insideKENT Magazine Issue 49 - April 2016 | Page 106

DAYSOUT

Elham Walk

– PEACE AND TRANQUILLITY

Nestled deep in the Kentish countryside, Elham is just like a Garden of Delights and
truly lives up to the Kent ‘Garden of England’ image. This is a wonderful walk taking
in the true sights of spring – complete with views of fields all set out in a pretty
crosspatch fashion which span out all around you – and the panoramic views do not
stop there. Take in the sights of church spires, quaint villages and green pastures all
teeming with wildlife. Spring is all about new beginnings and this walk will allow you
to take in the first signs of everything synonymous with the season.

TAKING IN THE FINE SIGHTS OF ELHAM

STARTING OUT

If you’ve been holed up inside over winter and
only just feel like venturing out, the Elham Walk
is a great starting point. Elham is a village that is
steeped in history. Like many villages it once had
a thriving village centre with trades such as brick
making, iron smelting, rope making and brewing
in full swing. Elham can be traced back to the
time of the Saxons and was granted a market in
the 13th century when it was known for quality
of its leather and hides. The market continued
until the 19th century along with a horse fair.

This circular walk is suitable for most levels of
walking skill although there are stiles situated
throughout this walk. The walking route is well
marked so finding your way around won’t be
difficult.

As you walk through the fresh green pastures of
Elham, it is hard to imagine such a bustling village
economy but less hard to imagine is why notable
celebrities such as the British statesman and
prime minister Sir Anthony Eden and the actress
Katie Johnson, as well as the Kent and England
cricketers Leslie Ames and Mark Elham have
been residents here.

Start at Elham Square, which houses the Kings
Arms pub – a highly recommended pre- or postwalk stop off for a well-cooked Sunday lunch
and a range of real ales – the very beautiful Elham
church and a host of pretty residential listed
properties.
From here, walk down Duck Street past the
church until you reach a signposted footpath o