First visit this year to one of my favourite places. Oare gunpowder works is just off Faversham’s Western Link Road. Gunpowder was made there until 1934. After seventy years of neglect major conservation work took place. Remaining structures were conserved and access paths made. The site is managed for nature and biodiversity.
During lockdown the excellent visitors centre, in the former cooperage, is closed. The carpark is open every day from 9 or 930 till 5pm. I arrived soon after the Steward, Allison, unlocked the carpark. We walked round the site while she picked litter. Largely cans and bottles. A lovely place to have a few beers, but why can’t people take the empties home?
The park has a variety of environments: ponds, leats (waterways), woodland, clearings, and wetland. There are plenty of boards giving information about wildlife and the buildings used for gunpowder production.
Conservation work is done largely by volunteers: the Friends of Oare Gunpowder Works. I’ve planted a few trees myself. Work i noticed since my last visit included recently planted yew and hawthorn.
Two coots on the lower millpond. Butterflies, unidentified by me. Birdsong. A popular place for walkers with dogs or children.
In normal times there are guided walks and activities for children. An annual Artists in the Woods festival. Hopefully all these will return.
Rambling Brummie 