DOGS.

 

Saturday 9th February  2.00pm         

ADISHAM TO COOTING DOWNS

A gentle country walk along a section of the North Downs Way crossing Cooting Down via Ileden Wood with beautiful views across East Kent. Children over 7 welcome. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Julia of Collyer’s Companions (01304 241806). MEET: Woodlands Road, (just up road past Woodlands Farm), Adisham (TR 223 536). DISTANCE: 4 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 3 (may be muddy).

 

Sunday 10th February      

COPPICING, SPINNEY WOOD, AYLESHAM

We return to this woodland where we will be coppicing areas to benefit the fantastic flora this wood supports and cut stakes for hedgelaying. MEET 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue. 10.00am Dover or 10.20am at the Spinney Lane entrance to Spinney Wood, Aylesham (TR 230 516).

 

Sunday 10th February  2.00pm         

Trees of Fredville Park

The trees of Fredville Park look magnificent even in winter. Join us on this walk around the Coalfield Parishes following part of the Miner’s Way trail. Paths are likely to be muddy so wear sensible footwear. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Josie Newman, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 274806 or 07880 706994). MEET: Snowdown railway station. DISTANCE: 5 miles (2.5 hours). GRADE: 3

 

Tuesday 12th February    

SCRUB CLEARING, HIGH MEADOW LNR, DOVER

We will be cutting scrub to reclaim the grassland on Dover’s newest Local Nature Reserve. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.15am at the top of Noah’s Ark Road (opposite the Grammar school), Dover (TR 303 417).

 

Wednesday 13th February              

SCRUB CLEARING, WESTERN HEIGHTS NATURE RESERVE, AYCLIFFE. DOVER.

We will be cutting scrub back along the lower ‘ride’/footpaths to benefit wildlife, as well as people. Please bring spuds to cook on the bonfire if you like. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.20am near the bungalow’s 130, St. David’s Avenue (there is a footpath up onto the nature reserve next to it. The bungalows are set back from the road), Aycliffe, Dover (TR 304 399).

 

Thursday 14th February   

SCRUB CLEARING, ROUND HILL, FOLKESTONE

Clearing scrub regrowth from the upper slopes of Round Hill, to continue reclaiming the open grassland. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.05am Wood Avenue or 10.15am at the start of Crete Road West, Folkestone (TR 221 384).

 

Friday 15th February         

COPPICING, HAMSTREET WOODS NNR

A chance to coppice part of Hamstreet wood NNR; owned by Natural England. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 9.50am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.15am Red Lion Hotel, Hythe, 10.30am Ocean Inn, Dymchurch, 10.45am Cinque Port Arms pub, New Romney or 11.00am at Bournewood Car park, end of Bourne Lane (the entrance to Hamstreet Wood NNR), Hamstreet (TR 004 338). Please bring wellies.

 

THEME: GREEN GANG (February 16th - 24th)

A special programme of activities for children and their families are organised during the school holidays. Only some of the events are shown here. The full programme can be found in the free Green Gang magazine, which is available from local libraries, local Tourist Information Centres or from WCCP (01304 241806). Please note that children must be accompanied at all times by a responsible adult.

 

Saturday 16th February  10.00am                     

WHITE CLIFFS WALK, DOVER TO CAPEL (Long walk)

Walk from Dover to Capel and back across cliffs. Please bring light lunch and plenty of water/hot drink. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Mike Hopper for White Cliffs Countryside Project (01304 201855). MEET: WCCP office (car parking fees), 6 Cambridge Terrace, Dover. DISTANCE: 12 miles (6 hours). GRADE: 5 (long walk). Dogs on leads.

