Kent Downs National Landscape

Aspiring Cross-Channel UNESCO Global Geopark

Discover the Kent Downs National Landscape, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty stretching from the white cliffs of Dover to the Surrey and London border. With ancient bluebell woodlands, rugged chalk coastline, internationally rare chalk grassland, and ragstone villages there is beauty to explore all year round.

If you look after land in the Kent Downs National Landscape or you help people to access the Kent Downs, we have a range of grants, funding, and support available for nature recovery, biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and sustainable visiting initiatives.

The Kent Downs Blog & News

A couple sitting on a stone bench at the top of a hill, facing a wide, green countryside. The view stretches across fields and forests, with a circular arrangement of stones surrounding the bench. The image captures the peaceful, elevated perspective of the landscape on a clear day.

Help shape the Kent Downs Management Plan 2026–203116th September 2025Share your views on what makes the Downs special and how it’s cared for. Survey open until 2 November 2025.Save Help shape the Kent Downs Management Plan 2026–2031 to favourites

Protect our pollinators and keep the Kent Downs buzzing13th August 2025Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hoverflies are essential to the Kent Downs, supporting wildlife, crops, and local ecosystems. However, invasive Asian hornets pose a…Save Protect our pollinators and keep the Kent Downs buzzing to favourites

Best cycling routes in Kent Downs for scenic rides 11th August 2025Explore the Kent Downs by bike and enjoy wildflower meadows, chalk cliffs, vineyards, and charming villages along peaceful, easy-to-reach routes. Whether you’re up for a…Save Best cycling routes in Kent Downs for scenic rides to favourites

A cottage garden bursting with colourful flowers sits beneath a cloudy sky, with a church steeple and village houses in the background.

London to Kent Downs: Perfect countryside day trip guide16th July 2025Escape the London rush with a peaceful day trip to Kent Downs, where rolling hills and charming villages offer the perfect countryside retreat. Unplug, explore,…Save London to Kent Downs: Perfect countryside day trip guide to favourites

Two individuals walking through a vineyard with rows of grapevines in the foreground.

Kent Downs vineyards guide: where to taste the best English wines5th June 2025Explore Kent Downs vineyards and taste award-winning wines. Learn about the region’s chalky soil, sustainable viticulture, and the best vineyards to visit in this beautiful…Save Kent Downs vineyards guide: where to taste the best English wines to favourites

Three people enjoying a picnic in a lush forest. Two are seated on a fallen tree trunk and one is standing nearby. A picnic blanket on the ground is spread out with various food items, including fruits, sandwiches, drinks, and paper bags—one of which displays the text 'BURNS & WEBBER.' Tall trees and dense, green foliage frame this peaceful outdoor scene.

The best picnic spots in the Kent Downs8th May 2025Explore the best picnic spots in Kent Downs, offering tranquil woodlands, panoramic hilltop views, historical sites, and peaceful settings. Enjoy nature, wildlife, and beautiful landscapes…Save The best picnic spots in the Kent Downs to favourites

‘Stunning’ Kent views enhanced by UK Power Networks’ investment18th June 2025Kent Downs National Landscape is proud to see stunning new views unveiled across the Stour Valley following UK Power Networks’ £485,000 investment to underground 2km…Save ‘Stunning’ Kent views enhanced by UK Power Networks’ investment to favourites

Best camping sites in the Kent Downs for the perfect outdoor escape17th March 2025Explore top camping and glamping spots in the Kent Downs. Enjoy scenic stays, campfires, and nature trails in this stunning landscape.Save Best camping sites in the Kent Downs for the perfect outdoor escape to favourites

aerial view of a path through the north kent woods and downs forest

Discover the North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve16th May 2025Discover the newly designated North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve, a vibrant mosaic of ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, and chalk grasslands. Part of…Save Discover the North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve to favourites

A peaceful rural landscape featuring a body of water surrounded by grassy fields. Four horses of varying colors graze near the water’s edge. Trees and bushes frame the scene, and a wooden fence is visible in the background. The setting captures the tranquility of countryside life, with natural beauty and open space.

