Soames Meadow, Kent

Soames Meadow is a delightful stretch of land. Spanning approximately 6 ¾ acres in the heart of Kent, it features open ground for planting, a tranquil pond, and a woodland shaw. This diverse landscape creates a distinctive setting, well-suited for those with a passion for conservation, environmental projects, or amenity use.

The meadow is level and has been used agriculturally in recent years as part of Apple Pie Farm. Historically, the land was a thriving orchard, as evidenced by old ordnance survey maps, until the apple trees were removed around four decades ago. Under new stewardship, the return of trees to this land will be a welcome sight, restoring a landscape once shaped by orchard rows.

Beyond the open meadow, the land extends eastward to include a section of woodland shaw, which eventually merges with the larger Benenden Wood. This connection forms an essential wildlife corridor, providing passage for local species such as badgers, rabbits, and deer. A badger sett lies within the meadow’s eastern boundary, and the area is home to an array of farmland and woodland birds, including pheasant and partridge, which are frequently seen. Further tree planting will only enhance the already rich habitats present on the land.

In the southeast corner of the meadow, a picturesque pond is enclosed by broadleaved trees. This area is part of a larger section of land designated as ancient woodland, meaning it has maintained continuous tree cover for at least 400 years. The pond serves as a thriving haven for wildlife, offering opportunities for conservation efforts to support newts, frogs, insects, and other pond life.

The northern boundary of the meadow is defined by field stakes, with the potential for new hedge planting, for which grants are available. To the south, deer fencing protects a neighbouring willow plantation, where English willow is cultivated for cricket bats. Boundary markers are identified with purple paint.

Soames Meadow presents a rare opportunity to own a peaceful and scenic parcel of land within the High Weald National Landscape. It offers a canvas for conservation and tree planting, integrating into the surrounding woodlands. Beyond its ecological potential, the meadow provides a private retreat - a place to pause, reflect, and immerse oneself in the quiet beauty of nature.

In their eagerness to preserve this meadow, and as recognition of its value, the local council have given it an extra level of protection by including it within an Article 4 area, which means that it is protected from unsympathetic development. You can read more about that here.