 

Saturday 16th February  2.00pm                       

A WINGHAM WANDER

Walking over Neavy Downs to Bossington, through Broome Wood and return via Wingham Well. Children over 7 welcome. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Bernadette of Collyer’s Companions (01304 241806). MEET: Village car park, Wingham (TR 244 576). DISTANCE: 4 miles (2.5 hours). GRADE: 3

 

Saturday 16th February  2.00pm       

Budding Detectives walk this way! (Green Gang)

Join the budding detective trail and discover the secrets of the trees in Spinney Wood. Donation appreciated.  LEADER: Arty Crafty for White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 262432). MEET: Cooting Road (junction of Wilcox Close), Aylesham (TR 230 520). DISTANCE: 1 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 3 (muddy paths)

 

Sunday 17th February      

SCRUB CLEARING, WESTERN HEIGHTS NATURE RESERVE, AYCLIFFE. DOVER.

We will be cutting scrub back along the lower ‘ride’/footpaths to benefit wildlife, as well as people. Please bring spuds to cook on the bonfire if you like. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.20am near the bungalows 130, St. David’s Avenue (there is a footpath up onto the nature reserve next to it), Aycliffe, Dover (TR 304 399).

 

Sunday 17th February  2.00pm           

ALONG THE LINE PART III - HOOKED UP (Green Gang) - Part funded by Kent County Council.

Come along to Samphire Hoe and discover the wildlife of the strand line.  We will be collecting material washed up on the beach.  Back at the picnic area we will turn it into a sculpture called ‘hooked up’. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Artist Ruth Parkinson and Paul Holt, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01304 225649). MEET. Site management office, Samphire Hoe (pay and display car park) (sign posted off the A20 from Dover to Folkestone) (TR 294 391). DISTANCE: 1 mile (2 hours). GRADE: 2. Dogs on leads.

 

Sunday 17th February  2.00pm         

RUNNING WITH THE RANSLEYS

Follow in the footsteps of the notorious Ransley Brothers into Hamstreet woods, and back along the Royal Military Canal.

Donation appreciated. LEADER: Mary Tate, Romney Marsh Countryside Project (01797 367934 or 07771 636105). MEET: Car park next to playing fields in Hamstreet (TR 002 334). DISTANCE: 3 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 4 (muddy paths).

 

Sunday 17th February  2.00pm

DOVER’S HIDDEN FORTRESS (Please book)

Please see 21st October for details.

 

Monday 18th February  2.00pm        

ICE AGE MELTDOWN IN HAWKINGE  (Green Gang)

What was it like when the ice melted after the ice age? Who died out? and who got away to fight another day? Donation appreciated.  LEADER:  Steve Walker, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01304 241806).  MEET Reinden Wood, Canterbury Road, Hawkinge, near Folkestone (TR 213 409). DISTANCE: 1.5 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 3 (muddy)

 

Tuesday 19th February    

HEDGELAYING AT WORTH

This is a great opportunity for local landowners and any other interested people to come along and find out about the ancient art of hedgelaying. You will be using tools such as billhooks and slashers to cut pleachers, withies and stakes. MEET 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.30am Worth Mill, Mill Lane, Worth (TR 329 558).

 

Tuesday 19th February  2.00pm                       

HARRY THE HEDGER (Green Gang)

A short walk looking at the wildlife value of hedgerows stopping by to see traditional hedgelaying in action. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Josie Newman, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 274806). MEET: Outside the church at Worth (TR 336 560). DISTANCE: 2 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 2

 

Wednesday 20th February              

SCRUB COPPICING, ROUND HILL, FOLKESTONE

Continuing on from previous years to coppice a large block of mostly blackthorn scrub, on the eastern side of Round Hill. The aim being to create a mixed age block of scrub, ideal for birds to nest in. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.05am Wood Avenue or 10.15am at the start of Crete Road West, Folkestone (TR 221 384).

 

Wednesday 20th February  10.30am

BECOMING A NATURE DETECTIVE - FAMILY EVENT (Please book)

By reading natures clues we can discover a wealth of winter wildlife around the reserve. We will spend some of the morning investigating owl pellets!  CHARGE: Wildlife Explorers ٠, non-members ١, accompanying adults free. LEADER: RSPB (01797 320588).  MEET: Visitor Centre, RSPB reserve, Dungeness Road, Dungeness (TR 068 185). DISTANCE: 1 mile (2 hours). GRADE: 2. NO DOGS.

