Walks Through History: Kent. Walk 9. West Malling: Norman feudalism in action (5 miles)

In 2007 John Wilks updated his bestselling Walks Through History: Kent book. When JMD Media were asked to make this book available as an e-book, we decided to give the customer a choice. You can buy the whole book with all 24 walks for full price, or just buy an individual walk as a taster or because there is one walk which is of particular interest. Each individual walk includes the original map showing all of the WALK 9

West Mailing: Norman feudalism in action

Distance: 5 miles

Map: OS sheet 178 or 188

Start and Parking: The walk starts from Manor Park Country Park (grid ref: 679571) at the southern end of West Malling, which is itself just south of the junction of the A20 and the A228, 10 miles east of Sevenoaks and six miles west of Maidstone. The country park is signposted from both A roads.

Refreshments: Public houses, tearooms and shops in West Malling, public house in Offham.

Walks Through History: Kent is a celebration of the beauty and poetry of the county. Each walk in this book has been chosen not only because it is a pleasant walk in its own right, but also because it goes past sites which reveal the rich and varied history of the county.

Each walk is arranged chronologically, and has a major historical theme. Together they take the walker through 4,000 years of Kentish history. The introduction shows how each of the walks fits into the overall history of the county, a history that is very much shaped by Kents proximity to Europe. For through migration, trade and invasion, Kent has had close contact with the continent throughout its history. As with all walking books detailed directions are given, including parking convenient stopping or resting places, and suggested diversions or alternatives.

The book is sure to appeal to locals and tourist alike.

About the author

John Wilks has been a professional historical guide and a history teacher, and is a branch secretary of the Historical Association. He is also an enthusiastic member of the Rambler's Association and has written a number of walking books with historical themes.

If you like walking and writing and would like to contribute to the Walking Around Britain series JMD Media Ltd are developing, please contact steve.caron@jmdmedia.co.uk.