Welcome to Aylesham

Aylesham is a small village located in the county of Kent, England. It is situated approximately 7 miles south-east of Canterbury and 5 miles north-west of Dover. The village has a population of around 4,500 people and is known for its rich history and beautiful countryside. Aylesham was originally a mining village, with the first colliery opening in 1907. The village grew rapidly during the early 20th century, with many miners and their families moving to the area. Today, Aylesham is a thriving community with a range of amenities, including shops, pubs, and a community centre.

One of the main attractions in Aylesham is the Aylesham Heritage Centre, which is located in the former colliery offices. The centre tells the story of the village's mining history and features a range of exhibits, including photographs, mining equipment, and personal stories from former miners. The centre also hosts regular events and activities, such as craft fairs and historical talks. Another popular attraction in Aylesham is the nearby Elvington and Eythorne Heritage Centre, which showcases the history of the surrounding area.

Aylesham is surrounded by beautiful countryside, with many walking and cycling routes to explore. The village is located close to the North Downs Way, a long-distance footpath that runs from Farnham in Surrey to Dover in Kent. The area is also home to a number of nature reserves, including the Aylesham and Snowdown Colliery Nature Reserve, which is a haven for wildlife and features a range of habitats, including woodland, grassland, and wetland. Overall, Aylesham is a charming village with a rich history and plenty of natural beauty to explore.