West Kent – Kilndown & Bedgebury Pinetum circular walk – 7th July, 2019

An excellent walk yesterday for those meeting at Kilndown for a circular walk to Bedgebury Pinetum. Before setting off, we paid a visit to the church in Kilndown which has some interesting wood inlaid panels and stained glass windows.  The overnight rain had given us a welcome respite from the hot, muggy heat of the past few days, although we all got wet feet walking through the long grass on our way! The weather was perfect for walking.  This year we were able to spend longer exploring the pinetum as part of our lunch stop; we are so lucky to have this on our doorstep.  It has the most complete collection of conifers in the world, dating back to the 1840s, and has been managed by the Forestry Commission since 1925.  Back at Kilndown, we had drinks at the Smallholding, a new gastro pub/restaurant which specialises in home grown/produced veg and meet.  Thanks to all that joined us; a wonderful day with wonderful company.