A Day Out to...Kearsney Abbey
and Russell Gardens
These two parks are situated across the road from
each other on the outskirts of Dover. To get to them from Folkestone,
you can travel by bus, car or train. Take the Train to Dover and
change for one to Kearsney or take a bus or go by car down the
Alkham Valley Road from Folkestone. (This starts where the road
from Hawkinge to Folkestone crosses the A20 dual carriageway).
There are several car parks available once you get there.
Russell Gardens, on the North side of the road,
were laid out in 1901 and take advantage of the wonderfully clear
water flowing from a nearby spring. The water is directed through
a series of scenic lakes and waterfalls.
The setting is very tranquil and throughout the
area the water is so clear that the bottom of the lake can always
be seen.
The ornamental gardens laid out around the bottom
of the Russell Gardens area change throughout the season and also
contain a small play area with swings and such like.
There are many seats to sit on and side paths to
explore
Once above the ornamental lakes there is a further
larger lake surrounded by woodland which itself has further paths
within it. In spring the area is full of snowdrops, bulbs and
other woodland flowers.
Once you have explored Russell Gardens, there is
more to see across the Road at the much larger Kearsney Abbey
lake. The stream passes under the road then along a series of
culverts into the lake which has several islands within it that
are home to a large number of ducks, swans and the like. A tearoom
is also here for a relaxing snack with a view and there are also
toilet facilities.
The parks can get busy on sunny days but are well
worth a visit. Watch out for the seagulls though!
Other Days Out
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