Celebrating the legacy of the Darent Valley Landscape Partnership Scheme7th May 2025Just 15 kilometres from London, the Darent Valley Landscape Partnership Scheme (DVLPS) has spent seven years restoring chalk grasslands, conserving historic sites, and connecting communities…Save Celebrating the legacy of the Darent Valley Landscape Partnership Scheme to favourites

group of men working in a yard in Darent Valley

Discovering the rich archaeological heritage of the Darent Valley28th May 2025Just 15 km from London, the Darent Valley reveals a rich tapestry of history through Roman villas, medieval sites, and community-led archaeology. From prehistoric tools…Save Discovering the rich archaeological heritage of the Darent Valley to favourites

A group of sheep gathers in a sprawling field at sunset. In the foreground, two lambs with soft white wool stand close together, facing the viewer as they catch the warm glow of the setting sun. In the background, more sheep graze and wander across the gently illuminated pasture, creating a peaceful, pastoral scene.

Lambing season in the Kent Downs17th February 2025Discover the importance of lambing season in the Kent Downs and find a place near you to meet some cute, fluffy lambs!Save Lambing season in the Kent Downs to favourites

A rural panorama featuring three tractors at work on a freshly harvested field. The tractors, outfitted with various attachments, navigate rows of cut grass or hay. In the background, green hills dotted with trees and a fence along the right edge frame the scene under a clear, lightly clouded sky.

Celebrating the impact of Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) in the Kent Downs6th March 2025Discover how FiPL is restoring landscapes, supporting sustainable farming, and protecting nature in the Kent Downs National Landscape.Save Celebrating the impact of Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) in the Kent Downs to favourites

A green field with tall grass stretches toward a stone building with a tower, surrounded by trees, as the sun sets behind distant hills under a partly cloudy sky—one of 2024 highlights in scenic landscapes.

Our 2024 Highlights13th December 2024We're sharing our top 10 highlights for 2024, including mapping ponds, new ambassadors, and launching new projects.Save Our 2024 Highlights to favourites

Two figures—a parent and a child—are seen walking along a winding path on a hillside sprinkled with dry grass and sparse, bare trees. In the background, expansive fields merge into a distant view of a village beneath a cloudy, overcast sky, suggesting a chilly day.

Top ten Twixmas walks in the Kent Downs15th November 2024Enjoy some fresh air and spend time in nature after the indulgence of Christmas with our handpicked Twixmas walks, perfect for winter.Save Top ten Twixmas walks in the Kent Downs to favourites

10 Top Tips for Enjoying the Outdoors: Making Memories While Staying Safe28th October 2024Here are 10 tips on staying safe outdoors whilst exploring the Kent Downs National Landscape this autumn and winter.Save 10 Top Tips for Enjoying the Outdoors: Making Memories While Staying Safe to favourites

Official launch of the Cross-Channel Geopark celebrated at inaugural festival with special guests Stephen Clarke and Nick Crane14th October 2024Discover the Cross-Channel Geopark, officially launched during the inaugural Cross-Channel Geopark Festival at Château d’Hardelot in October 2024. This exciting event celebrated the shared geological,…Save Official launch of the Cross-Channel Geopark celebrated at inaugural festival with special guests Stephen Clarke and Nick Crane to favourites

Unearthing Kent’s Hidden Ponds…27th August 2024Exciting progress in the Kent Downs Heritage Ponds Project with over 350 historic ponds mapped so far. Discover how we're reviving Kent’s hidden aquatic treasures.Save Unearthing Kent’s Hidden Ponds… to favourites

SALT + EARTH: Festival returns to Folkestone this October!15th August 2024Celebrate nature, culture, geology and community at the SALT + EARTH: Festival of Landscape, Seascape & The Environment, returning to Folkestone from 4 to 6…Save SALT + EARTH: Festival returns to Folkestone this October! to favourites

Late summer orchids in the Kent Downs30th July 2024Discover the orchids to look out for in August and where to spot them in the Kent Downs.Save Late summer orchids in the Kent Downs to favourites

The Best Viewpoints in the Kent Downs AONB

The Best Viewpoints in the Kent Downs20th February 2023Searching for incredible views? Look no further! We've rounded up the best viewpoints in the Kent Downs.Save The Best Viewpoints in the Kent Downs to favourites

GeoAdventures Festival – discover the wonders of the Cross-Channel Global Geopark!29th April 2024GeoAdventures is a vibrant nine-month festival celebrating the aspiring Cross-Channel UNESCO Global Geopark, taking place across the stunning landscapes of the Kent Downs and Caps…Save GeoAdventures Festival – discover the wonders of the Cross-Channel Global Geopark! to favourites

