The Radfall

The natural landscape of this woodland has been altered by people and animals for thousands of years.   

Almost one thousand years ago, this section of woodland was a ‘droveway’ and used to move animals like pigs and sheep between Canterbury and the coast. This ancient droveway is known as Radfall. 

The banks on either side of the droveway were built to keep animals from roaming too far. People kept it clear by removing the vegetation and using it for firewood.  

Droveways are typically 12 to 15m wide and were commonly used to take animals to market. The drovers transported extremely valuable herds and, as a result, the position was only offered to those considered to be highly trusted. In some instances, the drovers would be asked to chaperone the children of the wealthy when travelling to the city. 

Whilst Radfall is no longer a fully accessible route, with much of it being overgrown by brambles and woodland, there are preserved droveways across England. The Hambleton drove road in Yorkshire is considered one of the best preserved. 

Radfall is visible on ordnance survey maps and can be viewed using grid reference TR 1067 6048.

The story of Radfall continues to interest and inspire many, and local artist Tiffany Tu created a sculpture of bison hoofprints to symbolise the history of the droveway and the future presence of bison in the area. Her work has been displayed on the Wild Art Trail in Thornden Woods.