Top 10 Walks In Kent

Written by Paul Gent in Kent Walks,Places to WalkLast Updated January 30, 2025

top 10 walks in kent
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Kent, often referred to as the “Garden of England,” is a county known for its stunning landscapes, from rolling countryside to dramatic coastlines. Situated in the southeast of England, Kent offers a diverse array of walking experiences, whether you’re strolling along its iconic white cliffs, meandering through ancient woodlands, or exploring its charming villages.

The county is rich in history, with landmarks like Canterbury Cathedral, Leeds Castle, and the White Cliffs of Dover, all of which provide a perfect blend of culture and natural beauty for outdoor enthusiasts.

Kent’s geographical variety provides something for every type of walker, from easy riverside strolls to more challenging hill climbs. Its coastline is a highlight, offering spectacular coastal paths, while the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty presents scenic countryside routes.

With its fascinating history, diverse landscapes, and many heritage sites, Kent is an ideal destination for those who enjoy hiking while discovering the heritage and natural beauty of England.

The Top 10 Walks In Kent

1. White Cliffs of Dover Walk

  • Start/End Point: Dover Visitor Centre to St. Margaret’s Bay
  • Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal cliffs, grassland
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: White Cliffs of Dover

This iconic walk along the White Cliffs of Dover offers breathtaking views of the English Channel and France on clear days, with an abundance of coastal wildlife.

2. Canterbury to Chartham via the Great Stour River

  • Start/End Point: Canterbury West Station to Chartham Village
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Riverside paths, meadows
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Westgate Gardens

A peaceful riverside walk starting in historic Canterbury, following the Great Stour River through idyllic countryside to the charming village of Chartham.

3. Sevenoaks Circular via Knole Park

  • Start/End Point: Sevenoaks Station
  • Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km)
  • Terrain: Parkland, woodlands
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Knole House

This scenic circular walk passes through Knole Park, home to wild deer and the historic Knole House, set amidst stunning parkland and woods.

4. Leeds Castle and River Len Walk

  • Start/End Point: Leeds Castle Car Park
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Lakeside paths, fields
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Leeds Castle

A delightful walk around Leeds Castle and its grounds, featuring tranquil lakes, manicured gardens, and picturesque countryside.

5. Hever Castle to Penshurst Place Walk

  • Start/End Point: Hever Castle to Penshurst Place
  • Distance: 7 miles (11.2 km)
  • Terrain: Woodland, rolling countryside
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Hever Castle

This walk connects two historic landmarks, Hever Castle and Penshurst Place, through enchanting woodland and undulating fields.

6. Bewl Water Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Bewl Water Visitor Centre
  • Distance: 12.5 miles (20 km)
  • Terrain: Lakeside paths, woodland
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Notable Landmark: Bewl Water Reservoir

A challenging but rewarding circular route around Kent’s largest reservoir, with stunning lakeside views and abundant birdlife.

7. Romney Marsh and Dymchurch Coastal Walk

  • Start/End Point: Dymchurch Beach
  • Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
  • Terrain: Flat coastal paths, shingle beaches
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Dymchurch Sea Wall

A gentle coastal walk along Romney Marsh, offering beautiful sea views, quaint villages, and historic sea defenses.

8. Westerham Circular Walk via Chartwell

  • Start/End Point: Westerham Village
  • Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km)
  • Terrain: Woodland, fields, hills
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Chartwell House

This walk takes you through the Kent countryside, including Chartwell, the family home of Winston Churchill, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

9. Faversham to Oare Marshes Walk

  • Start/End Point: Faversham Town Centre
  • Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
  • Terrain: Marshland, flat paths
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Oare Marshes Nature Reserve

A serene walk from Faversham to the Oare Marshes, a haven for birdwatchers with sweeping views of the estuary and wetlands.

10. Shoreham Circular via Darent Valley

  • Start/End Point: Shoreham Village
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Fields, hills, woodlands
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Shoreham Aircraft Museum

This circular walk explores the scenic Darent Valley, combining open fields, quiet woodlands, and the picturesque village of Shoreham.

Summary – Top 10 Walks in Kent

We hope you enjoy this list of walks and look forward to trying some of them out on your next visit to Kent. Why not take a look at other counties too when planning other trips.

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