 

Wednesday 20th February 2.00pm                  

WINTER WILDLIFE AT SWEET BRIAR MEADOW (Green Gang)

We will be walking around Sweet Briar Meadow looking out for early signs of spring. We will also be thinking about where the wildlife has been over the winter time. Parking is available on Sweet Briar Lane or Terrace Road. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Josie Newman, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 274806). MEET: On small area of grass just off footpath leading from the corner of Sweet Briar Lane, Elvington (marked with metal finger post) (TR 280 505). DISTANCE: 1 mile (2 hours). GRADE: 2

 

Thursday 21st February  2.00pm      

Snowdrop Stencils (Green Gang)

Take a stroll to look for snowdrops and come back into the warm to do a snowdrop stenciled pot to take away. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Arty Crafty for White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 262432). MEET: Aylesham Youth Project, Ackholt Road, Aylesham (TR 241 524) DISTANCE: 1.5 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 2

 

Friday 22nd February       

SCRUB CLEARING, GIBBIN’S BROOK

We shall be building on the excellent work done last year, clearing invading birch and willow from this wonderful nutrient poor fen. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 9.50am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Folkestone or 10.20am at the pond along Brook Lane, Gibbin’s Brook, Sellindge (TR 116 387). Please bring wellies.

 

Friday 22nd February  10.30am & 1.30pm       

BIRDWATCHING EXPLORE AND MAKE DAY - FAMILY EVENT (Please book)

Join our field teachers to find some of our winter visitors and then spend some time working on crafts inspired by our finds.  Equipment, materials and supervision provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking essential. CHARGE:  Wildlife Explorer members ٠ per session, non-members ١ per session, accompanying adults free. LEADER: RSPB (01797 320588).  MEET: Visitor Centre, RSPB reserve, Dungeness Road, Dungeness (TR 068 185). DISTANCE: 1 mile (2 hours). GRADE: 2. NO DOGS.

 

Friday 22nd February  2.00pm           

NATURE DETECTIVE (Green Gang)

Become a tracker in the woods. Identify animal prints and signs and sketch them so you can remember them. We might find evidence of foxes and badgers in the woods. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Mary Tate, Romney Marsh Countryside Project (01797 367934). MEET: Car park, Hamstreet Woods, Bourne Lane, Hamstreet (TR 004 337). DISTANCE: 2 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 3 (muddy paths).

 

Friday 22nd February  2.00pm           

SHRIEK!!! IT'S A SHREK STROLL IN THE SHADE (Green Gang)

Back in the dark and medieval times, life and death were all around in Reinden Woods. So just what was it like to grow up a long time ago? Donation appreciated.  LEADER: Steve Walker, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01304 241806).  MEET Reinden Wood, Canterbury Road, Hawkinge, near Folkestone (TR 213 409). DISTANCE: 1.5 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 3 (muddy)

 

Friday 22nd February  7.30pm           

ILLUSTRATED TALK: KENT’S FORGOTTEN WILDLIFE

An illustrated talk on seals and other wildlife in and around Kent by ecologist Brett Lewis. Organised by the Folkestone, Hythe and Dover Local Group of Kent Wildlife Trust. Non-members welcome. CHARGE: ٠ (to include tea and biscuits). Further information from Pauline Bateson, KWT (01304 853503). MEET: Age Concern Hall, Sanford House, Stade Street, Hythe.

 

THEME: SNOWDROPS/GREEN GANG

Looking out for snowdrops and other signs of spring.

