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March in the Kent Downs
As winter gives way to spring,
the Kent Downs National Landscape and aspiring Cross-Channel UNESCO
Global Geopark start to bloom with longer days and plenty of things
to see and do.
This month, we’re welcoming
the start of lambing season, discovering scenic walks, and enjoying
local events. Plus, we share our top tips for making the most of the
season while you explore the Downs.
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Events in the Kent Downs
There's
lots going on in our National Landscape and Cross-Channel Geopark
next month, here's a selection of upcoming events we think
you'll love.
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Half Term Trail
at Trosley Country Park
15th February - 2nd March
Bring your little ones along for an exciting outdoor adventure!
Follow the trail through the park, find hidden letters, and uncover a
secret word at the end.
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Dover
at Night 2025
at Dover
7th March
Enjoy
a free evening of art, music, storytelling, and more across 15
historic spaces in Dover. Drop by to see sculptures and create your
own tile artwork!
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Heart of Kent Walking
Festival 2025
at Maidstone
21st - 30th March
Celebrate spring by exploring the Kent Downs on foot! Choose from
vineyard walks, historic trails, and even a magical night-time walk
under the stars.
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Spring
Scavenger Trail
at Lullingstone Country Park
1st - 4th April
Pick up a scavenger trail sheet and explore at your own pace. Solve
puzzles, discover hidden clues, and learn more about the park’s
landscape along the way.
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Spring has arrived with lambs in the Kent
Downs
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Spring
wouldn’t be complete without the joyful sight of lambs bouncing
across the fields! Lambing season is a truly special time, and
we’ve put together a guide to help you experience it up
close.
From local farms offering hands-on experiences to unique lambing
events, our latest blog has all the details on where to go, what to
expect, and how you can make the most of this magical season.
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Experience the cross-channel geopark through
the eyes of students
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What connects the chalk
cliffs of Folkestone to the landscapes of Northern France? Last
October, students from both sides of the Channel set out to explore
that very question.
Gathering at Château
d’Hardelot, young storytellers from Folkestone, Le Wast,
Boulogne-sur-Mer, and Condette discovered the shared geology,
heritage, and history that bind our regions. Through poetry,
performance, and creativity, they brought these connections to
life—capturing the spirit of the Cross-Channel Geopark in a way only
they could.
Now, their journey is yours
to experience in a new film, created in collaboration with JimJam
Arts, Kent Downs National Landscape, and the Parc naturel régional
des Caps et Marais d’Opale.
This exciting project is
part of the Schools Climate Exchange and the GeoDiversity initiative,
bringing together creativity and learning, and made possible thanks
to the funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the
support of National Lottery players.
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Last call to help shape Kent's green
future!
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The
consultation for the Kent and Medway Local Nature Recovery Strategy
is closing soon, and this is your final chance to help shape the
future of our county’s landscapes and wildlife.
Your feedback will guide conservation efforts, ensuring Kent’s
natural spaces remain rich, vibrant, and full of life.
Don’t wait too long - the consultation closes on 12 March!
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Where to see bluebells this spring
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As
March arrives, so does the first hint of bluebells in the woodlands
of the Kent Downs. These beautiful flowers make the woodlands of
the Kent Downs come alive with shades of blue. From peaceful
afternoon strolls to weekend hikes, there’s no shortage of places
to experience the magic of bluebells in full bloom.
Take time to explore the ancient woodlands nearby and enjoy the
vibrant colors of spring. Just a gentle reminder: bluebells are
fragile, so be sure to stay on the paths and let these dreamy
flowers thrive.
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What lies beneath: a closer look at the Heritage Ponds
Project
After mapping more than 1,500 historic
ponds across the Kent Downs, we’ve started uncovering some
fascinating stories about the land we call home.
These ponds served many purposes over the centuries. Some were used
for livestock, others were medieval fishponds, or even cart-washes.
While old maps provide some clues, the real stories are hidden
beneath the surface.
With the help of volunteers, we’ve begun testing the silt in these
ponds. Archaeologists are uncovering ancient seed banks and pollen
samples, which are revealing what the environment looked like
hundreds of years ago. Even more exciting, radiocarbon dating is
helping us estimate the age of these ponds, shedding light on their
rich history.
As we move forward with the next phase of this project, we’re looking
forward to sharing these hidden stories of Kent’s past with you.
Project funded through Defra’s Farming In Protected Landscapes programme and The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
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Discover the Kent Downs on foot with White
Cliffs Ramblers
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If
you’re looking to explore the Kent Downs on foot, White Cliffs
Ramblers offers a great way to do just that. From scenic walks
around Folkestone and Dover to the beautiful Elham Valley, there’s
a variety of routes suitable for all abilities.
Walks are held most Sundays and Thursdays, and there’s no need to
book ahead. Just turn up, meet the group, and enjoy the fresh air
and stunning views with fellow walkers. You can join up to
three walks before deciding whether to become a member.
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