Aylesford to Harrietsham (15 miles/Moderate)

Metropolitan Walkers is part of the Ramblers, Britain's walking charity. All welcome for 3 'taster' walks, after which please join the Ramblers - info on the Met Walkers website

A walk through rolling Kent countryside. Includes some steep climbs, but we will regroup at the top. From Aylesford station, you immediately leave the industrial landscape behind and walk on the Medway Valley Trail by the river. Reaching the village of Aylesford, we climb to meet the North Downs Way, using a small lane and a trail to avoid the busy road. We then follow the North Downs Way through to Harrietsham, where there is a pub and a station.

NB: This walk is at the upper end of the moderate grading, meaning that there is more distance to cover and more hills to ascend than lighter moderate walks, so a reasonably good level of fitness is required. Please also ensure you are properly equipped; in particular, adequate footwear is essential.

Please bring a packed lunch. Toilet and drink stop available en route at the Cock Inn, Detling.

Travel: Take 8:30 from Victoria, change at Paddock Wood (arr. 9:23, dep. 9:33), arr. 10:02 Aylesford. Buy return to Harrietsham.

Alternatively, take 8:20 from London St Pancras International, change at Strood (arr. 8:53, dep. 9:33), arr. 9:50 Aylesford. Buy return to Harrietsham valid on HS1 (likely more expensive than ticket from Victoria).

Please meet outside Aylesford station. We will wait for both trains provided they are reasonably punctual; contact the walk leader in case of significant delay.

On the way back, there is scheduled to be a bus replacement from Harrietsham to Maidstone East for connections to London.

Grading: Moderate.
For an explanation of the gradings, please see the FAQ - please consider both the length and grade when choosing a walk.

Finish point: Harrietsham
More info: https://www.ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/group-walks/aylesford-harrietsham