Not many people in the Medway towns are aware of Rede Common, a 25 acre site of common land owned and managed by Medway Council with the help of FORC volunteers. The Strood Community Trail goes through this area which is now a Local Nature Reserve.

There are wide grass paths and hard surface paths to follow, some of the paths do get muddy and slippery when in very wet weather. So wear sensible footwear for safe walking. Rede Common is an attractive open space, throughout the seasons with wild flowers and lovely blossoms on a variety of trees in the spring. Many birds and butterflies have been recorded.

Please be aware that there is no parking. This open space is off Watling Street, opposite the Co-op petrol station. There are traffic lights at this point; take the first turning on the left after then lights into Carnation Road and then the immediate left into Thurston Drive. You may be able to park there. There is a choice of two entrances. Take the pavement by the A2. You will see steps up to a small woodland area leading to a large open grassland with good views.

The other entrance in Thurston Drive has a wide track which will lead you up on to the common.

Enjoy your walk on the wild side when you visit Rede Common Nature Reserve.

(Sheila – Volunteer)