Discovering Kent's Hardy Orchids

As for orchids, there are twenty eight-ish species of hardy orchids that grow wild in Kent, and visits to some of the prime sites would be arranged. All are public land and require no permission. As well as orchids, there are other plants as well as bird and isnect species, as a walk in the country is never wasted.

The peak month of the season is May, when multiple visits would be arranged.

It is important to stress that many site are accessible via steep banks or long woodland walks. A good degree of mobility would be required. Driving is essential.

Locations/meets would be:

1. Marden Meadow. Early May for tens of thousands of Green Wing Orchids. Parking on site, level and easy going.
2. Park Gate Down, Elham Valley. Downland site, about 1 mile walking, steep slopes, but several species. End of May.
3. Bonsai Bank, near Chartham. Woodland clearing, not so steep, but a walk through woodland of a mile there and back is required. End of May.
4. Monkton Nature Reserve. June. Orchids, birds, reptiles, dragonflies. Entrance fee, approx £7.00/
5. Sandwich Bay. Entrance fee onto Sandwich Bay Estate to be paid, though just £1.00 if you park at the observatory, which we will. Orchids, botany, dragon and damsel flies. Birds. May/June. Walk of about a mile, flat, but sandy.
6. Temple Ewell Down. August. One species of august, plus butterflies and other botanic finds. Very steep climb, views are stunning.