Harley Meadow is a special piece of land. Totalling nearly 9 ¾ acres in the heart of Kent, it comprises open land for planting, a substantial pond, woodland shaw and a stream which runs throughout the length of the woods. This varied landscape makes for a truly magical setting which would be ideally suited for those with conservation, environmental or amenity interests.

As well as providing a significant canvas for afforestation or rewilding (the open land stretches to nearly 7 1/2 acres), the well-established woodland fringe adds valuable diversity to the meadow. As well as a wonderful place to spend time, the established woodland which consists solely of deciduous species provides a valuable seed source which will aid the natural regeneration of the open land. The shaw eventually joins up with the larger Benenden Wood, thereby acting as an important wildlife corridor through which animals can travel, such as badgers, rabbits and deer which are known to be active in the local area. Other wildlife includes a range of woodland and farmland birds, including both pheasant and partridge which can be seen regularly. The addition of new woodland to the open area will only serve to enhance the extensive habitats already in place.

As one approaches the ride stop and entrance, the pond is situated immediately to the left of the access track and is surrounded on all sides by a generous belt of deciduous species, creating an enclave of tranquillity. The pond is almost heart shaped, with a wooded bank protruding into its centre creating two sections which are linked towards its western edge. The pond is in excellent condition and is a generous size at nearly ½ an acre. On a sunny day, a striking array of colours reflect off its still surface. The pond offers wonderful opportunities for recreation including fishing, boating and swimming as well as conservation work maintaining and expanding habitats for newts, frogs, insects and other pondlife. A pond of this beauty is a rare find.

The heart of the meadow is almost entirely flat in nature, with only a very gentle gradient dropping away from the entrance at the eastern boundary in a westerly direction. The land itself has had prior agricultural use in recent years as a part of Apple Pie Farm. Prior to that the land was once a substantial orchard, as can been seen on old ordnance survey maps of the local area, until the apple trees were removed around 30 years ago. It will be pleasing to see trees returned to the land where they once stood under new stewardship.

The eastern and northern edges of the meadow are demarcated by stake boundaries, which could be enhanced by the addition of new hedges across their length. The stream which runs throughout the length of the woodland fringe forms the western boundary, with a stock proof fence around the southern section of pond area marking the final length of the meadow’s boundaries. Boundary features are marked with turquoise paint, aside from the stream.

Harley Meadow presents an opportunity to own a charming parcel of land set within the High Weald AONB, providing a canvas for conservation as well as a place to retreat to from the rhythms of everyday life. The land is perfectly suited for tree planting, being located within an area which has extensive woodland nearby, and provides a space where one can be still, reflect and enjoy the quiet beauty of this private meadow.

The purchasers of the meadow will be asked to enter into a covenant