VISITKENT
BYGGA BO
THE FORESTS & WOODLANDS OF KENT
by Visit Kent
No matter where you are in Kent , whether you ’ re walking along the seafront enjoying those stunning coastal views or you ’ ve stopped off for coffee in the town , you ’ re never far from the peace and quiet of our wooded landscapes . And for a county with two National Landscapes , it comes as no surprise that we ’ ve got plenty of places within and between them to enjoy the outdoors .
A walk through any of these spots is sure to leave you feeling refreshed , energised and in awe of the natural world . Leave the phones behind , pack some snacks and join us as we explore The Garden ( and forests and woodlands !) of England .
Kings Wood A sprawling , awe-inspiring display of nature lies across 588 hectares in Kings Wood . Known countywide for its bluebells in the spring , this spot doesn ’ t only shine for a quarter of the year – a visit during the autumn and winter months will see dazzling reds and oranges , while the picnic areas make for the perfect lunchtime spot .
West Blean and Thornden Woods If you go down to the woods today , you ’ re sure of a big surprise … with wild bison ! Within the West Blean and Thornden Woods , in collaboration with Kent Wildlife Trust , you ’ ll find some amazing work being done to promote the biodiversity and wildlife of the area . Not only have wild European bison been reintroduced , you ’ ll also find Exmoor ponies and Iron Age pigs !
Bigbury Camp Just a short hop from the hustle and bustle of Canterbury ’ s city centre , you ’ ll find Bigbury Camp , a hillfort in Howfield Wood and a site at which you can still see leftovers from its occupation in 350 BC . Today , as well as these defensive earthworks , you ’ ll find a wonderful range of wildlife , from buzzards to the common lizard .
Bedgebury Pinetum With a world-leading collection of conifers , Bedgebury Pinetum is definitely one to add to the list while visiting Tunbridge Wells . Stunning colours run throughout the land , with towering trees and a magnificent lake ensuring your trip is unforgettable . Miles of walking , cycling and running trails are sure to give you some inspiration on how to enjoy the area .
Great Comp Garden Sevenoaks might be one of the most picturesque spots to visit this time of year and if you haven ’ t had the chance to visit the Great Comp Garden , you ’ re in for a treat . Seven acres of rare plants can be found here , with ornamental grasses , a myriad of colour , beautiful borders in the garden and the welcome of tea and cake in The Old Dairy Tearoom .
King George VI Memorial Park Remember when we said you ’ re never far from Kent ’ s gorgeous green spaces ? King George VI Memorial Park proves our point , with a walk along its trail boasting a beautiful mix of wooded areas emerging onto wide seascapes . On the coastline between Ramsgate and Broadstairs , take the afternoon to stroll the grounds , soaking up the fresh air before stopping off at the stunning Italianate glasshouse café .
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