 

Saturday 23rd February  10.00am     

UP & DOWN, OVER & AROUND THE DOWNS (Long walk)

The walk follows a route from Martin Mill via Ringwould, Ripple, Sutton, East & West Langdon. The early spring (late winter!) walk explores the countryside enjoying landscape views and scenery with a lunch break at Plough pub, Ripple or bring packed lunch, snacks and drink. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Les Oliver for White Cliffs Countryside Project (07801 508958). MEET: Martin Mill railway station (TR 342 466). DISTANCE: 11 miles (5 hours). GRADE: 5 (long walk) Dogs on leads.

 

Saturday 23rd February  2.00pm       

PRESTON TO ELMSTONE

A circular walk from Preston to Elmstone. Children over 7 welcome. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Shirley of Collyer’s Companions (01304 241806). MEET: Village hall (please do not use their car park), Mill Lane, Preston (TR 251 613). DISTANCE: 4 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 2

 

Saturday 23rd February 2.00pm                        

Windy chimes (Green Gang)

Take a walk on the windy side of Dover at Sweet Briar Meadow and discover more about the weather. Make a wind chime to take home. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Arty Crafty for White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 262432).  MEET: On small area of grass just off footpath leading from the corner of Sweet Briar Lane, Elvington (marked with metal finger post) (TR 280 505).  DISTANCE: 1.5 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 2

 

Sunday 24th February      

SCRUB CLEARING, CASTLE HILL, FOLKESTONE

Clearing young scrub regrowth from the lower slopes of Castle Hill. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.05am Wood Avenue or 10.15am at the bottom of Castle Hill, off M20 junction 13, Folkestone (TR 210 377).

 

Sunday 24th February  10.30am                        

WILD WEEKEND: SNOWDROPS & INGOLDSBY LEGENDS (Please book)

A walk to discover snowdrops and other early spring wildlife of the lovely downland parish of Denton, with stories from the Ingoldsby Legends.  We will stop at a pub for lunch (bring money) or bring a packed lunch.  Charge ٣ per person.  LEADER: Kirk Alexander, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 274806 or 07885 599182).  MEET: Selsted, near Folkestone. DISTANCE: 6 miles (5.5 hours). GRADE: 3   

 

Sunday 24th February  2.00pm                           

CYCLE RIDE: A FORAY IN THE FOREST (Green Gang)

It’s time to get those little legs out! Come along for some off-road fun on a short route that’s been recently created around Lyminge Forest. This route is completely off-road. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Richard Haynes, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 274806 or 07799 857007). MEET: Car park, West Wood, Lyminge Forest (just off Stone Street B2064) (TR 143 441). DISTANCE: 5 miles (1.5 hours). 

 

Wednesday 27th February              

HELPING THE HOE

There is plenty to do at the Hoe which could include path clearing, electric fence work or erosion control.  Come along and help at this wonderful site.  For more information call Paul on 01304 225649. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue. 10.00am Dover or 10.15am at the site office, Samphire Hoe, Dover (Sign posted off the A20 when driving from Dover to Folkestone) (TR 294 391).  Park in the back car park and collect a parking permit from the office.

 

Thursday 28th February                   

FOOTPATH ENHANCEMENT, HAWKINGE

We will be continuing to improve footpaths in Hawkinge parish, which may involve installing waymarking, a new stile and clearing overgrown paths.  MEET: 9.30am Dover, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.05am Wood Avenue or 10.15am Village hall, Canterbury Road, Hawkinge (TR 215 399). For further information please phone Steve Walker 01304 241806 or 07885 599182 to find out where we are.

 

Friday 29th February         

HEDGE LAYING WORKSHOP, NEW ROMNEY WARREN

Come along and learn how to lay a hedge in the traditional way.  There will be a number of experts on hand to help you. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 9.50am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.15am Red Lion Hotel, Hythe, 10.30am Ocean Inn, Dymchurch, 10.40am Cinque Port Arms pub, New Romney or 10.45am at New Romney Warren car park, off the St Mary’s Bay to New Romney road (A259) (TR 078 261).

