Walk Church – Sunday 28th April 2024St. Lawrence, Godmersham. CT4 7DT. 1:45pm for 2pm.
This month our walk starts at Godmersham Church, tucked on the edge of the Godmersham Estate Park. I am delighted that we have permission to cut through the southern section of the estate to walk up the Downs to the ancient Pilgrims way. Following the The Pilgrims Way, we get a glimpse of Canterbury Cathedral (you may need binoculars), clearly visible in the gaps between the trees and hill. For the pilgrims bound for Canterbury, this would probably have been their first sight of their destination.
St. Lawrence Godmersham has a picturesque setting along the banks of the Great Stour. Less attractive is the busy A28 nearby, but that does make access easy.
One of the church’s claims of fame is that Jane Austen was probably a regular visitor after her brother inherited the estate in 1798. It is said that the house and estate inspired her novel Mansfield Park.
Practical information:
The route is 4.1miles, (6.5km). Those with with access to digital mapping, you can click this link to view the route. We are grateful to the Godmersham estate who have given permission for us to walk on some of their land.
After last month’s 6 stile walk, many will be relieved to hear that this walk has no stiles. The main challenge of this route is the 120m climb to Godmersham Downs.
Livestock: Sheep were present in one of the fields.
Dogs are welcome but should be kept either under close control or on a lead. They must be on a lead in the field with sheep.
Parking: There is parking in front of the church, but otherwise you can park along the road, and on the grass.
The church has a toilet.
It’s always helpful to know who plans to come, so drop me a reply if you plan to come.