Winter Walks in Kent

Wrap up warm and re-charge your batteries in the great outdoors. It's a wonderful time of year to explore, with lots of fresh air and secret wildlife sights. And with delightful country pubs dotted across the countryside, what better way to finish your walk than beside a roaring fire with a pint of locally brewed ale?
 

Winter Trail at Bedgebury

The conifers at Bedgebury National Pinetum really come into their own during winter, and along with the broadleaf collection, offer a dramatic contrast of winter colours. Following a bumper crop of fruit, Bedgebury are hopeful that this winter will be a good one for wildlife, with hawfinches, fieldfares, redwings and possibly waxwings expected to make an appearance. A Winter Trail leaflet is available from the Visitor Centre.
 

National Trust Estate Walks

There are fine walks through the Scotney Castle estate, with its parkland, woodland and hop farm offering wonderful vistas and views. The beautiful Ightham Mote offers three waymarked self-guided walks on the surrounding estate - pick up a leaflet from visitor reception. At Chartwell, home of Sir Winston Churchill, there are three waymarked countryside walks with stunning views over the Weald. 
 

The White Cliffs

The White Cliffs are your gateway to miles of ancient chalk downland trails. Share the stunning views across the Channel with sea birds and grazing ponies. Warm up at the National Trust Visitor Centre and Cafe. Download the wildlife walk and get walking!

For a gentle, circular walk, head to Samphire Hoe, made from material dug to create the Channel Tunnel. Look out for the rock pipits which arrive to spend the winter here, and try and spot the sea mayweed, one of the few plants that flowers in the depth of winter. The tea kiosk is open weekends.
 

Countryside rambles

Lullingstone Country Park, set in the Darenth Valley, is home to an ancient collection of trees as well as wild, open grassland, and provides the setting for a beautiful country winter walk, with refreshments available at the visitor centre.

The village green and historic houses of Chartham mark the start of a pleasant circular walk through the Stour Valley and back along part of the North Downs Way.

Continue the village theme at Otford, one of Kent's most attractive villages. There are some steep paths but you can reward yourself with the stunning views, and maybe a stop at one of Otford's thriving inns, restaurants or independent shops.

For the brave out there, try a gentle walk around Pluckley, said to be the most haunted village in England. Also the setting for the Darling Buds of May.
  

Another great escape is Bewl Water. Spot mallards, moorhens and other feathered friends on the 12.5-mile round-reservoir route.

There are two walking trails around Penshurst Estate to enjoy. A copy of the Parkland Walk and the Riverside Walk are available to purchase from the Visitor Reception.