 

MARCH 2008

 

THEME: MOTHER’S DAY

Why not invite your mum to join you on a spring stroll?

 

Saturday 1st March  2.00pm              

THE ELHAM VALLEY & COVERT WOOD

Starting from village of Barham, walking along country lanes, fields and woodland tracks with views across the beautiful Elham Valley.  The route crosses pasture land and finishes along beside the Nailbourne, an intermittent stream. 3 stiles along route. Children over 7 welcome. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Julia of Collyer’s Companions (01304 241806). MEET: Barham Church (TR 209 501). DISTANCE: 4.5 miles (2.25 hours). GRADE: 3

 

Sunday 2nd March            

HEDGE LAYING WORKSHOP, NEW ROMNEY WARREN

Come along and learn how to lay a hedge in the traditional way.  There will be a number of experts on hand to help you. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 9.50am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.15am Red Lion Hotel, Hythe, 10.30am Ocean Inn, Dymchurch, 10.40am Cinque Port Arms pub, New Romney or 10.45am at New Romney Warren car park, off the St Mary’s Bay to New Romney road (A259) (TR 078 261).

 

Sunday 2nd March  2.00pm               

MARL-VELLOUS MOTHERS DAY AT SAMPHIRE HOE

A marl-vellous walk on Mother’s day around the Hoe to discover what has happened to the chalk marl dug from the Channel Tunnel.  With a chance to treat your wonderful mothers to hot chocolate or ice cream depending on the weather. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Paul Holt, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01304 225649 or 07771 635370).  MEET: Site management office, Samphire Hoe (pay and display car park) (sign posted off the A20 from Dover to Folkestone) (TR 294 391). DISTANCE: 1 mile (1.5 hours). GRADE: 2. Dogs on leads.

 

Tuesday 4th March           

SCRUB CLEARING, WESTERN HEIGHTS NATURE RESERVE, AYCLIFFE. DOVER.

We will be cutting through scrub to benefit wildlife, as well as people. Please bring spuds to cook on the bonfire if you like. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.20am near the bungalow’s 130, St. David’s Avenue (there is a footpath up onto the nature reserve next to it. The bungalows are set back from the road), Aycliffe, Dover (TR 304 399).

 

Wednesday 5th March     

HELPING THE HOE

There is plenty to do at the Hoe which could include path clearing, electric fence work or erosion control.  Come along and help at this wonderful site.  For more information call Paul on 01304 225649. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.15am at the site office, Samphire Hoe, Dover (Sign posted off the A20 when driving from Dover to Folkestone) (TR 294 391).  Park in the back car park and collect a parking permit from the office.

 

THEME: EARLY SPRING WILDLIFE

Looking out for signs of early spring wildlife.

 

Saturday 8th March  2.00pm             

SPRING WALK AROUND ADISHAM

Join our leisurely walk discovering some of Adisham’s history and looking for first signs of spring in the woods. Children over 7 welcome. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Diane of Collyer’s Companions (01304 241806). MEET: Pond Hill triangle junction with Station Road, Adisham (TR 228 543). DISTANCE: 4 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 4

 

Sunday 9th March

STEP BUILDING AND SCRUB CLEARING, DOLL’S HOUSE HILL, FOLKESTONE

We shall be continuing with this ambitious footpath project and clearing some scrub to make way for it. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 9.50am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Folkestone or 10.20am at the parking place along Danton Lane, near Northcliffe House, Doll’s House Hill, Peene, Folkestone (TR 192 381).

 

Sunday 9th March  2.00pm                

WILDLIFE WALK AT DUNGENESS

A walk to see the wildlife and hear about the history of Dungeness National Nature Reserve.  Donation appreciated. LEADER: Owen Leyshon, Dungeness Shingle & Wetland Officer (01797 367934 or 07770 670316). MEET:  Old Lighthouse, Dungeness Road, Dungeness (TR 088 167). DISTANCE: 2 miles (2.5 hours). GRADE: 3 (shingle).

