Previewing the 2015 Five Church Walk

Have you dug out your walking shoes yet? On 4th May 2015 (Bank Holiday Monday) is a grand opportunity to enjoy a walk in the countryside, at the same time raise funds for Chilham Church or alternatively the Pilgrims Hospices or Kent Air Ambulance with a donation of £5 (suggested minimum per person payable on the day). of which £1 is retained to defray the Walk's expenses.

Entry or sponsorship forms (with guidance notes on the back) are already available from the back of the church though they needn't be completed till you arrive on the day after 10.00am. But if you aim to raise a larger sum, collect the white form beforehand and ask your family & friends each to sponsor you for a fiver for your walking. You’ll be amazed how this spurs you on (as if the lovely countryside were not enough to inspire you).

The route way-marked with red arrows is mostly along established paths with a few quiet roads. Although the circuit of Chilham – Godmersham – Challock – Molash – Chilham is 16 miles, many people choose to walk just one or two sections, - but they must find transport back.

Now that Godmersham is the first church after Chilham, the almost level 2 1/2 miles is ideal for all walkers with children or the less able; returning the same way gives a manageable total 5 miles. An added attraction is the Heritage Centre near the church being open to visitors.

And (for the first time since the Walk started in 1984) the new route ascends the Downs on a Godmersham Park Estate path before joining the North Downs Way which continues to Boughton Aluph and the other churches. (NB. for 2016 the arrows will direct walkers the other way round).