North Downs

Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is the perfect place to get away from it all. These dramatic chalk hills dotted with ancient beech woodlands, carpeted with grassland rich in wild flowers and native orchids, offer panoramic views over the hedgerows and medieval farmhouses of the Kentish Weald.

The North Downs National Trail and Augustine Camino Pilgrimage Route

The North Downs National Trail and Augustine Camino Trail are both well sign posted and keen walkers can enjoy these long distance pathways. Branching from those trail are many more circular walks where countryside explorers can follow well established trails to appreciate the views of this unique landscape.

The Pilgrims Way

The Pilgrims Way travels along the foot of the North Downs, through the Maidstone area on its way to Canterbury and is - one of the oldest routes in Britain - in use for over 1000 years.

Following any of the trails above on one of the shorter circular walks can be an excellent way to discover some of the County's most fascinating historical landmarks and charming villages. What is particularly useful, is that the railway runs along the foot of the Downs and you can walk from one station to another and catch the train home without having to retrace your steps or worry about where you can safely leave the car for the day.

Hucking Estate

Hucking Estate can be found on the top of the North Downs, it is an area of traditional open grassland and woodland and belongs to the Woodland Trust.  There are delightful walks around this area, wonderful natural sculptures and a good car park.

In our maps page there are a number of downloadable pdf of trails. As new ones become available we add them to the list, so it is worth having a look.