 

Tuesday 11th March         

FOOTPATH ENHANCEMENT, HAWKINGE

We will be continuing to improve footpaths in Hawkinge parish, which may involve installing waymarking, a new stile and clearing overgrown paths.  MEET: 9.30am Dover, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.05am Wood Avenue or 10.15am Village hall, Canterbury Road, Hawkinge (TR 215 399). For further information please phone Steve Walker 01304 241806 or 07885 599182 to find out where we are.

 

Wednesday 12th March                   

SCRUB CLEARING, WESTERN HEIGHTS NATURE RESERVE, AYCLIFFE. DOVER.

We will be cutting through scrub to benefit wildlife, as well as people. Please bring spuds to cook on the bonfire if you like. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.20am near the bungalow’s 130, St. David’s Avenue (there is a footpath up onto the nature reserve next to it. The bungalows are set back from the road), Aycliffe, Dover (TR 304 399).

 

THEME: MINER’S WAY

Join a walk through the new Miner’s Way.

 

Saturday 15th March  10.00am          

MINER’S WAY AND COAL COUNTRY (long walk)

Explore the countryside around Ash, Woodnesborough, Staple, Goodnestone and Wingham following part of the Miner’s Way with lunch break at the Three Tuns pub, Staple or bring packed lunch, snacks and drink. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Les Oliver for White Cliffs Countryside Project (07801 508958). MEET: Ash car park (near recreation ground) (TR 288 584). DISTANCE:  11 miles (5 hours). GRADE: 5 (long walk). Dogs on leads.

 

Saturday 15th March  1.45pm           

SEABROOK AND THE ‘GOOSE CATHEDRAL’

A walk to discover the past of the Seabrook area and Horn Street. We will be investigating the story behind Jocelyn Brooke’s ‘Goose Cathedral’. CHARGE: ٠ per adult. LEADER: Maureen Criddle for White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 275318). MEET: Car park, by Town Diner, Seabrook Road, Seabrook, (TR 190 349). DISTANCE: 2 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 2

 

Saturday 15th March  2.00pm           

WINGHAM & ICKHAM

Over gently rolling countryside to Ickham, on across slightly rising ground and skirting Wingham Well. Children over 7 welcome. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Bernadette of Collyer’s Companions (01304 241806). MEET: Village car park, Wingham (TR 574 246). DISTANCE: 4.75 miles (3 hours). GRADE: 3

 

Sunday 16th March           

HELPING THE HOE

There is plenty to do at the Hoe which could include path clearing, electric fence work or erosion control.  Come along and help at this wonderful site.  For more information call Paul on 01304 225649. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.15am at the site office, Samphire Hoe, Dover (Sign posted off the A20 when driving from Dover to Folkestone) (TR 294 391).  Park in the back car park and collect a parking permit from the office.

 

Sunday 16th March  11.00am            

BIRDWATCHING FOR BEGINNERS GUIDED WALK (Please book)

A guided walk especially aimed at those new to birdwatching.  Booking essential. CHARGE: RSPB members ٠.50, Wildlife Explorers ٟ, non-members: adults ٣.00, concessions ٢.00, children ٠.00. LEADER: RSPB (01797 320588). MEET: Visitor Centre, RSPB reserve, Dungeness Road, Dungeness (TR 068 185). DISTANCE: 1 mile (2 hours). GRADE: 2. NO DOGS.

 

Sunday 16th March  2.00pm              

SANDWICH TO MARSHBOROUGH

A circular walk through Marshborough, Woodnesborough and Stone Cross. We will be looking at the spring wildlife on this short walk in the coalfield. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Josie Newman, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 274806 or 07880 706994). MEET: Sandwich railway station (TR 333 576). DISTANCE: 4 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 3

 

Sunday 16th March  2.00pm               

CYCLE RIDE: LYMINGE FOREST CYCLE ROUTE

Come along and cycle one of the new Lyminge Forest cycle routes. This one follows the Elham Valley and parts of cycle route 17 – one of the most picturesque cycle routes in the area. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Richard Haynes, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01303 274806 or 07799 857007). MEET: Outside Elham village church, Elham (TR 177 438). DISTANCE: 12 miles (2.5 hours). 

