Chilham
Chilham is one of the most visited places in Kent and with good reason.
This picture-postcard village, near Canterbury, is based around a square hemmed by half-timbered buildings of Tudor origin.
Among the finest of the buildings is the half-timbered Tudor Lodge (1370-1410), Tudor Cottage, and the White Horse Inn – all in the village square.
Chilham Castle
Much older is Chilham Castle, a Jacobean manor house and Norman castle keep built for Henry II in 1174.
The gardens of Chilham Castle are occasionally open to the public. If you are able to visit the gardens, then do so because they are superb.
The landscape gardens surrounding the estate with exceptional views across the Stour Valley, are designed by the famous ‘Capability’ Brown.
Walking
Chilham lies high above the valley of the River Stour in the scenic Kent Downs.
The surrounding countryside of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is criss-crossed by many footpaths, bridalways and country lanes.
We enjoyed a 4,5-mile circular walk to the north and east of Chilham.
Passing lovely traditional orchards, through the wonderfully named Old Wives Lees and on to the spectacular views and Neolithic heritage of Julliberrie Down.
Another 4.5-mile circular heads west of Chilham, through Shottenden, to the dramatic Mount and ancient Perry Wood, returning through acres of orchards.
South of Chilham, you can take a 5-mile circular walk around the pretty village of Godmersham. A place often visited by Jane Austen when she visited her brother, Edward, at Godmersham Park.
It is said that she got inspiration for Emma, Pride and Prejudice and Mansfield Park during her visits here.
Unfortunately, the house itself is closed to the public. However, this walk runs through part of the estate, offering views of the House and Folly.
Long distance paths
Or join the North Downs Way as it follows the Pilgrims Way to Canterbury, tracing the paths of pilgrims.
You will travel for 7,2 miles through an expanse of orchard, finally reaching a magnificent view of the majestic cathedral.
You will pass St Dunstan’s Church. It was here that King Henry II paid his penance for the murder of Thomas Becket; clothed in a rough hair shirt and cloak, he walked barefoot to the cathedral.
Soon you will reach the pinnacle of the ancient pilgrimage, Canterbury Cathedral.
Why not take on a different challenge and try the Stour Valley Walk.
The Stour Valley Walk is a 58-mile (93 km) route through the Low Weald and North Downs, giving you access to some the most attractive parts of East Kent.
It passes Chilham on its way to Canterbury.
Cool Places to Explore: Canterbury Cathedral | Sandwich | Deal | Whitstable | Margate.
Cool Places to Eat: Shelly’s Tea Rooms | The White Horse Inn.
Cool Places to Stay: The PIG at Bridge.
