Embrace the cold and clear your head while discovering Kent’s hidden treasures
Fancy a brisk walk to escape the winter chill, accompanied by breathtaking views? Embrace the frosty weather and clear your mind whilst uncovering Kent’s hidden gems.
And for those keen on burning some calories, winter is an ideal time as our bodies work extra hard to stay warm. From coastal strolls to historical paths winding past castles, Kent is teeming with scenic routes.
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend wander or simply seeking some winter sun and fresh air, any reason to explore the great outdoors is a good one. KentLive has compiled a must-see list of the top five walks to enjoy this winter, showcasing the best spots to soak up the views, delve into history, and keep fit during the colder months.
A walk through time – Sissinghurst
For history buffs, the Sissinghurst walk is a must-do. This route takes walkers north from Cranbrook, through woodlands, and all the way to the historic Sissinghurst Castle, famous for its beautiful gardens designed by Vita Sackville-West.
This 10-mile trail, which takes roughly five hours to complete, will guide you through orchards towards the village, past the parkland estate of Great Swifts and the St Dunstan’s churchyard. The route starts and finishes at Cranbrook, where free parking is available near the Co-op supermarket.
‘Zig Zag’ Path in Folkestone
Folkestone, which The Times recognised as one of Britain’s finest seaside locations in 2023, features an exceptional clifftop walk near the Leas Cliff Hall. The ‘Zig Zag’ Path winds down the cliff face through man-made grottos, connecting the Upper Leas with the seafront below.
Built in 1921, this listed structure offers spectacular sea views. One visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “One of our favourite walks where we take the Zig Zag Path to the promenade and then walk to the Harbour Arm and then through the town and back along The Leas.”
Another commented: “If you want to visit the sea, the Zig Zag Path is a lovely route. It is not too steep and the scenery and view are lovely.”
Scotney Castle Parkland Trail
This two-mile route near Tunbridge Wells is perfect for dog walkers, meandering through historic parkland with stunning views of Scotney Castle. It’s also ideal for those interested in discovering more about the estate’s heritage.
Start from the car park, crossing a bridge over the Sweetbourn stream. The National Trust website states: “From the bridge continue on the old carriageway, go through the gate and head towards the next bridge. Look to the left before the next bridge for a glimpse of the old castle”.
Take in the enchanting gardens of Scotney Castle set within the River Bewl valley. The scene is straight from a storybook – a medieval castle ruin standing on an island, encircled by a peaceful lake.
After a day exploring the surrounding area, visitors can unwind in the Coach House tea room, which serves ‘fresh, seasonal, locally sourced food’ alongside hot and cold beverages and even packed lunch options for children. It opens from 10am to 4pm.
Dogs are welcome both inside the tea room and in the outdoor space but must remain on a lead.
Coastal walk at Samphire Hoe
Situated near Dover, this 2.4-km circular route takes approximately 30 minutes to complete and offers stunning coastal vistas. The pathway winds through a nature reserve, which according to the AllTrails website: “The reserve is home to over two hundred species of bird, two hundred species of plants and thirty of butterflies.
“The reserve actually gets its name from the Rock Samphire that grows on the rocks and makes a lovely, slightly salty, side dish.” Dogs are permitted on this well-loved trail but must be kept on a lead.
The Kent Downs AONB tourism board has described Samphire Hoe as a “haven for wildlife”.
Footpath near Wild Animal Park
A hidden gem near Bekesbourne takes ramblers past elephant enclosures. The footpath, situated near the junction of Bekesbourne Hill and Bekesbourne Lane, might be challenging to locate but is absolutely worth discovering.
Marked by a dotted red line, the trail crosses two footbridges, providing spectacular views of Howletts Wild Animal Park and the surrounding countryside. The pinnacle of the journey is when the path runs parallel to the elephant and rhino enclosures, without actually entering the animal park near Canterbury.
However, those considering the walk should note that some parts may be overgrown and uneven.
