151, Chatham to West Malling and Kings Hill

Journey Overview

If ever there was a journey of contrasts, this is it. The grand sense of occasion of Chatham Waterfront and its bustling, diverse town centre gives way to panoramic Medway views, through the Valley, into the heart of Kentish countryside, through a wonderful market town and into chic modern day residences, set in a lovely rural setting.

The bus departs from Chatham Waterfront and customers are greeted with a dynamic panorama of the River Medway, where boats bob gently on the water under the watchful gaze of historic dockyard cranes. The waterfront’s industrial heritage blends seamlessly with modern developments, creating a captivating juxtaposition of old and new.

As the bus makes its way further through Chatham, the scenery transitions to bustling streets lined with Victorian-era buildings, their ornate facades reflecting the town’s rich maritime history.

Through Rochester, the adventure continues, with its Victorian grandeur, evoking a sense of bygone elegance in this town that was a favourite of Charles Dickins, who owned nearby Gads Place in Highham. Many of Dickens’ novels are based on the Medway area.

The journey through Strood offers glimpses of quaint neighbourhoods, a mish mash of shops and leafy avenues, with glimpses of the Medway Valley countryside peeking through the urban sprawl.

Onto Cuxton, where customers are treated to expansive views of rolling green hills and fertile farmland, a tranquil respite from the bustle and energy that has gone before on this adventure. The quaint village of Upper Halling then appears like something out of a postcard, with its charming cottages and idyllic setting, including more wonderful views over the Medway Valley.

Halling Station provides a brief pause in the journey, surrounded by picturesque countryside and framed by the distant silhouette of the North Downs. Snodland, meanwhile, offers a glimpse of rural village life, with its quaint streets and welcoming atmosphere, with the opportunity for great riverside walks and a visit to the Holborough Marshes Nature Reserve, with its grazing marsh and plenty of wildfowl.

The journey continues through Leybourne, where customers catch sight of the historic Leybourne Church, its ancient spire reaching towards the sky. Close by is Leybourne Lakes Country Park, another haven for wildlife lovers and ramblers. On through West Malling the bus goes and this charming market town with its attractive buildings, including the idyllic St Mary the Virgin Parish Church, fine dining restaurants, artisan cafes and local florists. The bus skirts close to the Manor Park Country Park and the scenery is great – of wildflower meadows, woodland copses and plenty of fab walking trails.

Finally, the bus arrives at Kings Hill, a modern development nestled amidst the Kent countryside. Here, contemporary architecture blends harmoniously with green spaces, slightly plush and spacious residences for the up and coming, creating a vibrant and dynamic community. It’s a fitting denouement for a journey that has weaved rural serenity with a buzz of modern day Kentish life. A trip not to be missed!

A Fab Day Out!