 

Sunday 16th March  2.00pm              

DOVER’S HIDDEN FORTRESS (Please book)

Please see 21st October for details.

 

Tuesday 18th March         

COPPICING, SPINNEY WOOD, AYLESHAM

Our final visit this winter to continue with the coppicing at this important wildlife site. This will open up the canopy and benefit the fantastic flora to be found within the wood. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.20am at Spinney Lane entrance to Spinney Wood. Aylesham (TR 230 516).

 

Wednesday 19th March   

MEADOW CUT & RAKING, CHERRY GARDEN, FOLKESTONE

The annual spring management of the meadow at our Folkestone office. One of the few flat sites we work on!  MEET: 9.30am Dover, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.05am Wood Avenue or 10.15am at the bottom of Castle Hill, off M20 junction 13, Folkestone (TR 210 377). Then driving up to our office by the reservoirs.

 

Thursday 20th March       

SCRUB CLEARING, HIGH MEADOW LNR, DOVER

We will be cutting scrub to reclaim the grassland on Dover’s newest Local Nature Reserve. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.15am at the top of Noah’s Ark Road, opposite the Grammar school (TR 303 417).

 

THEME: EASTER

Easter 2008 marks the 15th birthday of the start of the Green Gang.  A special programme of activities for children and their families are organised during the school holidays. Only some of the events are shown here. The full programme can be found in the free Green Gang magazine, which is available from local libraries, local Tourist Information Centres or from WCCP (01304 241806). Please note that children must be accompanied at all times by a responsible adult.

 

Good Friday 21st March  10.00am      

EASTER CROSSES WALK, DOVER

From the Maison Dieu, join the procession to Albany Place (suitable for wheel/pushchairs), where those who wish to climb Cowgate Steps continue up to Drop Redoubt /Field to see the crosses erected, weather permitting. We pause en route for singing, prayer and short bible readings to commemorate Christ’s death more than 2000 years ago. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Monica Pope (01304 202643). MEET: Between Maison Dieu and Town Council office, Biggin Street, Dover (TR 316 417). DISTANCE: 1 mile (1 hour). GRADE: 3

 

Good Friday 21st March    

EASTER CROSSES, FOLKESTONE

The annual procession of Easter crosses from Folkestone town centre to Sugarloaf Hill, Folkestone Downs.  Details from WCCP (01304 241806 or www.whitecliffscountryside.org.uk) nearer the time.

 

Saturday 22nd March  2.00pm          

THROUGH EASTRY’S ORCHARDS

A walk round Eastry, through orchards, churchyards and fields. Children over 7 welcome. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Bernadette of Collyer’s Companions (01304 241806). MEET: Village car park, Eastry (TR 306 549). DISTANCE: 5 miles (3 hours). GRADE: 4

 

Easter Sunday 23rd March   2.00pm                 

SPRING ON TO THE DOWNS

A walk over the Folkestone Downs, in search of early signs of spring. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Philip Green, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01304 241806 or 07880 706993). MEET: At the start of Crete Road West (off Canterbury Road, A260), Folkestone (TR 221 384). DISTANCE: 3 miles (3 hours). GRADE: 4

 

Thursday 27th March       

PATH CLEARING & REPAIRS, FOLKESTONE WARREN

Cutting back the vegetation along the footpath down to the beach at the East Cliff and any repairs needed after the winter weather. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.05am Wood Avenue or 10.15am at the Pavilion car park, Wear Bay Road, Folkestone (TR 239 365). Then driving behind the bowls/tennis courts. Wellies may be advisable.

