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Where ridges rise above orchards and vineyards, and historic trails lead to Canterbury and the sea.
The Kent Downs National Landscape, covering a wide stretch of east Kent, is one of southern England’s most beautiful areas for walking holidays and outdoor adventures. Forming part of the chalk ridge that runs from the Surrey Hills to the White Cliffs of Dover, it offers sweeping views, hidden woodlands, and historic villages. The downs are shaped by a mix of chalk escarpments, beech woods, and river valleys, creating landscapes full of contrast and character.
For walkers, the North Downs Way National Trail is the defining route, crossing the ridges through villages, vineyards, and historic towns on its way to Dover. Elsewhere, rivers like the Stour, orchards, and traditional Kent villages such as Wye, Chilham, and Lenham make perfect bases for slow exploration.
North Downs Way (Kent Section)
The National Trail runs from Farnham to Dover, with the Kent stretch offering highlights including Canterbury, Wye Downs, and the White Cliffs.
Pilgrims’ Way
An ancient route walked by pilgrims to Canterbury Cathedral, crossing the Kent Downs through woodland, fields, and chalk ridges.
Stour Valley Walk
A riverside trail from Lenham to Pegwell Bay, passing through orchards, villages, and Canterbury.
Elham Valley Way
A 22-mile trail linking Canterbury and Hythe, following a disused railway through the heart of the downs.
The North Downs Way is the defining trail, crossing the chalk ridges and linking Surrey to Dover.
The North Downs is the name of the chalk ridge; the Kent Downs National Landscape protects the Kent section of it.
Yes — train stations at Wye, Ashford, and Canterbury give direct access to trails.
Canterbury, Wye, and Lenham all make excellent hubs with good rail links.
Spring for orchards in bloom, summer for long ridge walks, autumn for woodland colour, and winter for clear views over the Channel.
