North Downs Way 7 : Cuxton to Detling

Starting from the village of Cuxton you are soon transported into a wilderness of wildflowers and open fields as you walk through the Ranscombe Nature Reserve.

This area is a wildlife oasis protected by the charity Plantlife who work to protect endangered and rare plants and flowers. Follow the footpath over the River Medway bridge* and although this short section is along a noisy motorway, it does allow for aerial views over the banks of the Medway at Wickham Reach.

As you continue on your walk you will soon find yourself walking into tranquil countryside with views stretching out over the River Medway.

This lofty walk passes the stunning Bluebell Hill viewpoint which is thought to be one of Kent’s finest vista. This is a perfect picnic lunch spot to take in the views
and the array of wildflowers and wildlife that thrives here. Another highlight of your walk is a short walk downhill from your lunch stop.

The impressive Kits Coty is an early neolithic megalith. This structure dates back to between 4000 and 3000 BC which makes it older than Stonehenge. The iron railings were added in the late 1800s to protect the monument from graffiti.

*The pedestrian footbridge is currently closed until next year while they make improvements to the safety barrier. A temporary shuttle bus runs from 6am to 7.30pm, departing every hour, subject to change. Please check before starting your walk.