Breathtaking walks
12:40, 09 November 2011
Experience the beauty of Kent's green hills, woodlands and spectacular coastline at your own pace, strolling while waves whisper on the shore and birds sing from the trees. There are endless walking opportunities allowing you to escape and unwind across the county.
Darling Buds of May Trail
Set in the 1950s in charming Pluckley, the Darling Buds of May TV series with David Jason and Catherine Zeta-Jones captured the hearts of Britain. The Darling Buds of May - Garden of England Trail by Produced in Kent was launched earlier this year to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the BBC series and will transport you back to the 1950s as you walk in the footsteps of the Larkins. Among the locations to visit are the Black Horse and Buss Farm - or Home Farm as it was in the series.
Dickens to Turner Walk
This recently opened four mile route links Turner's Margate to Dickens' Broadstairs. Along the way uncover the intriguing connections between the towns and two of the 19th century's most famous faces. Pass through Crampton Tower and Drapers Mill as well as discovering the parts of Broadstairs which Dickens chose as his favourite holiday destinations.
Enjoy breathtaking views over the English Channel on a three-hour journey along the magnificent White Cliffs of Dover. Starting from the visitor centre, you can stop off at the famous South Foreland Lighthouse, which was once the site of Faraday's work in pioneering the use of electricity in lighthouses. Return through the hills, where you can spot the interesting features of the chalk cliffs. Lianne Groves shares her experience on www.mykent.co.uk: "A great walk over the cliffs with something to see at every peak. You get the most fantastic view of the port."
Elham Valley Walk - Explore Kent Challenge
Part of the prestigious Explore Kent Challenge, the Elham Valley Walk links historic Canterbury to the beautiful town of Hythe through 22.5 miles of ancient woodland and traditional orchards. Complete the full route to win an Explore Kent Challenge certificate.
Jane Austin and Tonbridge Walk
An easy access walk which is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. This circular walk begins and ends at Tonbridge library, taking walkers on an journey to discover the inspiring connections between the Austin family and Tonbridge. Visit the school George Austin once attended and the church where many of the family worshipped and were buried.
Pegwell Bay Country Park
The park forms a significant part of the Pegwell Bay/Sandwich Nature Reserve and is home to a unique collection of nature and wildlife species that can be found nowhere else in the South East. Covered with wild, seasonal flowers throughout the whole year, the park is also home to some magnificent birds of prey that can be spotted above the beach and cliffs. Simon Pickering on www.mykent.co.uk said: "Pegwell Bay is part of the Thanet coastline that has global importance due to it containing at least three separate wildlife habitats in less than two miles."
Rochester Arts and Crafts Trail
Explore this ancient city and its famous connections through the Rochester Arts and Crafts Trail. The route promotes a selection of art galleries, traditional shops, boutiques, high street cafes and restaurants which are all inspired by historical and modern art.
Saxon Shoreway
A long-distance walking route named after the line of fortifications that defended the Kent coast throughout the Roman era. Step back in time and take your pick out of 160 miles of fine coastal walking steeped in culture and history. The route begins at Gravesend and draws to a close at the seaside town of Hastings in East Sussex.
Shorne Woods combines a modern and innovative visitor centre serving delicious Kentish produce with 288 acres of ancient woodland. The picturesque park is famous for its wildlife, unique plants and inspiring links to the past. Ideally located just minutes away from the M2/A2 between Gravesend and Medway.
Spooky Ghost Walks - The Historic Dockyard
Step into the creepy shadows of Commissioner's House Garden and the Victorian Ropery as you discover the dark secrets of the Historic Dockyard. Tales include the Legend of the Headless Drummer Boy as well as one of a real murder. The walks take place every Friday until December 16.