On the North Downs Way
It's a beautiful day, sunny with a cool breeze. After dropping Gubs and Dash off at school, I parked up in Coldred and went for a walk along the lanes. I headed to Waldershare Park through the little patch of woodland and followed the North Downs Way across the fields of sweetcorn. After chatting with a few friendly dog walkers along the trail, I paused to take this panorama of the fields and clouds.
The North Downs Way, a treasure trove of England's history, stretches 153 miles from Farnham in Surrey to Dover in Kent. This revered National Trail, established in 1978, follows in the footsteps of ancient pilgrimage paths, including the famous Pilgrims' Way that medieval pilgrims traversed on their journey to Canterbury Cathedral. The trail, steeped in history, unfolds a diverse tapestry of landscapes and stories, sure to pique the interest of any history buff.
Waldershare Park, near Dover and Whitfield, exemplifies the grandeur of England's historic estates. The park's centrepiece, Waldershare House, was constructed in the early 18th century by a prominent financier and politician, Sir Henry Furness. Though the house itself is not open to the public, its presence adds an air of historical significance to the trail. The surrounding parkland, designed in the classic English landscape style by notable landscapers such as Capability Brown, features rolling meadows, ancient woodlands, and artfully placed vistas. The woodlands are home to majestic ancient trees, some of which are several hundred years old. Birdwatchers might spot species such as the green woodpecker, nuthatch, and buzzard. The park's grasslands and hedgerows provide habitat for butterflies, wildflowers, and small mammals, making it a rewarding destination for nature enthusiasts.
