White Cliffs Community Rail Partnership Guided Walks Series

THE DOWNLAND DOCTOR AND MEDICINAL HERBS, FOLKESTONE WEST RAILWAY STATION, CT20 3PA

From Folkestone West station (Station Road side). We’ll walk through Cheriton to access the public footpaths to the countryside. Once in the countryside we’ll walk at a gentle pace to stop and look at plants and wildlife. We’ll ascend to the top of the Folkestone Downs where Dr William Harvey (1578 – 1657) a famous English doctor once lived. Hear about the life and times of William Harvey (who discovered the circulation of the blood). We’ll walk around the summit of the hills overlooking Folkestone and the English Channel. Hear about the landscape geology, prehistory, history, plants and wildlife. Hopefully, if it’s a clear day you’ll see across the channel to the French coast and hear about the aspiring UNESCO Cross Channel Geopark. Be prepared for spectacular views! Hear about the many wild plants we will see, their medicinal, folk and wildlife uses before descending the hills and returning to the railway station.

Please bring a packed lunch and plenty of drinking water. We will be crossing fields with farm animals. Please bring a sun hat if sunny and hot.

Booking Essential. LEADER: Melanie Wrigley, Ecologist and GeoAmbassador

MEET: Outside Folkestone West railway station, meet the Station Road side, Cheriton, Folkestone, Kent. CT20 3PA

DISTANCE: 4.5 - 5 miles (approximately 4 hours includes stopping for packed lunch on the hills).

GRADE: A strenuous walk from the Folkestone plain up to the top of the chalk downs and ascent of over 100 metres. We’ll take it at a gentle pace and stop for rests. Once on top of the hills, walking over uneven ground in the countryside and occasionally on country roads to access footpaths. One or two stiles. We will descend on country paths and steps.

WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING WITH YOU:

Please wear suitable boots or shoes with good grip. Walking poles may be helpful.

Bring waterproof clothing if rain is forecast. Bring a sun hat, sun lotion and plenty to drink in hot and sunny weather.

Bring a packed lunch and plenty of drinks.

Whatever the weather the leader will endeavour to be at the start of the event, although the event may have to be varied or even cancelled in some circumstances