Taddington Valley

Taddington Valley, which is owned and managed by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, is made up of a long thin area of grassland with steep wooded sides covering a total area of 36 acres, and makes an interesting change to the suburban residential area all around it.

There are thirteen entrances and exits to the valley, meaning the area is well used as a cut-through or by local residents walking their dogs or simply enjoying the natural surroundings. The woodland is a remnant of Taddington Wood, once part of a larger woodland complex that was an important part of the local economy. Trees were coppiced for a regular source of wood, with hornbeam being used in the manufacture of gunpowder.

Coppicing is still carried out in the area with regeneration of wood taking only a few years. This traditional method of woodland management helps to increase the range of both flora and fauna in the park. Tree species include sweet chestnut, beech, oak, ash, wild cherry, hawthorn and hazel, while the open grassy areas can be used for ballgames or picnicking in summertime.

Easy access information: This park and open space contains uneven trails, un-surfaced or narrow pathways. Also, there are width restricting features, such as stiles and narrow gaps making it difficult for visitors with pushchairs and/or wheelchairs to access some parts of the site.

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