Lost Village of Dode Walk and Talk

Join the Putting Down Routes team for a ramble through one of the most beautiful and hidden parts of the Kent Downs National Landscape. Although less than 10 miles from Gravesend, this route is really off the beaten track and feels alot more remote than it actually is. Starting at Holly Hill Wood car park, we will walk through woods, farmland and valleys, before ending up at the historic Lost Village of Dode, which was abandoned over 600 years ago during the Black Death. Here, we will be invited into the church (no longer used for Christian worship) where we will be given a talk about the history, myths and legends of this magical place.

🌳 Nature walk

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⏰ What is the duration of this event? The walk will last around 3 hours including the talk at the end

📏 What is the distance of the walk? 4 miles

🔄 Is this a circular or linear walk? This is a circular walk, starting and finishing at Holly Hill Wood car park

🧭 Where is the meeting point? Please meet at Holly Hill Wood car park DA13 0UB

👩🏿‍🦱 Who can attend this walk This walk is open to all but the steep slopes and stiles en route mean that a certain level of fitness/mobility will be required. Please get in touch with the organiser if you have any specific concerns in this regard.

👨‍🦯 Is this walk suitable for those with those with physical, learning, or mental health needs? This walk is not suitable for those using mobility aids.

🚸 What ages is this suitable for? 10+. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

🚂 Is this walk accessible via public transport? Not really - the nearest station is Snodland but this is over an hour's walk away.

🅿 Is there parking? Yes. Parking at Holly Hill Wood.

🏞 What is the terrain like on this walk? It is suitable for anyone who is confident that they can walk this distance and climb a slope of 250 feet. The terrain is relatively easy although uneven with tree roots in places.

🚽 Are there toilets nearby? Toilets will be avilable at Dode, near the end of the walk. Otherwise, there are plenty of opportunties for 'wild wees'!

🐕 Is this walk dog-friendly? Friendly dogs are welcome on leads but larger dogs may be needed to be lifted over stiles.

☕ Is there somewhere to get refreshments? No. Due to the remote location, there are no shops or eating establishments en route. Please bring a packed lunch and plenty of water.

🪑 Is there seating options along the route? There are plenty of opportunities to sit on the grass, for a rest/ refreshments. Seating is be available at Dode, near the end of the walk.

🙏 Is there an opportunity to break for prayer if needed? People of all faiths are welcome to pray on the route. Please contact us beforehand if you have specific requirements for prayer.

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📷 Photos or videos are taken during the event for promotional and marketing purposes across the Kent Downs National Landscape, Aspiring Cross-Channel UNESCO Global Geopark and North Downs Way National Trail . Please notify the leader of your preferences and complete the consent form here.

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This event is part of the North Downs Way National Trail and Kent Downs National Landscape’s Putting Down Routes Project.

The Putting Down Routes project seeks to encourage new audiences from under-represented communities to the North Downs Way National Trail, as well as upgrading and enhancing parts of the trail so they are more accessible to a wider range of people.

The project aims to position the North Downs Way National Trail as a safe, inclusive and accessible destination where all are welcome.

Putting Down Routes is a collaborative project between the Kent Downs National Landscape and the North Downs Way National Trail, working with partners Black Girls Hike and Wild With Wheels. Putting Downs Routes is funded through The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Defra’s Farming in Protected Landscapes.