Fowlmead Country Park - Betteshanger, Kent,
Posted by: MeerRescue
N 51° 14.007 E 001° 21.621
31U E 385528 N 5677063
Fowlmead Country Park is sited on the A258 between Sandwich and Deal, Kent, CT14 0BF.
Waymark Code: WMENZR
Location: South East England, United Kingdom
Date Posted: 06/21/2012
Views: 1
Fowlmead Country Park is a 200 acre park regenerated from the former
Bettesghanger Colliery shale spoil tip. The colliery was the last of the 4 Kent
coal mines to close in 1989. For 11 years the former mine and spoil tip
languished until SEEDA
(South East England Development Agency), acting as agents for English
Partnerships, acquired the freehold for the site. As part of the National
Coalfields Programme, and thanks to a good deal of hard work by SEEDA and
members of the Betteshanger Regeneration Team, this former colliery site was
regenerated into Fowlmead Country Park, opening to the
public in May 2007.
With leisure paths stretching around and through the park for walkers, ample car
parking, a cafe, toilets and children's play area, Fowlmead Country Park has
something for everyone. There is an abundance of wildlife to see and to take an
interest in within the park, including a platform for keen bird watchers
overlooking the rich coastal plains sweeping down to the sea. Dogs are welcome
but MUST remain on a lead at ALL times. The park is also home to a national
standard tarmac road-race track, described by British Cycling as "the best in
the Country". The 3.5 km circuit is 6-8 metres wide and can be split into
separate 1.5km and 2km circuits, or ridden in it's entirety as a 3.5km track.
Please note that ALL cyclist, whatever age, MUST wear a suitable cycle helmet if
cycling within the park. Those that prefer off road (MTB) cycling, new circuits
around the park are now sign posted. BMX riders can hone their skills with a new
'skills' area close to the car park.
The co-ords given are for the main vehicle / pedestrian entrance off the A258.
There is a pedestrian only entrance at N51° 14.055 E001° 22.911. Entrance to the
park is free, although a fee for parking is payable by pay & display. For
parking charges, track closure (training/competition) and further park
information, view the park website here.