Explore

There are three specific and different landscapes to explore here in Kent and a variety of ways to do this.  You can travel:

• on foot, through the network of paths and ancient ways
• by car, enabling you to cover more miles and reach remoter locations
• by train, exploring from the stations along the River Medway, along the foot of the North Downs or the stations through the Weald.
• by bike, with good cycle trails and quiet lanes to explore, with routes from the railway stations.
• by air, Headcorn aerodrome allows adventurous visitors to explore the Kent countryside by air on pleasure flights.
• by boat, along the River Medway from Allington Lock to Tonbridge.  You can cruise with the Kentish Lady, hire your own boat or paddle your own canoe.

North Downs

The chalk hills of the North Downs add height to the landscape with wide open fields and vast views. Along with the historical routes there are new long distance paths, small hamlets and Downland churches, tiny communities, woodlands and wild flowers to see. Click through for more detail.

The River Medway and the Medway Valley

The River Medway despite its size is little explored and is a very quiet route for boating and canoeing. Dozens of walks run along the river and there are both circular and linear paths. On the linear routes the local rail  can help move you around the area and you can catch the train home. To find out more about the routes and ways to explore click here.

The Weald

This is one of Kent's major food production areas, filled with orchards of pears, apples and cherries. There are fields of strawberries, raspberries, currants and vegetables of all kinds. Occasionally there will be a nuttery of Kentish cobnuts, and amongst all of this are the new vineyards producing some world class wine. View the pretty and historic villages built with local skills and materials, flint, Kentish ragstone and buildings surviving from Medieval times. All worth a little time to explore. Come and find out a little more…

The Countryside Code

Your guide to enjoying parks and waterways, coast and countryside

Respect everyone
• be considerate to those living in, working in and enjoying the countryside
• leave gates and property as you find them
• do not block access to gateways or driveways when parking
• be nice, say hello, share the space
• follow local signs and keep to marked paths unless wider access is available

Protect the Environment
• take your litter home – leave no trace of your visit
• take care with BBQs and do not light fires
• always keep dogs under control and in sight
• dog poo – bag it and bin it – any public waste bin will do
• care for nature – do not cause damage or disturbance

Enjoy the outdoors 
• check your route and local conditions
• plan your adventure – know what to expect and what you can do
• enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory
www.gov.

To find out more please look at the Countryside Code on the government website