Upper Halling and the lost village of Dode

A rural walk with lovely autumn colour, partly along the North Downs Way, through meadows, along quiet woodland paths and some rough tracks.

Steep ascent at the start up to the North Downs Way, long flat section along the top of the North Downs Way, drop down to the Lost Village of Dode.  Brief stop at Dode Church before another gradual ascent to Holly Hill.  Passing Holly Hill House, then a 15 min nibble break (bring your own refreshments) in the meadow and parkland.  Views of the Medway Valley.  Drop down through woodland, along a lane back to Court Farm.  Distant views of the Medway Bridge, Rochester Castle and the Cathedral spire.

Dode Church (now deconsecrated) is a tiny Norman building.  The village of Dode was wiped out by the Black Death in 1349.