Walderslade sits in a lush valley within the North Downs, on the southern edge of the Medway towns and overlapping Chatham, Maidstone, and Tonbridge & Malling in Kent. Once a small farming community, it transformed into a thriving suburb post-WWII, centred around what is now Princes Avenue—the original village hub.
Today, Walderslade is an idyllic fusion of woodland charm and suburban convenience, perfect for families and nature lovers alike. The area benefits from direct access to the M2 motorway and good rail connections via Chatham and Rochester stations, making it a popular choice for commuters to London and Maidstone.
The surrounding ancient woodland provides excellent opportunities for walking and cycling, and local nature spots such as Capstone Farm Country Park and Blue Bell Hill are just a short distance away. The name "Walderslade" is believed to come from Old English meaning “wood in a valley,” and the area retains a peaceful, green feel while offering all the essentials for modern family life.
What we love about Walderslade: Its woodland setting, country parks, excellent motorway links, and friendly residential neighbourhoods.
Leisure
There is a popular leisure centre at Lordswood with sports facilities, a gym and fitness classes. Nearby Chatham Snowsports Centre offers skiing and snowboarding, and Capstone Farm Country Park provides a range of outdoor activities. Karting is available at Buckmore Park just a few minutes away.
Parks
- Capstone Farm Country Park
- Walderslade Woods
- Tunbury Recreation Ground
- Hook Meadow
- Blue Bell Hill
Pubs and Restaurants
- The Oak
- The Poacher’s Pocket
- Robin Hood Pub
- Country Park Restaurant
- Shozna
- Village Café and local takeaways
Country Walks
- Capstone Farm trails
- Walderslade Woods
- Blue Bell Hill
- Nearby countryside at Cobtree Manor Park and Shorne Woods
The Villages
Walderslade Village
Shops, a post office, GP practice, library, and a traditional pub form the heart of the original settlement.
Davis Estate
Home to a shopping parade, takeaways and quick links to Chatham and the M2.
Weedswood
Has a local pub, schools, library and churches, forming a strong community hub.
Walderslade Woods Estate
A 1970s development near the M2, surrounded by ancient woodland and home to Tunbury Primary and the local hospital.
Lordswood
One of the larger residential areas, with retail parades, leisure centre, schools and a large park.
Transport Links
Walderslade is ideally located for commuters and travellers, with excellent connections:
- Motorways – The M2 (Junction 3) is right on the doorstep, offering routes towards London, Canterbury, and the M25. The M20 is also easily accessible.
- Railway – Nearest stations are Chatham and Rochester, both a short drive or bus ride away. These provide direct services to London St Pancras, Victoria, and beyond in around 40–45 minutes.
- Bus Services – Regular Arriva bus routes connect Walderslade to Chatham, Rochester, Maidstone, and local estates.
Schools
Walderslade has a good selection of schools catering to all age groups:
Primary Schools
- Walderslade Primary
- Tunbury Primary
- Maundene Primary
- Oaklands Infant & Junior
- Kingfisher Primary
Secondary Schools
- Greenacre Academy (boys)
- Walderslade Girls’ School