Unplug on a countryside day trip from London to Kent Downs

When life in London starts to feel like a never-ending loop of trains, meetings, and noise, sometimes all you need is a change of scenery. Just an hour away, the Kent Downs offer a day steeped in scent, stillness, and scenery. Rolling hills, charming villages, and peaceful trails make this an ideal escape for fresh air and soul-soothing views.     

I recently took a day trip to Shoreham in the Kent Downs and was blown away by how easily you can unplug and recharge in such a beautiful landscape. Here’s a little guide if you’re craving a refreshing day out filled with nature, history, and relaxation. 

9am – Getting to Shoreham from London 

Hop aboard a Southeastern train to Shoreham from London Bridge, London Victoria, or St Pancras Thameslink. The ride takes 35 to 50 minutes, depending on your departure point. 

The train journey is a gentle transition from city to country. Office buildings give way to fields, station names become more poetic (Otford, Eynsford), and the green of Kent begins to spill into view. 

By the time I arrived at the tiny Shoreham station, I was already breathing deeper. The scent of fresh grass and countryside air greeted me like an old friend. 

Train tip: Be sure to search for “Shoreham (Kent)”, not Shoreham-by-Sea. Aim to arrive by 10am to make the most of the day. Railcard holders can take advantage of Off-Peak deals, and families should check out the “Kids for a Quid” offer. Planning more adventures in the area? The Kent Rover ticket covers unlimited regional train travel for three days. 

10am – A slow morning in Shoreham 

From the train station, I strolled slowly into the village centre. Shoreham is the kind of place that feels unchanged over time. There’s stillness in the air, broken only by birdsong and the occasional bicycle bell. The River Darent glides gently past weathered cottages, and leafy paths lead off in every direction. 

I found a perfect spot at The Honey Pot Tea Rooms, where tea is served with warm scones on the side.  

Later, I wandered to the flint-faced Church of St. Peter and St. Paul and sat by the river, watching the water trickle beneath stone bridges. If you enjoy history, there’s even a small aircraft museum near the station that tells the story of local wartime pilots. 

Everything in Shoreham whispers: “There’s no rush.” 

11.30am – Lavender fields at Castle Farm 

Leave Shoreham via Church Street, and follow the quiet country lane south for around 15 minutes until you arrive at Castle Farm, home to the largest lavender fields in the UK. Even before I saw the sea of purple, the scent of lavender was unmistakable and calming. 

From late June to mid-July, the fields are in full bloom, transforming the landscape into a living canvas of violet stripes. The sight is breathtaking, with the long lines of lavender rising and falling over the hills. 

Castle Farm offers pre-booked Lavender Walks, allowing you to wander among the fields and learn about how this fragrant crop is grown and harvested. These walks are immersive, deeply sensory, and worth every minute. 

Even outside peak season, the farm is lovely. In autumn, it glows with colour, hop vines hang drying in the barns, and the Hop Shop is full of apples, squashes, cheeses, and scented soaps. I picked up a few local goodies for my picnic ahead. 

1pm – Gentle walk and picnic with a view 

With my basket full, I set off on the Ridges and Valleys Rail Trail walk, a beautiful 5-mile loop through the heart of the Kent Downs countryside. The path soon leads you uphill through shaded woodland, where the air is cool and filled with birdsong. 

The path winds gently uphill into cool, shady woodland, where you’re surrounded by the kind of silence that feels healing. About an hour in, near a quiet valley called Magpie Bottom, I found a little rise overlooking the landscape. The perfect picnic spot. 

I laid out my lunch, and simply sat. No notifications. No small talk. Just me, the wind, and the green. 

Refreshed, I continued on. The path passes the Pilcher Monument, a small stone tribute to Percy Pilcher, who once tested gliders here. Standing there, looking out over the Darent Valley, I could see why. The openness makes you feel like you could fly too. 

The trail then heads down through an old, abandoned golf course, slowly returning to nature, before looping back toward Shoreham village. 

4pm – Tea in the garden, or a cosy pub to finish 

Back in Shoreham, reward yourself. You’ve earned it! 

I headed to The Mount Vineyard, where the terrace was dappled in sunlight and quiet conversation. I grabbed a seat under the vines and ordered a chilled elderflower juice and a pot of Birchall’s tea. It was a calm moment to sit, recharge, and take in the quiet around me before heading home. 

If you are in a mood for something heartier, step into The Kings Arms or The Two Brewers. These classic English pubs offer comforting menus, low wooden beams, and the soft hum of a relaxed local crowd. End your day with a meal, perhaps a shepherd’s pie or a seasonal salad. 

5pm – Return to London 

As the evening light began to fade, I made my way back to Shoreham station. Trains run about once an hour, but keep in mind the journey back can sometimes get busy with the evening rush-hour crowd. To avoid the rush, I caught an earlier train, making for a much quieter ride. 

In just an hour, I was back in the city, ready to take on the world again, but with my clothes faintly scented of lavender, boots dusted with chalk, and my heart full of green hills and open skies. 

You’ll arrive back in London by 6pm, just in time to meet friends, grab dinner, or simply enjoy the quiet after a perfect day spent in nature. 

Tips for your Kent Downs adventure 

• Check the weather and dress accordingly with layers rain gear or sun protection depending on the day. 

• Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking a fair bit, so trainers or hiking boots are your best bet. 

• Bring a refillable water bottle. Stay hydrated during your countryside adventures. 

• Check train schedules. Plan your return journey to ensure you don’t miss the last train. 

• Look out for Southeastern Railway ways to save! Off-Peak tickets, railcards, and regional options like the Kent Rover ticket can save you money and offer flexibility if you want to explore more. Booking in advance is also a good idea. 

• Camera essentials. You’ll want to capture these moments, so make sure your phone or camera is charged!