This walk starting from Cranbrook is one of approximately 11.5 miles, through open countryside, tracks and woodlands, there are fantastic views of the Weald on this route that also visits the National Pinetum at Bedgebury Forest.
Leaving Cranbrook, over the undulating landscape, keep an eye out for llamas, donkeys, turkeys and some beautiful properties, heading towards Tubslake. After crossing the busy A229, the route continues for a short distance along the green lane, before entering Bedgebury Forest. Home of the National Pinetum, it has just enjoyed its Centenary, having been first established in 1925, it is the world's most complete collection of conifers with over 12,000.
We wind our way through the forest spotting the Gruffalo in its natural habitat, before stopping for lunch at the Visitor Centre/Cafe. However, the Cafe can be busy, as we have discovered on previous group walks here, but there are numerous benches for our picnic to be enjoyed.
Suitably refuelled, our circuit continues through the trees passing waterfalls, idyllic cottages and hopefully lots of wildlife. More trackways, forest trails and woodlands await as we continue onward, before reaching the village of Hartley. From here its a pavement walk back to Cranbrook and the completion of this circuit in the Weald of Kent.
A very well deserved opportunity for rehydration will be possible at Larkins Alehouse, for those that wish to participate after the completion of the walk.
Dogs welcome, but do please keep on short lead when required.
Difficulty: Moderate
Ascent: 950ft
Starting point - Meet at the large free car park near the Co-op, located just off the High Street.
Nearest postcode: TN17 3DQ
Walk leader is Geoff Bushell
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