Colin S's Bearsted - Leeds Castle Circular - 12 miles

A generally flat walk just south of the North Downs east of Maidstone.  We start by heading broadly eastwards via Hollingbourne, then turning broadly westwards to our picnic lunch stop at Leeds Castle (with optional cafe to purchase food / drinks) after ca. 6 miles / ca. 2.5 hours.  We then broadly follow the route of the River Len back to Bearsted, passing by the National Trust property Stoneacre (not open on this day).  Note:  parts of the walk will be on paths through stinging nettles - so long trousers highly recommended!  Dogs welcome - but note that there are quite a few stiles!