is the Malta Inn, offering food, drink and a riverside garden, and just across the bridge you may see the lock gates being opened to allow boats to travel upstream from the tidal part of the river, or vice versa. If you would like to explore the river with your family and at your own pace, then a boat from Allington Belle day hire can take up to eight people. You can go for just two hours or a day and these craft can go as far as Tonbridge. If you’re new to boating, don’t worry, driving instruction is given.
Can you canoe? If you enjoy canoeing there are adventures to be had along the river with the two-day canoe trail, a 31km route from Tonbridge to Allington, which has camping stops along the way. A free guide and map are available from the Environment Agency. Or if you are inexperienced or don’t have your own canoe, try the Canoe Safari – great entertainment for all the family, especially older children who are able to paddle themselves. Trips run from Tonbridge to Yalding on specific dates and courses can also be arranged. Contact Kent Canoe Safaris on 01732 886688.
Waterside walking If you are a confirmed landlubber, then some excellent footpaths run next to the Medway and into the surrounding countryside, often making circular walks taking in tea rooms or pubs for that essential thirst-quenching break. The Medway Valley Walk follows a
linear route of about 28 miles along the banks of the river from Tonbridge Castle to Rochester, heading via Yalding, Wateringbury, Teston, East Farleigh and Maidstone. This long distance walk takes you through traditional Kentish countryside with hop gardens and orchards as well as picturesque and
MAJORS LAKES FISHING SYNDICATE A beautiful Lake set in a 5 acre woodland
Stocked with Carp up to 25lb plus
Tench, Roach, Perch, Barbel & Chub
interesting villages. Serious walkers might like to do it all in one or two sections, but if you prefer a more leisurely pace the route can be completed in short sections over a number of days. You could stop off at Yalding with its
tea shops, country pubs and Teapot Island, complete with its collection of thousands of teapots. Or on the section past Maidstone, try Aylesford where you can enjoy the tranquil surroundings of The Friars and spend some time feeding the ducks. For cyclists, the footpaths between Maidstone and Yalding are particularly pretty to explore.
FRESHLY
RESTOCKED WITH SILVER
FISH THIS YEAR!!
Memberships start at just £85 per adult
£40 for children under 16 Tel: 01795 880441 ~
keely@swattwood.com www.countrysports.co 22 Mid Kent Living Above image and bottom right, courtesy of Gary Neave
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