As part of our mission to promote walking in our local area we have developed seven walks in and around the Elham Valley catering for both the casual and the seasoned walker. Ranging from 3.5 miles (the Exted Amble) to the challenging Elham Ring (20 miles), the routes pass through a wide variety of landscapes, villages and points of interest, with all walks beginning and ending in The Square, Elham.
Downloadable files of the main map as well as direction sheets for each route can be found below.
0: MAP OF ALL OF THE WALKS
1: EXTED AMBLE 3.5m 2hrs easy
The shortest of the walks, its route climbs steadily out of the Valley with views to the north before passing through woodland. A flat section leads on to Exted then the path turns east through a valley back to Elham.
2: WOODS AND CHALK MEADOW 5.1m 2.5hrs moderate
This undemanding and picturesque walk takes in valleys, pasture, Beech woodland and chalk downs, with, subject to the time of year, fields of wild garlic, bluebells and rare orchids on the Park gate Down SSSI.
3: BOTH SIDES OF THE VALLEY 7.9m 4 hrs moderate
The woods on this walk are beautiful all year round and there are great views along the valley as you head back towards Elham. Allow plenty of time, especially if you plan to stop off at the Vineyard café.
4: VIA THE WYCH ELMS 6.1m 3hrs moderate
This walk traverses the wooded valleys to the east before heading north toward Denton. Passing via the Wych Elms at the halfway point, the route returns along the Elham Valley Way with lovely views back to the village.
5: TO ACRISE AND BACK 4.3m 2.5hrs easy
This scenic walk to the east of Elham crosses fields and quiet wooded valleys. The hamlet of Acrise is at the half way point, and further on a short detour takes you to St Martin’s Church in the grounds of Acrise Place.
6: CHURCHES AND PUBS 7.3m 4hrs moderate
A longer walk which can take in visits to the local churches at Paddlesworth, Lyminge and Elham, and the local pubs (or both!), with great views along the way, especially to the north from Mill Down.
7: THE ELHAM RING 20m 8hrs demanding
A great day’s walk following the outer boundaries of the six other routes. Covering the wide variety of landscapes in and around the Elham Valley, the route also passes local landmarks, cafes and pubs.
Elham Valley Walkers 