Location: The Warren, Folkestone

Date: 21st December 2023

Blog Written by: Gini (Disabled Walk Leader/Founder)

Today's stroll and roll started off with a heavy drizzle which cleared up as we headed off for our Festive/ Winter Solstice get together at Folkestone Warren.

There were still some large puddles and pot holes to navigate along the track. Strong winds had been forecast, but while it was calm, we headed down to the sea wall. We were greeted with a green hue of the sea and cloudy sky which the sun occasionally peered through. We always take time to notice the colours of the sea and sky on our sessions.

The tide was far out, so we took advantage of venturing towards Samphire Hoe this time, to avoid any overtopping.

We stopped on the sea wall, with the sound of the waves crashing on the concrete wall as our soundtrack. We shared our hot drinks and snacks. Then, we ventured on and noticed fresh chalk rock falls, and looked for flint amongst the rubble. We learnt about the formation of chalk and flint. We also looked high up on the Cliffs and studied the plant life living along the cliff face and crevices.

We learnt about the importance of the sea wall and its formation to protect the SSI landscape behind from erosion.

We headed back, facing a strong headwind and dark rain clouds looming above. Fortunately the rain held off. We all enjoyed the refreshing feeling afterwards. The wind certainly blows the cobwebs away.

This was our last walk for 2023. We'll be returning in the new year. We're looking forward to our Rock and Fossil themed Nature Craft session at Fort Burgoyne on 11th January. We'll be joined by local Geologist, Simon Drake.

📸 Image Credit: Gini Mitchell