East Farleigh offers several starting points for exploring: a medieval bridge over the River Medway, a parish church with several building phases, riverside paths and a farm with rescued farm animals. When planning your visit, it is worth distinguishing between these different focuses. Heritage, outdoor activities and a visit to a farm offer different experiences here, rather than a set itinerary.
Bridge and Church: East Farleigh’s Building History
East Farleigh Bridge is a 14th-century road bridge built from Kentish Ragstone. It spans the River Medway between Barming to the north and East Farleigh to the south, and is designated a Scheduled Monument. This places a specific structure at the centre of attention, with its material, age and position by the river all contributing to its distinctive character.
Another aspect of the area’s building history is the Church of Saint Mary. The parish church combines fabric dating from the late 11th or 12th century, as well as the 13th, 14th and 15th centuries. J. L. Pearson restored the church in 1891. The west tower dates from the 13th century, though it may have older origins. Those interested in historic buildings will therefore find several periods represented here, rather than a single construction date. The tower’s possible earlier origins remain a cautious assessment.
Along the River Medway: Walking and Cycling
The riverside path along the River Medway from Allington Lock to East Farleigh was upgraded from a walking path to a cycle path. Conditions on this riverside path can change; check the latest information before setting out.
For cyclists, the specific section near East Farleigh is also important: the River Medway towpath there is too narrow to cycle along safely. Walk your bike through this section and ride again once the path widens. Also pay attention to signs on site. This restriction makes clear that cycling is not possible continuously along this section.
Another option is Kettles& Crossings, a 2.7-mile (4.3-kilometre) circular route starting at East Farleigh railway station. The route guide dates from March 2011; path conditions and markings may change. Check them before setting out. The stated distance and circular route provide a specific starting point for planning, without specifying a walking time.
Orchards and Little Fant Farm
Little Fant Farm is a hidden historic cottage farm in the scenic orchards of the Medway Valley. It is in East Farleigh, on the west side of Maidstone in Kent. Visitor arrangements may change; check the latest options before your visit. At the farm, visitors can walk around the grounds and see rescued farm animals. This offers a different focus from the buildings or riverside paths: here, the farm and its animals are part of the visitor experience.
Little Fant Farm is also home to Sonya's Barn Bakery. It serves tea, freshly prepared coffee, and cakes and savoury dishes made on the farm. Visitor arrangements and the food offering may change; check in advance what will be available during your visit.
The options make it easy to choose a focus for your trip: the bridge and church turn your attention to heritage and building history, the Medway paths to a walk or cycle ride, and Little Fant Farm to a farm visit, animals and a bakery. This can help you decide which theme you would like to shape your stay in East Farleigh, while keeping the different path and visitor conditions in mind.
Discover more destinations: Brenchley, Doddington, Goudhurst, Hadlow, Deal, Sittingbourne, Hempstead, Eastry
For the main travel overview: Kent.
