The Five Village Challenge – Group Guided Walk 18 miles/ 29km
Our annual challenge – linking five parishes in one epic 17-mile day challenge.
The Five Village Challenge
Group Guided Walk
Overview:
Join us for our annual challenge walk, which this year will be The Five Village Challenge. We will walk Parish to Parish across five historic Kent villages, linking churches through the North Downs and surrounding countryside.
This is a full-day circular adventure weaving together Chilham, Godmersham, Boughton Aluph, Challock and Molash; a route that combines downland, ancient woodland, estate parkland and quiet village lanes.
Expect a mixture of woodland trails, grassy paths, estate tracks and undulating North Downs terrain. A good level of fitness is essential due to the 18-mile distance and some inclines – particularly across Godmersham Downs and the Challock ridgeline.
This is our one big challenge of the year, lets do this!!
Route Details:
We begin in Chilham, one of Kent’s most picturesque villages, and out first church before we head to our second church which awaits in Godmersham, tucked quietly within the valley. From here, the walk begins to feel bigger as we climb steadily onto Godmersham Downs. The elevation rewards us with expansive views across the Stour Valley and classic North Downs chalkland scenery.
Descending from the downs, we make our way towards Boughton Aluph Church, often described as one of the most beautiful rural churches in Kent.
We continue through Boughton Lees, before entering the sweeping landscape of Eastwell Park. From there we climb again towards Challock Church, perched high with far-reaching views. The ridge here is one of the most rewarding stretches of the day. We pass through Challock village before entering the ancient woodland of Kings Wood; a welcome change of atmosphere, with wide forest tracks and shelter beneath the canopy.
Leaving the woods behind, we head out towards our fifth and final church in Molash.
The closing miles bring us full circle, returning to where we began; five villages linked, five churches visited, 18 miles completed.
A challenge worthy of the calendar!
*A support vehicle is available on the day with water refills and snacks included. The vehicle will be able to take you back to the start point if you wish to stop at any point*
Date: Sunday 27th September
Time: 9am
Location: Meeting at Chilham (full details in the booking confirmation email). A circular walk. There is a train station and car parking.
Terrain: Concrete paved paths, woodland trails. There are some steeper inclines.
Food & Drink: Please ensure you have all food you will need and enough water for this walk. We recommend 1.5L as a minimum. We will stop for a lunch so please bring some food with you. Snacks and water refills will be provided.
Dogs: Well behaved on lead dogs are able to attend this event.