The sun is out (sort of), the birds are singing and it’s time to get out and about on foot and celebrate National Walking Month! Kent has more than 4,000 miles of foot and cycles paths with wonderful walks winding through towns, country and coast, so we've asked our friends at Explore Kent to share their top walks with you this month.
With a huge selection of walker-friendly tearooms, pubs and restaurants there is no shortage of places that will welcome muddy boots, muddy paws and backpacks! And the great thing about walking is you can always make time for a stroll. So what are you waiting for? Lace up your boots and get out there!
How about easing into Walking Month by combining a walk with a shopping trip, taking to the streets of Canterbury in the footsteps of Marlowe? With attractions including the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral, the Canterbury Tales and the Historic River Tours, you'll certainly want to make a day of it. Take to the streets of Canterbury
If woodland beauty, bluebells and wild garlic take your fancy, take a mini adventure to Boughton and see stunning views of open farmland and historic woodland. Enjoy some sustenance with lunch in the quaint White Horse Inn at the end of your trek, or tuck in to snacks in the West Wing of the kitchen at Mount Ephraim gardens. Try a woodland ramble
Who says a rewarding walk can't be to the pub? Live the country life for a day and take the new Little Brown Jug walking trail. This traditional pub walk heads through the rolling Wealden countryside taking in areas full of fascinating military history. After a delicious lunch at the Little Brown Jug, head back to Bore Place to explore the farmyard and gardens. Enjoy a stroll and a pint
Let the train take the strain - arrive in Maidstone, at any of its stations, and head down hill to the River Medway. Here you will find some easy but excellent waterside walking, as the path follows the river from Maidstone Town Centre to Yalding. Along the route you will find a host of cafes and pubs, excellent wildlife and beautiful countryside to enjoy. Regular train stations along the route can bring you back to your starting point, so you only have to walk one way and the walk can be adjusted to your energy. Alternatively you can do circular walks into the countryside from the various stations along the line, such as East Farleigh. Meander in Maidstone
If you yearn for a taste of the ocean, St Margaret’s at Cliffe will give you that much needed fix. Heading from beautiful St Margaret’s Bay, head up onto the cliffs for stunning sea views and a chance to visit the South Foreland lighthouse where the Knott family once lived. Have lunch in Mrs Knott’s tea room, or head back to St Margaret’s to the Coastguard pub for a spot of alfresco dining. Be beside the seaside
If you fancy a view and a brew in one place, Lullingstone country park offers a range of wonderful riverside walking options with a delicious café offering freshly prepared meals and snacks. Venture a little further afield and take the Lullingstone Country Park walk through the Darent Valley and then step back to AD 100 with a visit to the astonishing Lullingstone Roman Villa. Take a riverside jaunt
If you're feeling inspired, check out Explore Kent for even more walks across the Kent countryside. From easy access walks suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, through to long distance walking trails, there is plenty of choice. Get started in the Be Inspired section and plan your next walking adventure!
