You don't have to be an experienced rambler to enjoy the benefits of walking - just a simple stroll in the great outdoors can reduce stress, aid a good night's rest and help create a positive mental health space, which is something we all need to prioritise right now. Though it might look less than inviting on a gloomy day, these sprawling, quiet walking routes will help you dust off the cobwebs and give you a breath of fresh air - and of course, we hope the stunning Kent terrain you encounter will help put a spring in your step.
Plus, as our businesses are proudly displaying VisitBritain's We're Good to Go kitemark, you can rest-assured there will be plenty of safe and welcoming places to stop off and grab a treat while out on your wanders.
The extraordinary nature reserve of Samphire Hoe is the perfect place for a stroll with an invigorating sea breeze - not to mention a great vantage point for marveling at the world-famous White Cliffs of Dover. With a rich array of animals and plants to spot on your walk, make sure to #RespectProtectEnjoy this special environment so it can be enjoyed through the winter and beyond.
Throughout Kent, the Downs are an imposing backdrop whether you are in the south near Dover or north towards Medway, and they are perfect for a challenging or steadier walk. A walk on the Downs can be started and finished anywhere you like with a venture along the North Downs Way National Trail, but the views from the Devils Kneading Trough are certainly to be admired.
Whether it's beautifully frosted in winter, or covered in vibrant red ivy in autumn, Hever Castle is one of our favourites spots for strolls on chilly days. Whilst the castle remains shut, the stunning castle exterior can be enjoyed from the lucious gardens, where you can explore the winter foliage and head for a walk around the Italian-inspired Loggia and lake.
Circling around the beautiful estate of the 14th century Scotney Castle, the Scotney Parkland Trail is the perfect walk to discover the little stream that feeds the moat, beautiful woodland and panoramic views of the castle and its parkland. The total distance is just under 2 miles, so definitely managable for a shorter afternoon stroll. If you still have a little energy left, head across to nearby Bewl Water, where you can walk the total lakeside distance of 3 miles or split it into shorter, more manageable sections! Countryside ideals in West Kent
Explore more of the High Weald and marvel at acres of open countryside when you take a walk in Tunbridge Wells. Visit Tunbridge Wells has put together an ideal circular walk which takes in a centuries old water mill, kept gardens and of course, sprawling views across the High Weald AONB.
The rugged coastline of The Isle of Thanet offers spectacular views into chalk bays and far reaching seascapes. If you fancy scratching under the surface of Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate pick up a self-guided leaflet or join a tour to hear intriguing tales a little more, then the self-guided town route is for you – covering the Surfboat Memorial to The Tudor House. For those with a little more time and energy – there’s the Pilgrimage journey, quite literally! The Way of St Augustine can be done in 2 days and covers around 17 miles, from the Shrine of St Augustine in Ramsgate to Eastbridge Hospital in Canterbury. *All-rounders in Thanet*
If you feel the motivation to head out even further and wider into the county, Explore Kent can help! Head over to their page and discover their app full of new routes for you to try, and thanks to the downloadable Ordnance Survey map layer, you'll never have to fear getting lost on your way.
With miles of countryside and rural villages surrounding Maidstone, it’s no surprise this spot has some excellent walking routes. Follow the 2.5 mile route along the River Medway from Wateringbury to Yalding and you’ll have two pubs to choose from, The Railway at Wateringbury and the Boathouse at Yalding, perfect for a tipple and a bite to warm yourself up after your stroll. Along the top of the North Downs, White Horse Wood Country Park is the start of plenty of trails, with routes to Thurnham Castle, The Pilgrims Way and the Black Horse all within reach.
For a true walking break, a stay at Romney Marsh Shepherd's Huts is a must. Wake up to beautiful wide-reaching views on the farm, with paths heading out into the countryside. Discover wildlife on the farm, spot swans and stroll the fields and spy those famous Romney Marsh sheep, before discovering historic sites and landmarks in the beautiful Romney Marsh. Once you’ve got in the miles, return to you cosy shepherd’s hut for hot chocolate and the chance to snuggle up by the fire pit.
A walk and a delicious local wine to sample along the way? Sounds like our perfect afternoon! Take the Saxon Shore Way through Romney Marsh and Folkestone, through two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and several nature reserves along the way. Bird watchers, keep a look out for waders, grebes and peregrines, and wine lovers, keep a look out for signs for beautiful Gusbourne. Running right through the vineyard, your trail will lead you to the winery, where a glass of their finest in The Nest makes for the perfect welcoming pit-stop.
With café culture and a Royal Harbour at its heart, not to mention those views, Ramsgate is the perfect spot to start out on your winter wanders. Active Ramsgate’s seven walks cover all manner of rambles, from six-mile linear walks along chalk-lined clifftops, to three mile circulars which take in the town’s incredible architectural splendour. Each walk finishes or begins in the picturesque town, so you can treat yourself to cake, coffee and coastal views. Plus, with the likes of the long distance Augustine Camino and England Coast Path on the doorstep, true adventurers can get out on the trails and go the distance.