Top spots to watch the sunset in the Kent Downs22nd October 2023Discover our favourite places to watch the sunset in the Kent Downs National Landscape.Save Top spots to watch the sunset in the Kent Downs to favourites

Chalk Hill Figures in the Kent Downs25th July 2022There are four distinctive hill figures carved into the iconic chalk of the Kent Downs - have you seen them all?Save Chalk Hill Figures in the Kent Downs to favourites

North Downs Way National Trail Event at Perry Court Farm6th June 2024Find out more about the Putting Down Routes event at Perry Court Farm. Located on the North Downs Way National Trail in the Kent Downs…Save North Downs Way National Trail Event at Perry Court Farm to favourites

A Year in the Kent Downs5th January 2024Discover our ‘must do’ experience for each month in the Kent Downs. How many have you ticked off?Save A Year in the Kent Downs to favourites

Join our journey to UNESCO status!

In celebration of the chalk and the channel, we are working to secure Cross-Channel UNESCO Global Geopark status for the Kent Downs National Landscape together with our neighbouring protected landscape in France; the Parc Naturel Regional des Caps et Marais d’Opale. There will be lots of ways for everyone to get involved!

Cross-Channel Geopark Festival 2025Join us at Dover Castle for a celebration of geology, culture, and community at the Cross-Channel Geopark Festival 2025!Save Cross-Channel Geopark Festival 2025 to favourites

"A panoramic view showcasing the iconic White Cliffs of Kent. The brilliant chalk cliffs rise sharply from a gently rippled coastal beach, contrasted against a partly cloudy sky. Sparse greenery accentuates the rugged texture of the white limestone, emphasizing the timeless natural beauty that defines this historic Kentish coastline.

Aspiring Cross-Channel UNESCO Global GeoparkFind out more about our aspiration for a Cross-Channel UNESCO Global Geopark and how you can get involved Save Aspiring Cross-Channel UNESCO Global Geopark to favourites

SALT + EARTH FestivalSALT + EARTH: Festival of Landscape, Seascape & The Environment returns this October! Join us for a weekend of artworks, walks, workshops, community gatherings and…Save SALT + EARTH Festival to favourites

A pair of hands holding a spiral ammonite fossil with prominent ridges along its shell. The softly blurred background emphasizes the fossil's detailed natural texture and historical significance.

GeoAdventuresJoin us for this ongoing festival celebrating the rich geodiversity of our Cross-Channel Global Geopark!Save GeoAdventures to favourites

A scenic coastal landscape featuring rolling grassy hills dotted with shrubs. A winding path meanders through the hills toward the coastline, where a calm sea meets a clear sky with a few scattered clouds. The soft early morning or late afternoon light creates a tranquil, peaceful atmosphere.

GeositesGeosites are places of geological interest across our UNESCO Cross-Channel Global Geopark, where you can visit and interact with our unique geological heritage.Save Geosites to favourites

GeoDiversityOur new National Lottery Heritage Fund project to help more people discover their local incredible geodiversity and explore personal stories and connections with the landscape.Save GeoDiversity to favourites

Geopark AmbassadorsMeet our Geopark Ambassadors, your guides to the Cross-Channel Geopark.Save Geopark Ambassadors to favourites

Geopark Education ResourcesEducational resources that have been designed to help individuals, teachers, home schoolers and lifelong learners understand and value the geodiversity, biodiversity and cultural stories of…Save Geopark Education Resources to favourites

#UpTheKentDowns

The Kent Downs National Landscape has exactly what visitors desire for all year round, unmissable, sensory, and immersive experiences, where you can ‘live like a local’ and enjoy your short breaks sustainably.

Group of people, walking away from camera, on green fields, with vineyard on the left. Sunny day.

#UpTheKentDowns#UpTheKentDowns showcases the Kent Downs National Landscape as an exciting all-year-round destination offering wonderfully diverse experiences.Read more

Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Top DownsWe're celebrating 55 years of the Kent Downs National Landscape with our 55 top places to visit.Read more

Close-up action image of person using rolling pin to roll pastry.

