Eynsford - Shoreham - River Darent - Eynsford
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This walk was originally compiled by Alan and Janet Love, sadly both are no longer with us. Alison Gilbert has kindly offered to take them over. Alison and Walkingworld would like all these excellent walks to remain as a continuing tribute to Alan and Janet.
This must rate as one of the most scenic walks in Kent, starting in the picturesque village of Eynsford which lies on the River Darent and as its name suggests has a ford, which the village has grown up around and which is still in use today.
Eynsford has won the Best Kept Village award and the South East in Bloom competition five times. Eynsford hosts the remains of one of the earliest Norman stonework defences in the country and the remains of the fascinating Eynsford Castle.
We walk along the most scenic of tracks above the equally attractive village of Shoreham and descend to reach its streets. Beside the river here is Samuel Palmer's former house. Palmer was a 19th Century artist who found inspiration in the local idyllic rural scenes.
We follow the River Darent for most of the way back to Eynsford, passing or visiting The Hop Shop, a farm shop in a lovely setting beside the river. Next comes Lullingstone Park Visitors' Centre, with up to 460 acres of magnificent countryside to explore as well as an excellent cafeteria.
Next en route is Lullingstone Castle with its fine state rooms, family portraits and armour, together with beautiful grounds and lake. This is also the site for the World Garden of Plants. Some 600 yards further on we come to Lullingstone Roman Villa, recognised as one of the most exciting archaelogical finds of the century and run by English Heritage.
All these attractions are right on the route of our walk and you pass from one to the other. Finally we come to Eagle Heights Bird of Prey Centre which is a little way up a drive on the left just after the Roman Villa site. They also have meerkats, otters and reptiles, so plenty of variety.
After completing this walk, especially on a hot day, what better than to dip you aching feet in the refreshing waters of the Darent, which you are positively invited to do on a small plaque sited on the bank.
England - South England - Kent - Countryside
Features
Ancient Monument, Birds, Butterflies, Cafe, Castle, Church, Flowers, Food Shop, Gift Shop, Great Views, Lake/Loch, Museum, Pub, Public Transport, Restaurant, River, Stately Home, Tea Shop, Toilets, Wildlife, Woodland
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