Few places capture the romance of the English countryside quite like Kent, revered as the “Garden of England” for its unrivaled natural beauty. A masterpiece of rolling landscapes, vast woodlands and dramatic coastal cliffs, this historic county is a sanctuary for those seeking pure, untouched nature. From the grandeur of the white cliffs of Dover to the stunning views across the Kent Downs, the region’s landscape is as diverse as it is enchanting.
The area’s beauty stretches beyond its natural surroundings and onto its rich history, a storied past that includes the famed Pilgrim’s Way, once trodden by devout travellers seeking Canterbury Cathedral and the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket. This route remains an evocative path for many modern wanderers. The trails of Kent unfold like an expertly crafted story, each step a journey through a landscape that has inspired poets, artists and royalty alike.
Jeskyns Country Park
Distance: 1.25 miles
Jeskyns Country Park, located near Gravesend, combines woodlands, meadows, and orchards to create a scenic walk. Formerly farmland, the area has since been transformed into a beautiful landscape full of colourful wildflowers and beautiful wildlife. The flat, well-marked trails make this 1.25 mile walk accessible for all ages and abilities and take you through an array of stunning spots all across the park. A Jeskyns Orchard is home to more than 900 traditional fruit trees including apples, pears, and cherries as well as Henhurst Lake, a small scenic pond where ducks and dragonflies are a regular sight. For children, the park has a magical Fairy and Elf Village hidden in the woods, complete with tiny abodes like the Acorn Apartments, Mushroom Manor, and The Old Boot Inn.
Scotney Parkland Trail
Distance: 2 miles
A picturesque walk, through historic gardens and vast countryside, the Scotney Parkland Trail set within the Scotney Castle Estate is replete with history and natural beauty. This 2-mile circular route winds through ancient woods, and open parkland and provides postcard-perfect views of a stunning 14th-century moated castle ruin that is surrounded by stunning gardens. The walk begins at the castle, originally built in the Hundred Years’ War, and continues on past Horseshoe Pond, a serene body of water home to dragonflies, waterfowl, and the occasional kingfisher. As you emerge from the vast Kilndown Wood, passing towering oak trees, there are sweeping views over the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with its rolling hills and patchwork of farmers’ fields.
Capturing the essence of Kent’s historic charm, the Scotney Parkland Trail is one of the most scenic walks in the county.
Weardale Circular From Chartwell
Distance: 5 miles
The Weardale Circular is a 5-mile trail that uncovers some of the most picturesque parts of Kent’s countryside. It starts at Chartwell house, the former home of Sir Winston Churchill, which is surrounded by lakes, woodlands, and beautifully landscaped gardens that are certainly worth exploring either during or after your walk. The route then meanders through the Hosey Common, where towering beech trees and bluebells line the well-marked, woodland paths. Also along the way is the pretty, Kentish hamlet of French Street full of thatched homes and cosy pubs to enjoy a quick lunch. Deer, foxes, and a myriad of bird species can be spotted on the trail, particularly from the summit of Mariners Hill where you are rewarded for your climb with panoramic views of the Weald of Kent.
Octavia Hill Centenary Trail West
Distance: 6 miles
Named in honour of Octavia Hill, the founder of the National Trust, the Centenary Trail celebrates her legacy by showcasing the landscapes she fought to preserve. Located in the heart of the Kent Downs, this route takes walkers over hills, through woodlands, and past charming little villages. Along the way is Toys Hill, a favourite of Octavia’s, boasting stunning vistas across the Weald of Kent. A short detour leads to Emmett’s Garden, a resplendent Edwardian estate where seasonal flower displays unfold in a symphony of colour. Nearby, the quaint villages of Ide Hill and Sundridge offer a charming interlude, their time-honoured inns, and historic cottages a lovely setting for respite and reflection. As the trail continues, wildlife lovers may chance upon buzzards circling overhead, deer weaving through ancient oak trees, or even some elusive foxes. Ascending to the majestic panoramas of Mariners Hill, the landscape stretches endlessly towards the horizon.
Following in the footsteps of one of Britain’s greatest conservationists, The Octavia Hill Centenary Trail is a pilgrimage through Kent’s most treasured landscapes and a homage to one of the greatest campaigners for England’s "Green Belt" areas.
Minnis Bay to Reculver Country Park
Distance: 7.5 miles
The spectacular coastal route from Minnis Bay to Reculver Country Park follows the Viking Coastal Trail along the rugged cliff top and seafront path. The trail showcases the beauty of the north Kent Coast as well as the striking ruins of Reculver, an imposing twin tower structure that dominates the skyline of Herne Bay. Minnis Bay, where the walk begins, is a charming seaside locale with golden sands and a vast horizon stretching out over the Thames Estuary. This stretch of coast is a haven for birds – species such as oystercatchers, sandpipers, and even marsh harriers are frequently spotted along the shore. The final stop is the national park and Roman Fort at Reculver – a great place to relax over a picnic.
For a coastal hike full of wildlife and history, this cliff-hugging scenic trail is a journey through a land that has inspired artists and visionaries for centuries. Kent’s landscapes are brimming with vast amounts of historic charm and natural beauty. These walks represent just a few of the natural treasures Kent has to offer.
