Hythe walk

This is a route of around 12.5 miles, which saviours the delights of both coast and countryside, and it commences from the former Cinque Port town of Hythe. There is much to enthuse over on this circuit, which takes in the prominent local landmark of Tolsford Hill, with its Radio Mast & Trig Point, from which there are great views, including on a clear day the coastline of France.

Initially we head along the flat towards the English Channel which we follow, before then joining a stretch of the Royal Military Canal path en route to neighbouring Seabrook. The terrain then changes as we head uphill to pass through Paraker Wood to then join the Elham Valley Way at Dibgate Camp. Onward we head to the tiny hamlets of both Newington and the Peene and then along the line of the Dismantled Railway which forms part of the EVW. 

When we reach Coombe Farm, the EVW at this point is joined by both the North Downs Way and the Saxon Shore Way, for the short ascent to the Tolsford Hill, where the Trig Point awaits at the highest point.

Our descent back to base, takes us through Saltwood, passing through the churchyard and beside the castle, which back in 1580 was ruined by an earthquake, but in modern times has been restored as a private residence.

On our return to Hythe there is ample opportunities for the obligatory post walk pub visit, the Red Lion seems a good choice to finish with. 

With less than 1000 feet of ascent, it is graded as leisurely, with nothing too taxing for the regular walker, but if still muddy, some might consider the grading closer to moderate. However, what ever weather precedes the walk, the first three miles are definitely mud free !

Walk leader is Kevin Hall