Guided Nature Tour: Pilgrims Way & Bigbury Fort

Set out on a captivating nature tour along the Pilgrims Way, culminating at the historic Bigbury Fort. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll learn about Iron Age history and enjoy a scenic walk, complemented by wildlife viewing. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour emphasizes Shinrin-yoku, promoting mental well-being through nature. Engage in identifying local flora and fauna, all while appreciating the area’s significance. This unique experience promises to delight the senses and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the great outdoors.

Key Points

• 2.5-hour guided nature tour starting from Chartham Hatch Village Hall, with a focus on the history of Bigbury Camp and wildlife viewing in No Mans Orchard.
• Tour led by Greg, a Farm Environmental Advisor, emphasizing Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) for stress reduction and mental health improvement.
• Exploration of the Iron Age fort at Bigbury Camp, including its ramparts, gateways, and roundhouses, providing historical context.
• 45-minute wildlife viewing session in the semi-ancient woodland of No Mans Orchard, with assistance in identifying mushrooms, plants, and birds.
• Recommended for participants aged 5 and above, with sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing advised.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The guided nature tour offers participants the opportunity to explore the Pilgrims Way and Bigbury Fort over the course of 2.5 hours.

Starting from Chartham Hatch Village Hall, the tour provides a chance to save up to 25%, with prices ranging from $19.42 to $14.56 per person.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also features a reservation option with a pay later option.

Participants will have the chance to identify mushrooms, plants, and birds, as well as learn about the area’s rich history.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights a journey through Chartham Hatch Village Hall, Bigbury Camp, and No Mans Orchard.

At Bigbury Camp, guests enjoy a guided tour and 45-minute walk, learning about the area’s rich Iron Age history.

In No Mans Orchard, they spend 45 minutes wildlife viewing.

A 20-minute tea/coffee break with woodland views provides a chance to rest.

Throughout, the guide helps identify mushrooms, plants, and birds, while discussing the region’s ecology and history.

The experience emphasizes forest bathing to reduce stress and improve mental well-being, with identification guides provided.

Guided Experience

Guided by Greg, a Farm Environmental Advisor with experience leading tours on the Great Barrier Reef, participants can expect an immersive and educational nature experience.

The tour emphasizes:

• Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) to reduce stress and improve mental health

• Identification guides for mushrooms and invertebrates provided

• Discussions on the area’s rich history, including its Iron Age past

• Peaceful atmosphere of the semi-ancient woodland

Participants will have the opportunity to identify various mushrooms, plants, and birds while gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural environment.

Enjoy nature, identifying mushrooms, plants, and birds to deepen your appreciation for the natural world.

The focus is on creating a mindful, educational, and enjoyable interaction with nature.

History and Nature

Perched atop a prominent hill, Bigbury Camp holds a treasure trove of historical significance. During the guided tour, visitors explore the captivating past of this ancient Iron Age fort. They’ll learn about the strategic importance of its location, the construction techniques used by its inhabitants, and the intriguing artifacts that have been unearthed over the years.

| Feature | Detail | Significance |

| — | — | — |

| Ramparts | Massive earthen walls | Defensive fortifications |

| Gateways | Narrow, winding entrances | Controlled access |

| Roundhouses | Circular stone foundations | Residential structures |

The tour also explores the surrounding semi-ancient woodland, where participants can enjoy the serene natural environment and identify a variety of flora and fauna.

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Mushroom and Plant Identification

As participants wander through the semi-ancient woodland, they’ll have the opportunity to identify a variety of mushrooms and plants with the guidance of the knowledgeable tour leader.

The tour emphasizes engaging the senses and connecting with nature, providing:

• Identification guides for diverse mushroom species, from vibrant caps to intricate gills

• Insights into the ecological roles of fungi in the forest ecosystem

• Discoveries of unique plant life, from delicate wildflowers to resilient ferns

• An appreciation for the interconnectedness of the natural world through hands-on exploration.

Wildlife Viewing

Along With identifying mushrooms and plants, the nature tour provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Participants can spot a variety of birds during the walk, including woodpeckers, warblers, and finches. The guide is well-versed in local bird species and will point out their unique characteristics and behaviors.

During the nature walk, participants can spot a variety of birds, including woodpeckers, warblers, and finches, as the guide points out their unique traits.

The semi-ancient woodland also offers a chance to glimpse deer, rabbits, and squirrels in their natural habitats.

The 45-minute stop at No Man’s Orchard is particularly rich in wildlife, allowing visitors to quietly observe the diverse ecosystem.

The guide encourages participants to use their senses and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.

Refreshment Break

Halfway through the tour, participants enjoy a 20-minute tea or coffee break while taking in the serene views of the surrounding woodland.

This brief respite provides a chance to:

• Recharge and reflect on the immersive experience

• Discuss the historical insights and natural wonders observed

• Connect with fellow explorers and exchange perspectives

• Appreciate the tranquility of the semi-ancient forest setting

The break allows visitors to pause, rejuvenate, and deepen their connection with the natural environment before continuing the guided journey through the Pilgrims Way and Bigbury Fort.

Participant Requirements

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 years old or individuals with mobility impairments or those who use wheelchairs.

Participants should dress in weather-appropriate clothing and wear sturdy footwear. Bringing snacks and water is recommended.

Dress in weather-appropriate clothing and wear sturdy footwear. Bringing snacks and water is recommended.

The tour focuses on identifying mushrooms, plants, and birds, as well as learning about the area’s rich history. Participants can expect to engage in Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, to reduce stress and improve mental health.

Identification guides for mushrooms and invertebrates will be provided to enhance the educational experience.

The Sum Up

The guided nature tour along Pilgrims Way and Bigbury Fort offers a unique opportunity to take in the area’s rich Iron Age history while enjoying the benefits of Shinrin-yoku. Led by an experienced Farm Environmental Advisor, the tour promises an engaging and informative experience, with highlights including wildlife viewing, mushroom and plant identification, and a scenic walk at Bigbury Camp. Participants can expect a 2.5-hour adventure that promotes mental well-being through the appreciation of nature.

You can check availability for your dates here: