We all know and love Kent for its wonderful natural landscapes and, with Kent Downs National Landscape being an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it's no surprise there's an endless list of walks and wanders to explore here! We've compiled (some of) the best places to get some fresh air, relax and take in the flora and fauna of our beautiful county. These walks are sure to make you forget that you used to go for walks as a daily chore - begrudge the outdoors no more with the help of the Kent countryside and its lovely locals.
Biddenden Vineyards
Immerse yourself in the world of wines as you stroll through Biddenden Vineyards in Ashford. Established in 1969 in the Heart of the Garden, you can be assured that the folks at Biddenden know a thing or two about fermenting grapes. Come and visit for the day and take a self-guided tour with friends, where you’ll be able to sample a variety of wines and learn about the grapes they come from. With two routes available, you can choose whether you want a gentle amble or something a bit longer. Or, come along to a private guided tour with a group of up to 8 friends and get taught all about the vineyard by a vin-tastic tour guide! Learn all about Biddenden in the best way possible - with a sample!
Port Lympne
We all know Port Lympne for its amazing animals and wonderful wildlife, but did you know it’s also the perfect spot for a countryside walk? Take in the 600 acres of Kentish countryside and dramatic coastal views over the Romney Marsh (you might even spot our French friends on the other side!). You’ll feel like you’re in the jungle as you hear the noise of the park’s many animals while strolling through tall trees and fascinating flora. There are also the reserve’s 14-acre gardens that offer the most relaxing of strolls and have done for the past 100 years! Get transported to another world as you take in all that Port Lympne has to offer.
Out to the Woods
This year, Kent Downs is bringing you two wonderful Out of the Woods experiences, starting off with Chapattis on a Chula with Sunita Thakur. Where better to learn how to cook traditional Indian food than in the middle of the calm and serene Admiral Woods. Let the aromas of the spices and the warmth of the fire indulge your senses as you learn how to cook chapattis and lentil dahl while sat within the tranquillity of the forest. Then enjoy a group walk through the woods, allowing your mind and body to be relaxed and replenished. Why not also have a look at making your own Woodland Wreath and Flower Crown with Avril Howard? Set again in the beautiful Admiral Woods, you can let your imagination take over as you weave, move, and create something wonderful. Again, take a walk over to Gorham Woods, enjoying a lunch provided by the team, and have an amble down to the pub for a drink after a hard day’s work of creativity.
Outdoor Studios
Set in the beautiful King’s Wood, the team at Outdoor Studios are here to tell you all about Kent’s exciting history, before giving you the chance to get creative with some traditional Kentish art techniques. Enjoy a guided walk around the woods with experts on everything natural, before sitting down to enjoy a locally sourced picnic. Then unleash your imagination by painting with natural inks, sketching ancient trees, or even learning cyanotype printing using leaves and flowers. This will be so much fun, it’s almost unbe-leaf-able!
Become a Rebel Farmer
Ditch the supermarket and learn how to grow your own fruits and vegetables all year-round with the Rebel Farmer. Get shown around the 3-acre micro farm by the experts of low-impact living and see how accessible this lifestyle really is. You can take the reins and sow your own seeds or harvest your own vegetables – just bring along your green fingers and you’re set! Then, enjoy a lunch made from the seasonal, local produce from the farm (of course) as well as other fabulous Kent makers. Sow much fun is to be had on the Rebel Farm!
Dr Forager
Let’s reconnect with our cooking! Dr Forager (Hannah Scott (PhD)) will be hosting a 2-hour foraging walk on Kent’s coast throughout various dates this summer. Join her to discover what the sealine serves, followed up by eating a cooked meal from the foraged food - scrumptiously sustainable! Learn what coastal foods are safe to eat and how to eat them. From Margate to Westgate-on-Sea, you’ll discover all the delicious delights you can take home with you for free. Sea purslane pesto anyone?
Col’s Kent Bike Tours
From iconic spots to hidden treasures, you can ride along with Col’s Bike Tours whatever the weather and discover Kent’s true beauty. Taking you all around Kent, you can see the sights of Margate, Canterbury and Whitstable while getting in some refreshing exercise. Pick from half days, a few hours, or even an overnight stay while you explore the coast, woods, and everything in between. Even mix it up with some paddle boarding, running or electric biking – there’s a day out with Col for everyone.
Nordic Walking
Work your upper body and legs with some Nordic walking around the beautiful Isle of Thanet. Stay overnight and get in a few days of much needed wellbeing for the body and mind. We can’t think of a better place to sleepover than in the historic town of Ramsgate, boasting amazing architecture and the only Royal Harbour in the county. Bring friends along for a taste of how the Scandi’s get their body fit!
Viking Coastal Trail
For more Scandi sights around Thanet, why not check out the Viking Coastal Trail - a circular route along the coast that you, friends, and family can walk or cycle! Spend the day ambling along, stopping for a drink and some food along the way, or see if you can beat your P.B. and cycle the way around! This traffic free route is sure to get everyone on their feet and exploring the beautiful Kentish coastline.
Solley’s Ice Cream Parlour
Make the family walk that bit better with some ice cream! Set in the heart of 300 acres of beautiful Kent countryside in the village of Ripple, Solley’s Farm & Ice Cream Parlour is the perfect place to take in the refreshingly rejuvenating outdoor air. With a network of footpaths joining the farm, Solley’s have put together 7 walking routes for everyone to enjoy. Either a short and easy 30-minute walk or a 2-hour adventure, there is something for the whole family. It doesn’t hurt that there’s ice cream at the end of the road, either!