Chow DownsFind the favourite places to go for a real taste of Kent and try the finest local produce in enchanted locations.Experience now

Person standing looking out over beach, mobility scooter nearby. Clear day with white cliffs in background.

Adventure DownsWith the wind in your face & fresh air in your lungs you’ll find time-short thrills and epic week-long escapades right here.Experience now

Lavender fields with trees in background, blue skies.

Natural DownsCultivate the mind with experiences that celebrate and nurture the land and local way of life.Experience now

Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre with wooden footpath.

Show DownsFrom the ancient to the impressive, we’ve plenty of iconic and natural attractions to leave you awestruck.Experience now

Artists paints, pencils and sketch pad on grass.

Draw downsWitness an inspiring coast & countryside that will ignite your creative fire.Experience now

Two children sitting in the ground at the entrance to a wood built camp. Smiling and looking at camera.

Play downsLet mother nature play host and let your wildlings roam free with our family focused activities.Experience now

Group of people walking into church grounds on a sunny day.

Track downsTread in the footsteps of saints, crusaders and inspirational artists on a journey of self-discovery.Experience now

Two people sitting on beach, looking out to sea.

Power downsFree the mind and body in your own 878 km2/sq.km wellness retreat.Experience now

Horses grazing on grass, with wetlands and trees surrounding.

Wild downsHead into the wilderness and meet our own wild residents on a homegrown expedition.Experience now

Experiences

Discover unique experiences in the Kent Downs with local experts. Each experience offers an authentic and immersive insight into the Kent Downs, it's nature and heritage

Arts & CraftsMosaic Makers in NatureLearn the ancient art of mosaic on this nature experience in the Kent Downs National Landscape, with afternoon tea included. 4 hours £100 per person Save Mosaic Makers in Nature to favourites

WellbeingA Sensory Journey in NatureEscape on a sensory journey with Hinoki Forest Bathing. Led by a qualified Forest Bathing guide, you are invited to take in the relaxing atmosphere… Less than 3 hours £25 Save A Sensory Journey in Nature to favourites

"Interior of a clear-plastic greenhouse with raised wooden beds filled with thriving plants. Hanging flower pots showcase purple blooms alongside festive bunting draped across the structure. A person wearing a straw hat and gray t-shirt stands in the center with arms crossed, along a gravel pathway, underscoring a well-organized, productive gardening environment.

Food & DrinkBecome a Rebel FarmerQuit the hustle and bustle and discover what it means to be a Rebel Farmer: learn to make organic fruit and veg all-year-round, tour a… 4 hours Save Become a Rebel Farmer to favourites

Historic timber-framed buildings with flower boxes overlooking a narrow canal in Canterbury, Kent.

Arts & CraftsCapture Kent (Canterbury)Join Capture Kent on a relaxed 2-hour photography walking experience, taking in Canterbury’s medieval ramparts, its Norman Castle, and its meadows and rivers. 2.5 hours £80 Save Capture Kent (Canterbury) to favourites

A panoramic view of Langdon Cliffs in Dover, Kent. The striking white chalkface of the cliffs contrasts with rolling green hills and a winding pathway that leads down to a rugged, rippled coastal beach. In the distance, a ferry terminal and a ship emphasize the area's maritime connection, capturing the historic and natural beauty of this iconic part of the White Cliffs of Dover.

Arts & CraftsCapture Kent (Dover Cliffs)Join Capture Kent on a relaxed 2-hour photography walking experience, taking in the iconic coastline and natural beauty of Dover Cliffs. 2.5 hours £80 Save Capture Kent (Dover Cliffs) to favourites

Arts & CraftsCreative Glass ClassesJoin Creative Retreats and Holidays for a range of creative glass classes in the Kent Downs National Landscape and be inspired by the beautiful surroundings. 3 hours to 2 days From £30 Save Creative Glass Classes to favourites

A person wearing a red jacket and a patterned scarf stands outdoors against a softly blurred green background reminiscent of a park or garden. In one hand, they hold a colorful drawing that shows a pastoral scene—a man standing by a gate with a walking stick and three figures walking amid trees, bushes, and rolling hills. In the other hand, the person also holds a walking stick.

