Boughton Lees walk

This enjoyable 10 mile circuit, is a regular on various Ramblers Group walks, and on it you will savour the delights of a Long Distance National Trail, as well as forest, parkland, a 4th-century church and also a ruined church.

We start by proceeding along a very short section of the 153 mile North Downs Way, also the Pilgrims Way, passing the 13th-century All Saints' church located in nearby Boughton Aluph, before ascending to cross through the ancient forest of King's Wood. On reaching the village of Challock, we head across the Lees, before our route turns south to pass close by Beech Court Gardens. Making our way through a belt of conifer trees, we stumble upon the 4th-century medieval parish church of St Cosmos and St Damian, which now stands virtually alone, cradled between the chalk folds of the North Downs.

Descending gradually, there are good views, as we cross the parkland of Eastwell Park, a short detour will take us to the ruins of St Mary's church by Eastwell Lake. The ruins notable as the burial place of the illegitimate son of Richard III, who fled to Eastwell after his father's death. Once back on route we follow the North Downs Way, on our return to Boughton Lees to finish off this December stroll in the countryside.

As ever there will be a picnic lunch stop, probably at Challock church, then there is the opportunity for a drink in the Flying Horse on completion of the route.

Walking is on a mix of field paths and tracks, a few bits could be muddy at this time of year, and there is around 900 foot of ascent, so a few gradual climbs, but nothing too taxing for the regular walker.

Walk leader is Kevin Hall