This September saw the introduction of what will now be an annual tradition: The Inter-Livery Kent Coastal Hike.

Freeman Amy Hopper guided ramblers from her hometown in Sandwich to Deal.  Starting at Sandwich Train Station, the group met the mayor of Sandwich Councillor Paul Carter and were treated to a private tour of the Elizabethan Courthouse and Guildhall Museum. Master Mark Huxley presented the Mayor with a signed copy of Jennifer Andersen’s ‘An Introduction to The City of London,’ which will sit proudly in the Guildhall archive for all to access.

Sandwich is one of the original cinque port towns and the landing site of the Roman invasion in 43AD. Many of the sites Freeman Amy Hopper's ancestors had a hand in building! It is somewhat of a time capsule, still boasting a number of original Norman, Saxon and Tudor buildings. 

 

Through Sandwich Bay and the start of the coastal section of their walk, the group passed through Royal St George’s Golf course. As the keen golfers amongst you will know the Golf  Open is held here every 10 years and Sandwich was the first course to host The Open outside of Scotland in 1894.
The Company of Entrepreneurs, The Worshipful Company of Gardeners, The Worshipful Company Of Carmen Hall, WC of Makers of Playing Cards, and The Worshipful Company of Marketors were represented on the day, with the most glorious weather!

With clear views across the sea to the isle of Thanet, France, and a few cheeky seals popping their heads up! Sandwich Bay is home to a wildlife reserve, bird observatory, and large seal colony.

After a lovely walk full of conversation, they reached their destination: Deal Ice Cream Parlour, Deal Beach and Deal Pier. A beautiful day brushing off the cobwebs, great conversation, bi-lateral stimulation, sea air, camaraderie, and a nice bit of money raised for the Company Trust charity. Ice creams with fish & chips were a well-deserved end to a great event. Master Mark Huxley could only conclude that the event should be an annual occurrence! 

  

Many thanks to Right Worshipful Mayor Paul Carter for hosting at Sandwich Guildhall and the Guildhall team for the tour of Sandwich museum. 

All photos (c) Amy Hopper