Arts & CraftsCreative PilgrimsGrab a sketchbook and explore ancient churches, take in spectacular views and capture memories — by drawing them! Half a day/Whole Day £50 half day, £90 whole day including food Save Creative Pilgrims to favourites

Two children are engaged in wood carving outdoors in a forest. The child on the left, wearing a red jacket, uses a tool to whittle a piece of wood, while the child on the right, in a green jacket and pink shorts, carves with a knife. The ground is covered with dirt and fallen leaves, and trees and foliage fill the background, creating a natural, outdoorsy setting.

Family FunFamily Mini Survival AdventureJoin Natural Pathways in the woodlands of the Kent Downs National Landscape for a Family Mini Survival Adventure, where you'll build shelters, campfires and cook… 3 hours £25 per person Save Family Mini Survival Adventure to favourites

Food & DrinkGourmet Foraging DaysEscape to the coast or ancient woodland on gourmet foraging experiences near Deal and Canterbury, led by Lucia from The Wild Kitchen. 5-8 hours £129 Save Gourmet Foraging Days to favourites

Food & DrinkKent Cookery SchoolVisit The Kent Cookery School, a place for all food lovers of all abilities to learn, enjoy and cook up a feast using local ingredients… 3-5 hours £70 Save Kent Cookery School to favourites

Arts & CraftsMedway Valley Countryside PartnershipSpend the day unwinding with traditional craftwork in the serene surroundings 3-5 Hours £85 per person Save Medway Valley Countryside Partnership to favourites

In a sunlit forest clearing, one person stands and gestures while three others sit on logs and the ground, engaged in conversation under a canopy of lush green trees.

Outdoor ActivitiesMindful CoachingIf you value self-development, want help realising your personal goals, or even just take a moment to reset in nature, Martin will help you get… Half a day/Whole day Save Mindful Coaching to favourites

An outdoor campfire scene with burning logs arranged in a rustic circle. A black cast-iron pot hangs over the fire, holding a smaller metal container in which a round loaf of bread bakes, capturing the essence of traditional, open-fire cooking.

Outdoor ActivitiesNatural PathwaysDiscover what it was like to be a traditional woodsman and immerse yourself in the culture, myth and folklore around Kent's ancient Great Oak trees.Save Natural Pathways to favourites

WellbeingOff-grid Woodland CampingJoin Badgells Wood for an off-grid experience as close to wild camping as possible, but with hot showers! Various Save Off-grid Woodland Camping to favourites

Food & DrinkOut to the Woods – Chapattis on a ChulaLearn traditional Indian cooking techniques and tools — in the heart of Kent’s woodlands! Learn how to follow ancient recipes to make delicious wood-fired chapatis…Save Out to the Woods – Chapattis on a Chula to favourites

Arts & CraftsOut to the Woods – Woodland Wreaths and Flower CrownsLearn how to make traditional rustic wreaths and spectacular floral crowns using woodland materials, immersed in the serene and historic surroundings of Kent's Admiral Woods,…Save Out to the Woods – Woodland Wreaths and Flower Crowns to favourites

Arts & CraftsOutdoor StudiosThe Outdoor Studios team will teach you all about the local area during a guided walk, sharing their ecological expertise, revealing how they use nature… 3-5 Hours £100 pp Save Outdoor Studios to favourites

Food & DrinkSimpsons’ Tour and Tasting ExperienceVisit Simpsons' Wine Estate for a vineyard and winery tour, followed by a guided tasting of their range of wines produced here in the Kent… 3 hours £30 Save Simpsons’ Tour and Tasting Experience to favourites

A panoramic view of a mindful forest bathing session led by Tansy. She stands at the forefront, wearing a teal coat and hat, guiding a small group of participants dressed in outdoor attire along a sunlit woodland path. Lush green trees and dappled sunlight evoke a serene atmosphere of nature connection and wellbeing

WellbeingSoul Setting JourneyJoin Tansy in the Wild for a gorgeous day of walking and intention setting around the stunning Kent Downs National Landscape. 5-8 hours From £55 Save Soul Setting Journey to favourites

A selection of handcrafted wooden spoons arranged on a rustic wooden surface. Some of the spoons are partially carved, showcasing flat-edged handles and a natural wood finish that highlights the traditional craft of spoon making.

