Highlands Wood

Wood, Forest in Kent

England

Highlands Wood

Swanley Full Gospel Church On Hockenden Lane. Albert Viney Ltd, Upper Hockenden Farm is behind small church. — Swanley Full Gospel Church Credit: David Anstiss

Highlands Wood, located in Kent, England, is a picturesque and expansive woodland area renowned for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystem. Covering an area of approximately 100 hectares, the wood is part of the larger High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The wood is characterized by its dense canopy of broadleaf trees, predominantly consisting of oak, beech, and birch. These trees provide a haven for a variety of wildlife, including deer, badgers, foxes, and numerous species of birds. The wood is particularly renowned for its rich birdlife, with sightings of woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds being common.

Visitors to Highlands Wood can explore its numerous pathways and trails, which wind their way through the tranquil woodland. These paths offer opportunities for both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes, catering to visitors of all ages and fitness levels. The wood is also a popular destination for dog walkers, providing a peaceful and natural environment for both pets and their owners.

In addition to its natural beauty, Highlands Wood also holds historical significance. It is believed to have been a part of the ancient Forest of Andredsweald, which covered a vast area of southern England during the medieval period. The wood has remnants of ancient earthworks and boundaries, adding to its cultural and historical value.

Overall, Highlands Wood in Kent is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and immersive woodland experience.

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Highlands Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.397648/0.13150258 or Grid Reference TQ4868. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Swanley Full Gospel Church

On Hockenden Lane. Albert Viney Ltd, Upper Hockenden Farm is behind small church.

David Anstiss

A20 goes over Hockenden Lane.

A20 Dual Carriageway road bridge goes left to Maidstone (via M20) or to M25, from London. Lane leads under bridge to Hockenden Wood from Swanley.

David Anstiss

Footbridge near Swanley

This bridge is on a footpath from Stone Cross Road, Crockenhill towards Lynden Way. It crosses over the railway between Swanley and St Mary Cray.

David Anstiss

Railway to St Mary Cray

As seen from TQ5068 : Footbridge near Swanley This line leads from Swanley leading to London (via St Mary Cray).

David Anstiss

Footpath beside the railway

A path leads from Stone Cross Road, over the railway (via a footbridge) and then through Bourne Wood heading towards Lydden Way, Swanley. Note; footpath does not match OS map due to development work beside the A20.

David Anstiss

Track towards Hockenden

A track (and footpath) leads from Lydden Way, Swanley to Bourne Wood and then towards Hockenden Lane.

David Anstiss

Wild flowers in a field edge near Bourne Wood

The footpath from Bourne Wood and the edge of Swanley is on the left as it heads towards Hockenden. The A20 is just off to the right and Joydens Wood is on the horizon.

Marathon

Footpath from Bourne Wood to Hockenden

The footpath from Bourne Wood and the edge of Swanley heads towards Hockenden. The A20 is just off to the right and Joydens Wood is on the horizon.

Marathon

Wild flowers alongside a footpath near Bourne Wood

Wild flowers brighten up the footpath from Bourne Wood and the edge of Swanley as it heads towards Hockenden. The A20 is just off to the right and Joydens Wood is on the right hand horizon.

Marathon

A20 near Swanley

The sign is blue rather than green (as would be expected on an A-road) because the services to which it refers are all on motorways (M20 or M25).

David Dixon

Footbridge over The A20 near Swanley

The A20 runs from the London Borough of Lewisham to Dover, Kent. It runs through the major towns of Maidstone, Ashford and Folkestone, terminating at the port of Dover.

David Dixon

Sayes Court Road, St Mary Cray

Houses on Sayes Court Road in St Mary Cray, in the outer suburbs of South East London.

Malc McDonald

Houses on Leesons Hill, St Mary Cray

Houses on Leesons Hill, in St Mary Cray in the outer suburbs of south east London. This image was taken at around midday on a very sunny October day. The shadows are nevertheless longer than during the summer months, as the sun is lower in the sky.

Malc McDonald

Murray Road, St Mary Cray

Murray Road accesses a small industrial estate in St Mary Cray, in the outer suburbs of south east London.

Malc McDonald

Warehouse in St Mary Cray

A warehouse in St Mary Cray, in the outer suburbs of south east London.

Malc McDonald

Railway viaduct, St Mary Cray

A railway viaduct in St Mary Cray, in the outer suburbs of south east London. The viaduct carries the main line from London to Chatham, Dover and the Isle of Thanet. Look closely at the viaduct arches, and it may become obvious that it is two structures, one behind the other. The railway line originally had two tracks, carried by the viaduct further back. Two more tracks were added in the late 1950s, which meant the viaduct needed to be widened. This was done by adding the section of viaduct in front, closer to the camera.

Malc McDonald