Yesterday, we embarked on a delightful evening hike along Kent’s Egerton and Pluckley circular trail. This 10.8km trail, with an elevation gain of 230m, offers some of the most magnificent views across the Weald of Kent and the Ashford Valley. Averaging around 2 hours and 42 minutes to complete, it’s the perfect adventure for a leisurely evening stroll with your furry friends.
Starting Point
Egerton, our starting point, is a picturesque village nestled on the Greensand Ridge. The village is home to a beautiful 13th-century church, St. James, and is surrounded by charming old cottages. The architectural styles in Egerton are diverse, ranging from Period Hall Houses and Yeoman Houses to Kentish Barns and modern bungalows.
We left the village and headed out into the countryside through a beautiful apple orchard. This is one of the most beautiful orchards I’ve ever seen. The trees are positioned in perfect rows with well-kept paths between them. The footpath is easy to follow and well-trodden. Petra enjoyed watching the bees buzzing around the apple tree blossoms. We were very tempted to try one of the juicy apples too!
The Hike to Pluckley: Scenic Beauty and Supernatural Lore
Following on from the apple orchard, we found ourselves in a large overgrown rape seed field. The rape seed was no longer in flower, which is ideal for any hayfever sufferers like Badger! The rape seed field is a fairly long walk in the open, so do be aware if you are tempting this walk in the middle of summer. Even in just 19-degree weather, it was a very hot stretch.
When you reach the end of the rape field, you turn right down a country road, which leads you onto another path alongside another field. This path was extremely overgrown and didn’t look like it was walked very often! If you are like me and quite a bit shorter than your partner, I’d suggest you don’t walk behind, or you will be repeatedly hit by oncoming branches!! Although Petra found this highly amusing!
13th-Century Church
After a short walk through Little Pipers Woods, where we discovered some beautiful flowers and fungus growing on a tree, the path led us through a few more fields and down a country road before we stumbled upon the hidden St Mary’s Church. This church dates back to the 13th century and is a beautiful example of the architecture of the church of England. If you are like me and enjoy old derelict buildings, you will definitely enjoy this one.
The Village of Pluckley
As we continued our hike, we reached Pluckley, renowned as the most haunted village in England, boasting 12 official ghosts. Pluckley is also famous as the filming location for the beloved TV series, “The Darling Buds of May.” Despite its spooky reputation, Pluckley is a small but thriving community surrounded by apple orchards, offering stunning views across the Weald. Walking through Pluckley, we couldn’t help but be charmed by its serene beauty. There are some beautiful village pubs you can stop in for a halfway break. Something we shall definitely do next time,
One of the most rewarding aspects of this hike is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Kent countryside. The trail offers a variety of landscapes, from open fields and orchards to wooded areas and quaint village roads. The changing scenery keeps the hike interesting and provides plenty of opportunities for photos.
Enjoying the Journey
Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful hike with your dog, the Egerton and Pluckley circular trail offers something for everyone. The blend of historic charm, stunning landscapes, and a touch of the supernatural makes it a hike to remember. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your dog’s leash, and head out to explore the beautiful trails of Kent. Happy hiking!
Ashleigh
Dog-Friendly Hiking: Tips and Considerations
The hike itself was a pleasant mix of gentle ascents and descents, providing just the right amount of challenge without being too strenuous. The trail is well-marked, making it easy to follow, even in the dimming evening light. As we walked, we enjoyed the serene beauty of the countryside and the rolling hills.
For those planning to tackle this trail with their dogs, it’s a dog-friendly route with plenty of opportunities for your furry friends to explore and enjoy the fresh air. Here are a few tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike with your dog:
- Bring Enough Water: Ensure you have plenty of water for your dog, especially on warmer days. A portable water bowl can help your dog stay hydrated.
- Mind the Livestock: The trail passes through fields where livestock may be grazing. Keep your dog on a leash in these areas to prevent potential conflicts and respect the farmers’ property.
- Check for Ticks: After your hike, thoroughly check your dog for ticks, especially if you’ve walked through tall grass or wooded areas.
- Pack Treats and Snacks: High-energy treats can help keep your dog’s energy levels up, especially on longer hikes. Rewarding them along the way can also make the hike more enjoyable for them.
- Be Mindful of the Terrain: Some trail parts can be rough or steep. Ensure your dog is comfortable with the terrain and take breaks as needed.
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