Arts & CraftsSpoon Carving/Green WoodworkingLearn to carve a spoon from green wood, using axe and knives in a beautiful woodland setting in the Kent Downs National Landscape. 1 day £90 Save Spoon Carving/Green Woodworking to favourites

Arts & CraftsThis Art of MineExperience the joy of working with clay in the calm and inspiring surroundings of the Kent countryside. Create your own platter to take home, before…Save This Art of Mine to favourites

A group of people standing and talking outdoors near white chalk cliffs at Kent Downs, with a visitor centre and grassy area in the background.

Family FunWhite Cliffs Countryside – Samphire HoeBe one of the first to join a new exploration birdwatching off Samphire Hoe, the spectacular nature reserve at the foot of the imposing White… 3 Hours £60 per person Save White Cliffs Countryside – Samphire Hoe to favourites

Wildlife & NatureWhite Cliffs Countryside – Samphire Hoe – Ranger for the DayExplore the nature reserve with your experienced ranger, meet the local livestock and leave a real legacy on the area with a spot of conservation…Save White Cliffs Countryside – Samphire Hoe – Ranger for the Day to favourites

Show all experiences

The North Downs Way National Trail

The North Downs Way National Trail offers walkers and cyclists 153 miles (246 km) of spectacular scenery, picturesque villages and glorious rolling countryside, passing through the Surrey Hills and Kent Downs National Landscapes.

A wooden signpost for the North Downs Way shows a direction marker for Patrixbourne 4 1/2 miles away, with icons for walking, cycling, and horseback riding. In the background, a narrow road is lined with hedges and bordered by a thatched-roof cottage partially covered in greenery, along with trees. A small sticker on the sign features a person in yellow clothing holding a blue flag.

Walking tagsNorth Downs Way National TrailThe 153 mile (245 km) North Downs Way National Trail from Farnham to Dover offers spectacular views and a fascinating heritage, passing through the Surrey… Farnham Save North Downs Way National Trail to favourites

Putting Down RoutesPutting Down Routes seeks to make the North Downs Way National Trail a safe, inclusive and accessible destination where all are welcome.Save Putting Down Routes to favourites

North Downs Way Art TrailTrack down the 9 sculptures along the North Downs Way and soak up art in the great outdoors, or as we like to call in…Save North Downs Way Art Trail to favourites

Find a North Downs Way AmbassadorOur trained North Downs Way ambassadors are passionate and knowledgable. Find an ambassador near you and enjoy exploring the trail.Save Find a North Downs Way Ambassador to favourites

Discover Kent's Heritage Coast

Explore the magnificent chalk cliffs between Folkestone and Kingsdown form Kent’s Heritage Coast, one of Britain’s most evocative and best-known landmarks and the only UK destination to feature in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2022.

Culture & HeritageVisit nature’s heritage coastA cultural and heritage experience amongst two sites of special scientific interest in the Kent Downs. 1 day Save Visit nature’s heritage coast to favourites

Walking tagsSouth Foreland Lighthouse walkDiscover the White Cliffs of Dover, the most iconic symbol of our county, along this refreshing walk overlooking the English Channel - one of the… St Margaret-at-Cliffe Save South Foreland Lighthouse walk to favourites

Beaches tagsShakespeare CliffShakespeare Cliff, thought to have inspired a passage from Shakespeare's King Lear, is a dramatic cliff-top site with stunning views over Samphire Hoe and Dover… Dover Save Shakespeare Cliff to favourites

Cycling tagsCathedral to Coast cycle ride – Canterbury to DoverUndertake your own Pilgrim's Progress on this marvellous 50 mile (80km) circular ride using Regional Routes 16 and 17 linking Dover, Canterbury and Folkestone. Canterbury, Dover, Folkestone Save Cathedral to Coast cycle ride – Canterbury to Dover to favourites

Walking tagsKing Charles III England Coast Path – KentRoaming from the sandy beaches of Camber through to the white cliffs at Ramsgate the first stretch of the King Charles III England Coast Path… Deal, Dover, Dungeness, Folkestone Save King Charles III England Coast Path – Kent to favourites

Walking tagsStour Valley walkFollow the route of the River Stour from its source at Lenham, in the heart of the Garden of England, to the historic city of… Lenham Save Stour Valley walk to favourites

Kent’s Heritage Coast – Lonely Planet Best in Travel1st January 2022 Save Kent’s Heritage Coast – Lonely Planet Best in Travel to favourites

2023, Year of the Coast29th August 2023In celebration of the Year of the Coast, we've handpicked our top 10 coastal experiences in the Kent Downs National Landscape for you to try!Save 2023, Year of the Coast to favourites

Easy Access Trails

Ideal for people who are wheelchair users, those with pushchairs or just those who like flat surfaced routes with no gates or stiles.

