Nap Wood drovers walk
Kent
Take a tranquil stroll in Nap Wood, home to a diverse array of wildlife, from the mature trees towering above you to the vivid displays of bluebells that decorate the woodland floor in late spring.
Near to
Scotney CastleStart point
A267 lay-by, grid ref: TQ581329Trail information
Total stages: 5
Total stages: 5
Start point
A267 lay-by, grid ref: TQ581329
Stage 1
From the lay-by, follow the well-trodden track, an ancient drovers' road, into the woods. Just before you enter the woods, take a look behind you towards Saxonbury Hill Fort (not on accessible land).
Stage 2
Continue along the drovers road, ignoring a path that crosses your route. After a short while, you come to a yew tree on the corner to your right. Another old sunken drovers road leads off from here, that you can head up for a short detour. Local folklore says that the tracks here once led to a hunting lodge for King John called Lightlands (still visible on maps of the area), so you could be walking in the footsteps of royalty.
Stage 3
This detour leads you to more impressive old yew trees. After reaching them, turn back and rejoin the main trail.
Stage 4
The track goes downhill for a short while before levelling off again.
Stage 5
Carry on through the woods, listening out for the rustle of dormice or woodpeckers drumming the dead trees. The track winds its way up a fairly steep hill until you are back at the lay-by.
End point
A267 lay-by, grid ref: TQ581329
Trail map
Map route for Nap Wood drovers walk | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey
Scotney parkland trail
Follow the trail to discover historic parkland, take in the view of Scotney Castle and discover fascinating features of the Scotney estate in Kent.
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