DAYSOUT
WINTER WANDERS
If it’ s a daytime exploration you’ re after, there’ s nothing quite like a brisk ramble through Kent’ s scenic surroundings- basking in fresh air and marvelling at landscapes dusted in frost. Here’ s where to step it out this season, from rolling hills to coastal trails, all sparkling under winter skies.
Wye National Nature Reserve & Wye Downs Walk, Wye kentdowns. org. uk
A year-round favourite for walkers but particularly striking in the winter frost, the Wye National Nature Reserve stretches across 134 hectares of rolling chalk grassland. Follow the Wye Downs walk around the quaint village and its blissful countryside, pausing at the Wye Crown- a famous hillside landmark carved into the chalk, created to mark the coronation of King Edward VII. You’ ll also want to stop and ponder over the tremendous views of the Devil’ s Kneading Trough- the largest and most dramatic of the steep-sided dry valleys.
Samphire Hoe, Dover samphirehoe. com
Tucked beneath the White Cliffs of Dover and created during the construction of the Eurotunnel, this fascinating 30-hectare nature reserve is home to over 200 species of plants and 220 species of birds. Its mesmerising chalk landscapes and sweeping views across the English Channel make for a beautiful destination to stretch your legs by the sea. Wheelchair and pushchair friendly, the reserve’ s accessible walking trails and abundance of wildlife are a hit with families, nature lovers and avid birdwatchers alike.
© Kent Downs National Landscapes
WYE NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE
Harvel Hike, Harvel kentdowns. org. uk
Between the village of Harvel and the North Downs Way, this pleasant 6.6-mile route traces the southern edge of the North Downs and merges with the historic Pilgrims’ Way- the ancient path once travelled by pilgrims journeying between Winchester and Canterbury. Beginning at Trosley Country Park, walkers can explore landscapes laced with unique grassland and mixed woodlands, soaking up scenery that perfectly captures Kent’ s rural charm.
Royal Military Canal, Hythe kentdowns. org. uk
Following Kent’ s coast from Seabrook through Hythe and beyond, this mighty historic canal offers 28 miles of tranquil walking or cycling perfect for beginners. Originally built during the Napoleonic Wars( 1803 – 1815) as a line of defence, today it’ s a haven for wildlife, with the likes of kingfishers and marsh frogs often spotted along its waters.
© Kent Downs National Landscapes
SAMPHIRE HOE
Ightham Mote Circular Walk to Knole, Sevenoaks nationaltrust. org. uk
A beautifully picturesque circular walk starting from Ightham Mote, a splendid 14th-century moated manor house, gardens and estate. Weaving through the Kentish countryside, along the Greensand Way and passing through National Landscapes, the trail brings its explorers to the delights of Knole Park, a 600-year-old estate set within Kent’ s last medieval deer park. The route then makes its way back to Ightham Mote via the Duchess Walk, Godden Green and Broadhoath Wood- passing plenty more enchanting views and hidden marvels on the way.
© Kent Downs National Landscapes
HARVEL HIKE
www. insidekent. co. uk • 55