 

Friday 28th March               

MEADOW CUT & RAKING, CHERRY GARDEN, FOLKESTONE

Continuing on from last Wednesday’s task, helping to improve the quality of our meadow for the wildlife. MEET: 9.30am Dover, 10.00am Folkestone, 10.05am Wood Avenue or 10.15am at the bottom of Castle Hill, off M20 junction 13, Folkestone (TR 210 377). Then driving up to our office by the reservoirs.

 

Friday 28th March  7.30pm

ILLUSTRATED TALK: ANTS

An illustrated talk on the fascinating world of ants, in particular the wood ants at Blean Woods, by Dave Maylam of Natural England. Organised by the Folkestone, Hythe and Dover Local Group of Kent Wildlife Trust. Non-members welcome. CHARGE: ٠ (to include tea and biscuits). Further information from Pauline Bateson, KWT (01304 853503). MEET: Age Concern Hall, Sanford House, Stade Street, Hythe.

 

THEME: SPRING WILDLIFE

Spring should have started!  Dust off those boots and take a lovely spring stroll through the countryside.

 

Saturday 29th March  10.30am          

WILD WEEKEND - WALK THE MINER’S WAY 1 (Please book)

A chance to walk the first part of the new Miner’s Way trail.  Today we will be walking the section from Eastry to Aylesham (starting from Sandwich), returning by train (please bring money for train fare).  Please bring a packed lunch.  CHARGE: ٣ per person.  A free copy of the Miner’s Way Walks’ Pack if you complete today’s and tomorrow’s walk.  LEADER: Kirk Alexander, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01304 241806 or 07885 599182).  MEET: Sandwich railway station.  DISTANCE: 15 miles (8 hours). GRADE: 5 (long walk).

 

Saturday 29th March  2.00pm           

A CIRCULAR WALK FROM ASH TO STAPLE

Join our friendly group following part of the old East Kent Railway and passing by the daffodil farm. Children over 7 welcome. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Shirley of Collyer’s Companions (01304 241806). MEET: Village car park, behind village hall, Queen Street, Ash (TR 288 584). DISTANCE: 4 miles (2 hours). GRADE: 3

 

Sunday 30th March           

WILDLIFE AND FOOTPATH MANAGEMENT, WESTERN HEIGHTS LOCAL NATURE RESERVE, AYCLIFFE, DOVER. GREEN GANG 15TH BIRTHDAY TASK.

We will be doing various works cutting  through scrub and along footpaths to benefit wildlife, as well as people. Please bring spuds to cook on the bonfire if you like. MEET: 9.30am Folkestone, 9.40am Wood Avenue, 10.00am Dover or 10.20am near the bungalow’s 130, St. David’s Avenue (there is a footpath up onto the nature reserve next to it. The bungalows are set back from the road), Aycliffe, Dover (TR 304 399).

 

Sunday 30th March  10.30am            

WILD WEEKEND - WALK THE MINER’S WAY 2 (Please book)

A chance to complete walking the new Miner’s Way trail.  Today we will be walking the section from Aylesham back to Eastry (and then Sandwich), returning by train (please bring money for fare).  Please bring a packed lunch.  CHARGE: ٣ per person.  A free copy of the Miner’s Way walks’ pack if you complete today’s and yesterday’s walk.  LEADER: Kirk Alexander, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01304 241806 or 07885 599182).  MEET: Sandwich railway station.  DISTANCE: 15 miles (8 hours).  GRADE: 5 (long walk).

 

Sunday 30th March  2.00pm              

THE HAWKINGE HARE HUNT

A longer stroll in the rolling hills around Hawkinge to see if we can see any hares, mad or otherwise. Donation appreciated. LEADER: Steve Walker, White Cliffs Countryside Project (01304 241806 or 07885 599182). MEET: Village hall (Please park along Canterbury Road and not in the village hall car park), Canterbury Road, Hawkinge, near Folkestone (TR 215 399). DISTANCE: 6 miles (3 hours). GRADE: 3