About this Churchyard
St Peter’s churchyard is looked after by a small group of volunteers with wildlife conservation in mind. The large churchyard, positioned on the south facing slope of the Greensand ridge. It is managed in different ways in different areas.
Leaving areas of the churchyard to bloom into wildflowers has been the method of management at St Peters for at least the past 10 years. There are also areas which are more conventionally managed and regularly mown.
The churchyard is a very special, in so far as it directly adjoins an ancient deer park. Biodiversity can range between the two relatively undisturbed sites. As well as a healthy population of Oxeye Daisies and other wildflowers, we have a very healthy population of protected reptiles & amphibians (slow worms, adders, toads and newts), who benefit from both the shady damp north side of the Churchyard as well as the sunny south facing slope on which the majority of churchyard is positioned. Amongst the wildflower areas are also populations of ground nesting bumble bee species.
The churchyard is still ‘open’ for burials and interments, unlike many which are managed for wildlife after closing. This brings with it a unique set of challenges as we try to balance maintaining & protecting space for nature, alongside the activities of a working churchyard (funerals, interments, outside church services, weddings etc) plus accommodating the many visitors who come to enjoy the view (over the deer park and low weald of Kent) and those who are walking through, as we are also on the route of a National Trial.
Key Features
- Wildflower areas
- Peaceful space for quiet reflection
- Wildlife haven
- Birders paradise
- Lichen haven
- Lovely lychgate
- Ancient Yew Tree
St Peter’s Church
Church Hill
Maidstone
Kent
ME17 4BU
Visitor Information
The burial ground is always open.
St Peter’s church building is open every week on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons from 2pm – 4:30pm between Easter and the End of September. We offer guides to the building and light refreshments to all our visitors.
Contact details
https://stpeters-church.org.uk/
Accessibility
This is a sloping site but there is a tarmac path that runs through the churchyard and mown grass paths.
Toilets
We have two toilets just inside the front door one is an accessible toilet.
Seating
There are seats around the churchyard for enjoying the different areas and views.
Parking & Transport
St Peter’s carpark is 100 yards before the church and has room for approximately 100 cars. There is a small area adjacent to the Lychgate for disabled parking
The closest bus stop is at the Cock Inn a 20 min walk from the church. It is served by route 59.
Bus timetable
Café
Teas are sometimes available in the church, alternatively there several pubs within a 5 min drive and further options in Maidstone 15 mins drive.
