The total distance is 18-19 miles but there are many ways that the series can be divided up into shorter walks. I have suggested three separate intersecting loops that can be completed independently, without any overlap. There is a recommended parking place for each circuit – see TT01, RR01 and BB01 for the co-ordinates. The walk can be started at any point but, as 'multis' have been placed around the circuit, it should always be completed in ascending numerical order. Terrain ratings have been assigned on the assumption that the series is completed in this way, and in the direction recommended.
Trosley Trek (TT01 – TT31) Distance: 6 miles Parking: Trosley Country Park
Starting at the Visitor Centre the walk initially meanders around the country park before picking up the North Downs Way and descending the escarpment to the Pilgrims' Way. On reaching Trosley Court, the route returns to the Visitor Centre via the Pilgrims' Way and North Downs Way with a steady climb up the escarpment to finish the walk.
Ryarsh Ramble (RR01 – RR32) Distance: 6 miles Parking: Pinesfield Lane
The walk starts at the Pinesfield Lane car park, beginning with a short walk along the Wealdway before joining the Pilgrims' Way / North Downs Way for 1.5 miles. The route then descends through fields to Ryarsh, returning to the starting point via Ryarsh Woods.
Birling Bash (BB01 – BB31) Distance: 7 miles Parking: Birling Church
Surrounded by undulating meadows, paddocks and arable land, Birling is a traditional Kent village with a historic church and pub. Starting at the car park by the church, the hike makes its way up to the Pilgrims' Way via the ancient church at Paddlesworth. After a short walk along this footpath the route diverts along the North Downs Way, with a stiff climb up the escarpment in the direction of Holly Hill. From the excellent viewpoint at the top there is a steady descent across the fields and back to Birling.
In terms of gradient, the Ryarsh Ramble is the easiest walk of the three as no ascent of the escarpment is involved. The Trosley Trek involves a diagonal ascent that is of moderate difficulty but the Birling Bash involves a steep ascent.
Walking boots are recommended, as some paths will inevitably be muddy in the winter or after periods of prolonged rainfall.
There are 15 straightforward puzzle caches included in the series. They have a common theme and, ideally, should be solved in advance. There is no need to get steamed up about them - I have included hints to keep you on track!.
This new series replaces the original Trottiscliffe Trail, Birling Loop, Snodland Circuit and Downland Diversion. If you have completed these series, I make no apologies for bringing you back to this lovely part of the Kent countryside. There are some changes in the footpaths used and 86 of the caches are new, either in terms of location or cache type. There are a variety of containers, including some recycled ones, and the hides range from easy to more demanding.