On the 27th of July 2025 a small band of East Kent members went on an enjoyable walk through varied countryside.  It was the same weekend as the Annual Outdoor Gathering in Lancaster, so we only had a total of 6.  From the starting point in the village of Eastry near Sandwich, we made our way across fields and tracks to Marley and then on to Northbourne church where we stopped for lunch and had a good look at the church.  One of our group named Barry, pointed out that some of the stone used in the church external wall was from original small Roman columns which was good to know.

After lunch we then departed in a westerly direction through fields, woodland and tracks on towards Betteshanger church which is a beautiful building and Photos are displayed here.  It is the church used by the nearby Northbourne school.  Northbourne Park School, was originally called Betteshanger House.  The current building, a Grade II* listed country house, is a product of extensive remodeling by architect George Devey in the late 19th century, transforming a villa into a structure that appears to have evolved over centuries. The school itself began as a small "Progressive Preparatory School" in 1933, leasing the property.  It is an impressive place for children to learn.

Then we made our return back to Eastry through gentle countryside, before stopping at The Five Bells pub in Eastry for a drink before we went our separate ways.  Even though there was only six people attending, it was good to see a lot of new faces.  I hope you all enjoyed coming on a GOC walk and that we will see you all again soon.