Mereworth Woods

South west of Maidstone.

Site Description

Mereworth Woods is a small area of very rural Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland. It is part of the Metropolitan Green Belt, lies within a Special Landscape Area and is a Site of Nature Conservation Interest.

Mereworth Dry Training Area is just over 300 acres, mainly mixed broadleaf woodland and some conifer plantations. There is a small area of acid heath, (rare in Kent) and an abundance of wildlife including reptiles and small mammals. The area is used heavily at weekends and regularly during the week by small units with no heavy armour or live firing permitted. Blank firing and limited pyrotechnics are used and there is a helicopter landing site that is used occasionally.

Access Opportunities

There is a footpath and bridleway running through the Training Area. The bridleway connects up with a popular local route across the busy B2016.

OS Map References

OS Landranger Sheet 188
(Maidstone - The Weald of Kent) 1:50,000

OS Explorer Sheet 148
(Maidstone & The Medway Towns) 1:25,000