A Historical Walk from Farthing common to nearby villages Guided Walks
Winter Stroll from Farthing Common
A quick intro
Join us on a festive “Winter Solstice” walk as we set out from Farthing Common Car Park, one of the best viewpoints in Kent, to explore charming villages, sweeping landscapes, and fascinating tales of history.
Walk Highlights:
Start at Farthing Common Car Park with stunning panoramic views.
Follow the North Downs Way to the picturesque village of Postling.
Pass over Summerhouse Hill with its scenic ridges.
Explore the villages of Newington and Peene.
Walk the old railway line route through the Elham Valley to Ethinghill.
Return along the North Downs Way to our starting point.
The details about a historical walk from farthing common to nearby villages
the details
Schedule
Date: 21 December 2025
Meet and Start Time: 09:15 meet for 09:30 am start
Walking time: 4.5 hrs (incl. lunch break)
Staff Member: Ben Crozier
Location
Meeting point: Farthing Common Car Park, Stone Street, CT18 8DH
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Car Parking: Charges not included
Route
Terrain: There will be a series of hills and as we are going up onto the North Downs and then down them it will be quite steep at points.
Distance: Approximately 13.2 km (8.2 miles)
Walk Type: Circular
your kit list
- Suitable footwear (preferably walking boots or sturdy shoes, no flip-flops)
- A waterproof coat (and waterproof trousers, if you have them) for rainy days
- Drinking water and a packed lunch
- Personal medication (Let us know confidentially about any medical conditions)
- Suitable walking attire
important notes
- We welcome friendly dogs on our walks, provided they remain on a lead at all times. The owner is fully responsible for their dog throughout the walk.
- We take photos during our walks for promotional and training purposes. If you prefer not to be included, just let us know on the day.
- Cancellation policy states: Full payment becomes due if a user cancels within 4 days of the activity. Any person cancelling outside of 4 days, will receive a credit available to use within 90 days. Cancel at least 4 days before the event to receive a credit note for a future walk, valid for 90 days.
Learn more aboutthis wonderful walk
Join us for a fascinating winter walk through the heart of the North Downs, exploring charming villages, woodland trails, and historic routes steeped in local lore.
We’ll begin at Farthing Common Car Park, famous for offering some of the best panoramic views in Kent. From this vantage point, we’ll follow the North Downs Way, taking in sweeping vistas over the surrounding countryside before descending towards the picturesque village of Postling. Along the way, the winter light and open farmland make for a perfectly scenic stroll, ideal for photography or simply enjoying the calm of the season.
The route then climbs gently via Summerhouse Hill, opening out to more quiet lanes and the historic villages of Newington and Peene. Here, the mix of ancient cottages, local farmsteads, and rolling fields creates a wonderfully traditional Kentish landscape.
Next, we’ll follow the route of the old railway line, tracing the Elham Valley all the way to Ethinghill. This historic path is lined with woodland and hedgerows, offering a glimpse into Kent’s industrial past while still feeling peaceful and secluded.
Throughout the walk, our guides will bring the history of the area to life. Hear tales of railway guns smashing windows during wartime, ghostly aircraft careening over local forests, and the ambitious 19th-century plans to build a tunnel under the sea — all stories that give this walk a real sense of intrigue and adventure.
Finally, we’ll return along the North Downs Way to Farthing Common, completing a circular route that blends history, nature, and spectacular winter scenery.