insideKENT Magazine Issue 28 - July 2014 | Page 111
Location:
Kingsdown and Walmer
(CT14 7LJ)
Distance:
2.2miles (3.5 km)
Time: Allow 1.5 hours
OS Explorer Map: 138
Terrain:
Field paths and surfaced paths;
gentle slopes
Parking:
Parking is available near the castle in
Kingsdown Road
Refreshments & facilities:
In Walmer
Public transport:
For local bus and train services in Kent,
contact Traveline tel: 0870 6082608,
www.traveline.org.uk
Walmer Castle has been a part of local and
national history since Henry VIII had it built to
help defend the coast from European attacks.
The castle was the Duke of Wellington’s home
for 23 years as the official residence of the Lord
Warden of the Cinque Ports.
From the castle, turn right to follow the
waymarkers across a grassy patch to the road.
Cross the road and you’ll reach a gently sloping
footpath which finally opens out into Hawkshill
Freedom. From here you’ll discover glorious
views across the countryside and over the
Channel.
Turn left and follow the boundary and stride
across the grassy path. Explore the open area
and pause on benches to enjoy windswept views.
This peaceful patch of land was once a World
War I aerodrome; along your walk you’ll find a
small memorial to the pilots who were killed in
the skies over France.
Enjoy more stunning views across the rolling
countryside as you wander along, finally coming
to an open field. Follow the path downhill towards
a patch of woodland.
Walk through the peaceful woodland and soon
your path will open out to Cliff Road with sea
views stretching ahead. Along this section of the
Saxon Shore Way you’ll find the obligatory
backdrop of sea views along with plenty of
chances to access the beach for a brisk walk
along the front.
Keep following the path and you’ll have excellent
views of Walmer Castle on your left. Finish off
your cliff-top tour with a visit to this elegant English
Heritage castle and discover rooms enjoyed by
the Queen Mother, the armchair where Wellington
died and even a pair of original Wellington boots.
If you fancy exploring some more local history,
a short two-mile extension to Deal takes in another
of Henry VIII’s creations to fend off attacks from
Europe. The English Heritage Deal Castle remains
one of the finest Tudor artillery castles in Europe
and is well worth a visit if you can make the short
stroll along the sea front.
To find out about other walks in Kent or for information on cycling, riding and country parks
in Kent, visit www.kent.gov.uk/explorekent. Follow @explorekent on Twitter.
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