A LOCAL rambling organisation is encouraging Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge residents to get involved.
Nicola Brown, a spokesperson for Tonbridge & Malling Ramblers, said that across the county there are 13 Ramblers groups, all part of The Ramblers, Britain’s walking charity. They offer a variety of walks each week, ranging from leisurely short walks to strenuous all-day walks.
“What all the groups have in common us that you can try a couple of ‘taster’ walks before there’s any commitment to join The Ramblers. It’s a chance to enjoy the physical, mental and social benefits the outdoors has to offer,” she said.
“If walking in a group isn’t for you, there are other opportunities to volunteer with a local Ramblers group to help check that local footpaths are clear and walkable, or to get involved with a footpath maintenance team.”
Tunbridge Wells Ramblers offers Sunday and occasional mid-week walks from different starting points.
“Our walks are usually four to six miles and we have a special walk coming up on Remembrance Sunday when we will join the annual memorial service at the Airmen’s Grave monument in Ashdown Forest,” said chairman Lawrence McLean.
Walks this month include:
Sunday November 20: 5-mile ‘moderate’ walk from Five Oak Green, climbing up through hop fields and orchards to a ridge near Spring Grove with lovely views, and returning through woods, fields and more orchards.
Wednesday November 30: leisurely 5.5-mile walk from Tudeley across farmland to the River Medway. Return along the Medway to Tonbridge and back via lanes and fields.
Sunday November 13: 5.5-mile ‘moderate’ walk from King’s Standing car park in Ashdown Forest to the Airmen’s Grave for a memorial service.
Thursday November 17: 4-mile ‘moderate’ trek from Tunbridge Wells Common to Rusthall and down to the Spa Valley Railway, returning via Lower Common. The route will include the bat cave and the cold baths.
For further information about any of the groups contact: nicola.brown55@btinternet.com
