Sunshine outing in Kent

Eight walkers gathered in glorious sunshine at the Aperfield Inn on August 7 before setting off northward on the road towards Biggin Hill. After about half a mile, the group headed over meadows and through Pimlico Wood, then turned left in front of Brickyard Farm. We crossed Jail Lane and encountered a minor undulation in what was promised to be a near-level walk throughout.

The walkers at Downe

The route contoured through more wooded territory, with glimpses of the West Kent Golf Course to our left. This tranquil scene was periodically interrupted by jets from Biggin Hill taking off from the plateau beyond the course.

John and George traverse the landscape

We turned right and reached the quaint village of Downe. Older members remembered a concert in the tiny church some 20 years earlier, with its equally memorable après singing in the acoustic yard in front of the George and Dragon pub. This time we repaired to the sunny garden at the rear for half-time refreshment.

The return journey passed Darwin’s  Down House and skirted Downe Court. The group resisted temptation for a sharpener at the Old Jail pub and we were soon back at the Aperfield Inn for dinner.