Mereworth Woods and Ryarsh Wood via Lord's Walk and Windmill Hill

Starting near Kent, England, this 24 km (approximately 15 miles) loop trail offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. With an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet), the trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to Mereworth Woods, near the village of Mereworth. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is West Malling. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to Mereworth Woods.

Trail Overview The trail begins at Mereworth Woods, a dense forest known for its towering trees and serene atmosphere. As you start your hike, you'll be enveloped by the lush greenery and the sounds of woodland creatures. The first section of the trail is relatively flat, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging parts ahead.

Lord's Walk Around 5 km (3 miles) into the hike, you'll reach Lord's Walk. This section is named after the historical Lord's Walk estate, which dates back to the 18th century. The path here is well-trodden and offers glimpses of ancient oak trees and the occasional deer. Keep an eye out for the old stone markers that were once used to delineate the estate boundaries.

Windmill Hill At approximately the 10 km (6 miles) mark, you'll begin your ascent up Windmill Hill. This is the most challenging part of the hike, with a steady incline that will test your endurance. The elevation gain here is about 100 meters (328 feet). Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Kent countryside. On a clear day, you can see as far as the North Downs.

Ryarsh Wood Descending from Windmill Hill, you'll enter Ryarsh Wood around the 15 km (9 miles) point. This ancient woodland is a haven for wildlife, including foxes, badgers, and a variety of bird species. The trail here is softer underfoot, thanks to the thick layer of fallen leaves and pine needles. It's a peaceful segment that allows for some quiet reflection.

Historical Significance The area around Mereworth and Ryarsh is steeped in history. Mereworth Castle, located a short distance from the trail, is a Palladian mansion built in the early 18th century. Although not directly on the trail, it's worth a detour if you have the time. The castle's architecture and gardens are a testament to the grandeur of the period.

Navigation and Safety Given the length and complexity of the trail, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to keep you on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be invaluable, especially in the denser sections of the woods.

Final Stretch The last 5 km (3 miles) of the trail loop back towards Mereworth Woods. This section is relatively flat and offers a gentle cooldown after the more strenuous parts of the hike. You'll pass through open fields and small patches of woodland, providing a nice variety of scenery to end your journey.

Wildlife and Flora Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna. Bluebells carpet the forest floor in spring, while autumn brings a stunning display of red and gold foliage. Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of species, including woodpeckers, owls, and songbirds.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.