Easy access routesIdeal for wheelchair users, those with pushchairs or just those who like flat surfaced routes with no gates or stiles.Save Easy access routes to favourites

Shorne Woods Country Park easy access trail

Walking tagsShorne Woods Country Park Stile Free TrailShorne Woods Country Park has it all: woodland, waymarked trails, a pond, a sensory garden, a picnic area, a trim trail, a café and so… Shorne Save Shorne Woods Country Park Stile Free Trail to favourites

Walking tagsJeskyns easy access trailThis all-ability route follows hard fine surfaced paths over gently rolling hills taking in Henhurst Lake. Gravesend Save Jeskyns easy access trail to favourites

A group of deer grazes on a lush, grassy field in front of a large, historic stone building with multiple chimneys, windows, and a pitched roof. Tall, leafy trees frame the scene under a clear blue sky, creating a harmonious blend of nature and architecture.

Walking tagsKnole Stile Free TrailA walk of 3 miles (4.8km). Paths continually climb and descend throughout the walk. Admission to park is free. Parking charges apply. Opening times 10.30am… Sevenoaks Save Knole Stile Free Trail to favourites

A peaceful countryside scene featuring a grassy field and a pathway leading to a wooden gate. A wooden signpost stands nearby with two directional signs, one pointing left with 'Nuffield Gate' and the other right with 'Car Park.' The background shows trees under a cloudy sky, evoking a tranquil setting ideal for walking or hiking.

Walking tagsWhite Horse Wood Stile Free TrailA short walk of 0.7miles (1.1km) through Kent County Council's newest country park. A longer walk can be completed of 0.9miles (1.4km) if viewing Thurnham… Thurnham Save White Horse Wood Stile Free Trail to favourites

Walking tagsCamer Park Stile Free TrailA linear walk of 1.25 miles (2km). The path surface across the park is short grass followed by a hardened surface with occasional stones up… Meopham Save Camer Park Stile Free Trail to favourites

Walking tagsSamphire Hoe Stile Free TrailEnjoy magnificent views along this coastal walk through the newest part of Kent. Samphire Hoe has been created from the spoil excavated during the construction… Dover Save Samphire Hoe Stile Free Trail to favourites

Sustainable Visiting & Accessibility Initiatives

Find out about our work to help support sustainable tourism in the Kent Downs and help everyone enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of this beautiful landscape

Our UNESCO Global Geopark AmbitionCelebrating and protect our natural and cultural assets whilst contributing to the sustainable development of the local economy.Read more

Enhancing Access OpportunitesHow can we help to increase public access in the Kent Downs for health and wellbeing where it is most needed?Read more

Three friends laugh as they walk across open grassland. Two are walking and one in an electric wheelchair.

Changing Places ToiletsOur commitment to installing two Changing Places toilets in the Kent Downs National Landscape, working with our colleagues in Kent Country Parks.Read more

Two people standing looking at the night sky, through a telescope, in a field with campfire behind them.

Sustainable TourismSupporting sustainable, low-impact tourism activities to secure the future resilience of our natural and cultural assets.Read more

Green Pilgrimage ProjectHow the economic benefits of PiIgrimage tourism can protect natural and cultural heritage.Read more

Grants & Funding for Rural Businesses

Find out about grants and funding for rural businesses in the Kent Downs to support nature recovery, biodiversity, sustainable tourism

Farming in Protected LandscapesA grant programme for landowners and landmanagers for projects to support People, Place, Climate & Nature in the Kent Downs.Read more

Sustainable TourismSupporting sustainable, low-impact tourism activities to secure the future resilience of our natural and cultural assets.Read more

Tree Planting & EstablishmentFree and subsidised trees to help protect our irreplaceable trees and woodlands ensuring 'Right Tree, Right Place'.Read more

Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation

Find out more about our work on the ground to help conserve and enhance this landscape, mitigate and adapt to climate change and our aspirations for UNESCO status as a Cross-Border Global Geopark.