East Woods

Wood, Forest in Kent Tonbridge and Malling

England

East Woods

The Parish Church of St Lawrence, Mereworth Grade I listed

The church was built for the 7th Earl of Westmorland, John Fane, in 1744 to 1746, probably to a design by Roger Morris. It replaced the mediaeval church next to the castle when the castle was enlarged.

The church was designed like a Roman basilica. The ornate tower and spire are similar to several significant town churches, for examples St Martins-in-the-fields. The Palladian-style stone structure has been described as &quot;the outstanding 18th-century church in the county, in scale, ambition and architectural interest&quot;

Mediaeval monuments and 16th and 17th century round glass from the earlier church were incorporated, and there are several 19th-century windows. The Lady Chapel to the south west of the church contains a tomb to Sir Thomas Fane (1510-1598) and his wife Mary, with their sons Francis and George kneeling at the base.

In 2009 the church underwent an extensive program of restoration, the spire was strengthened and the clock and bells were refurbished. — The Parish Church of St Lawrence, Mereworth Credit: PAUL FARMER

East Woods is a large wooded area located in the county of Kent, England. It is renowned for its dense forest and picturesque landscapes, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike. The woods cover an expansive area of approximately 500 acres and are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

The woodland is predominantly composed of deciduous trees such as oak, beech, and birch, which provide an enchanting canopy that changes with the seasons. The forest floor is carpeted with an array of wildflowers, ferns, and mosses, creating a vibrant and magical atmosphere.

East Woods is crisscrossed by a network of well-maintained trails, allowing visitors to explore the area and appreciate its natural beauty. These trails cater to individuals of varying fitness levels, offering options for leisurely strolls as well as more challenging hikes. Along the way, visitors may encounter charming bridges spanning babbling brooks and encounter an abundance of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and a plethora of bird species.

The woods are also home to several designated picnic areas, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy a meal amidst the tranquility of nature. Additionally, there are information points dotted throughout the woods, offering educational insights into the local flora and fauna.

Overall, East Woods in Kent is a captivating destination that offers a serene and immersive experience in the heart of nature. Whether it's a leisurely walk, a family picnic, or a bird-watching adventure, East Woods provides a perfect retreat for all nature lovers.

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East Woods Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.251579/0.39443149 or Grid Reference TQ6752. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The Parish Church of St Lawrence, Mereworth

Grade I listed The church was built for the 7th Earl of Westmorland, John Fane, in 1744 to 1746, probably to a design by Roger Morris. It replaced the mediaeval church next to the castle when the castle was enlarged. The church was designed like a Roman basilica. The ornate tower and spire are similar to several significant town churches, for examples St Martins-in-the-fields. The Palladian-style stone structure has been described as "the outstanding 18th-century church in the county, in scale, ambition and architectural interest" Mediaeval monuments and 16th and 17th century round glass from the earlier church were incorporated, and there are several 19th-century windows. The Lady Chapel to the south west of the church contains a tomb to Sir Thomas Fane (1510-1598) and his wife Mary, with their sons Francis and George kneeling at the base. In 2009 the church underwent an extensive program of restoration, the spire was strengthened and the clock and bells were refurbished.

PAUL FARMER

Wateringbury from Hunt Street

Even without the hedge the River Medway and railway line would be out of sight down in the valley

Ron Lee

View to Wateringbury

Oast House Archive

View to Rock Farm

Oast House Archive

View to Nettlestead caravan parks

Oast House Archive

Pizien Well

This is Pizien Well Road in the hamlet of Pizien Well to the west of Wateringbury. The road crosses a stream here which forms the lakes in Mereworth Park and in due course meets the River Medway near Wateringbury Bridge.

Marathon

Oast house at Canon Court Farm

This oast house is a little off the beaten track and has not been converted into a dwelling. For more information on this example see Link

Marathon

Oast house at Canon Court Farm

This oast house is a little off the beaten track and has not been converted into a dwelling. For more information on this example see Link

Marathon

Pizien Well

This is Pizien Well Road in the hamlet of Pizien Well, to the west of Wateringbury. Old Road on the right leads to Wateringbury. The road crosses a stream here which forms the lakes in Mereworth Park and in due course meets the River Medway near Wateringbury Bridge.

Marathon

Little Canon

This is a little off the beaten track. Although not far from Kings Hill it is not accessible from there but only from Tonbridge Road (A26) to the south. A dog was guarding the house - it can just be seen through the gate.

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Approaching St Michaels Church from Pizienwell

Ron Lee

Worcester Avenue, Kings Hill

Kings Hill was developed from 1969 on the site of the former RAF West Malling. More detail about Kings Hill can be seen at Link

RAF West Malling had a long and distinguished history from the First World War, through the air shows of the 1930s and the Second World War when it was a front line airfield against the Luftwaffe. After the War, West Malling was in use throughout the 1950s and early 1960s as Britain's premier night fighter station before closure as an operational air station in 1969. A fuller history of West Malling Airfield can be seen at Link

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Worcester Avenue, Kings Hill

Kings Hill was developed from 1969 on the site of the former RAF West Malling. More detail about Kings Hill can be seen at Link

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Lodge to Mereworth Castle

There are a pair of lodges, either side of a driveway. They are now on the north side of Tonbridge Road whereas they were originally, like Mereworth Castle, on the south side. The road has been moved.

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Avenue from Mereworth Castle

This is on the north side of Tonbridge Road. The avenue continues on the south side to Mereworth Castle. In this direction it merely reaches King's Hill.

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