Chalkland Events 2021

2021

This summer the OCND project is working in partnership with the Ramblers Association to deliver a number of engaging guided walks throughout the OCND project area. We also have Ispy events and a wildlife activity day delivered by the Medway Valley Countryside Partnership. See below for more details.

North Downs Way Part 2 Borough Green to Halling

Friday, 30 July 2021

Start time 11:00

Moderate 9.5 miles / 15.3 km (Estimated finish time: 16:15)

Walk is linear, bring water and picnic lunch. Return to start by rail takes just over 1 hr via Maidstone and costs £10.50 for an off-peak single without a railcard. You have to change at Maidstone.

For more information visit the Ramblers Go Walking Page

I-Spy Wildlife Event at Leybourne Lakes Country Park

Join the Medway Valley Countryside Partnership and learn about the wildlife and chalk habitat at Leybourne Lakes Country Park. Have fun using guides, sweep nets, bug pots and binoculars to identify some of the wildflowers, mini beasts and birdlife at the park.

Meet at 10am by the play area.

Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times during the event. Please do not bring dogs but be aware dogs may be on site as this is a public open space. Please ensure you and your children wear long trousers and suitable outdoor footwear.

This is a free event , funded by the Old Chalk New Downs Project. Please note that booking is essential and MVCP run a £5 refundable deposit policy (minus booking fee). Car parking charges apply on site.

To book visit eventbrite

North Downs Way Part 3 Halling to Bluebell Hill Picnic site

Friday, 6 August 2021

Start time 11:00

Moderate 9.5 miles / 15.3 km

Linear walk designed to use public transport , start from railway. At end need to walk to Asda on A229 to catch bus to Rochester or to Maidstone where buses are ever 15 min. Buses are available from Bluebell Hill Village but are less frequent. Bring water and picnic lunch.

For more information visit the Ramblers Go Walking Page

North Downs Way Part 4 Bluebell Hill to Detling

Friday, 13 August 2021

Start time 11:00

Moderate 7.5 miles / 12.1 km (Estimated finish time: 15:15)

Linear walk with public transport in mind.
Buses available at end (from Jades Crossing) to Sittingbourne at regular intervals or into Maidstone (later requires walking another 1.5 miles)
Bring water & picnic lunch

For more information visit the Ramblers Go Walking Page

Ranscombe and Cobham Guided Walk

Friday, 3 September 2021

Start time 11:00

Moderate 5.5 miles / 8.8 km (Estimated finish time: 14:00)

The Old Chalk New Down (OCND) project has been working with the Plantlife, National Trust and the West Kent Downs Countryside Trust, to set out beneficial management practices which will enhance and protect the local countryside and the wildlife that lives there. Join us for a circular walk around the picturesque North Downs area. Take in the scenery, learn about the work we are doing and bring a packed lunch for a mid-walk picnic. Not suitable for dog.

For more information and to book email lyndsay.wayman-rook@kent.gov.uk or call 03000 419956

BOOKING ESSENTIAL - EVENING BAT WALK - LEYBOURNE LAKES COUNTRY PARK

Friday, 10 September 2021

Start time: 19:30 (Estimated finish time: 20:30)

Leisurely 1.5 miles / 2.4 km

Join the Old Chalk New Downs (OCND) team for an evening stroll, taking in the sights and sounds of Leybourne Lakes Country Park. Using bat detectors we will listen for the sounds of bats as they head out on their nightly feed. Limited to 30 walkers only. Contact walk leader for a place.

Starring point: Leybourne Lakes Country Park, Malling Rd, Snodland, Aylesford ME20 6AA. Meeting in the country parks parking area just outside the ranger’s hut. (Parking charges may apply).

For more information or to book email lyndsay.wayman-rook@kent.gov.uk or call 03000 419956

Old Chalk New Downs Education Pack

The Old Chalk New Downs Education Pack was designed by the fantastic Anna Outdoors for EYFS, KS1 & KS2. It's packed full of creative resources and ideas for teachers, practitioners and parents, inspired by the habitats and heritage of the North Downs. We hope that the contents of this pack will give you fresh ideas and spark practical activities that will inspire you to take learning beyond the classroom walls.