Winter walks in Kent

National Trust rangers in Kent have pulled together their top trails to blow away the cobwebs. Throw on some wellies for an invigorating woodland walk around Chartwell, or take in the frosty countryside around Ightham Mote. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as robins and snowy squirrels on an estate walk around Scotney Castle. Every step you take helps us keep pathways clear for years to come.

Looking at the West face of the house with frosted foliage on the wall in front

Ightham Mote's circular walk to Knole 

Get two for the price of one on this circular walk, taking in a 600-year-old manor and historic family seat in Kent. Start out at Ightham Mote, then follow our trail through areas of outstanding natural beauty to Knole Park, before returning to Ightham Mote via the Duchess Walk, Godden Green and Broadhoath Wood. There are some stunning views along the way, framed by frosty bare branches.

Try the walk
Chartwell house from Mariners Hill

Mariners Hill  

Explore Mariners Hill on this loop trail; an extension of our Westerham to Chartwell trail. The Mariners Loop crosses through National Trust and Squerryes Court land and has been made possible by the kind support and permission of the Warde family.

Climb Mariners Hill
Setting off for a walk in Knole Park

Knole self-guided trails 

Discover three different walks in Knole's 1,000 acre deer park this winter. A woodland ramble suited to families, a walk around the edges of the park to spot the famous seven oaks, and a wheelchair and pushchair friendly tour of the park's highlights await.

Explore the ancient parkland
The parkland in the winter sun

Scotney parkland trail 

See a different view of the medieval ruin from the parkland trail, which loops around the estate. In winter, stark vistas open up across the moat and up towards the house, giving a different view of the historic landscape. Wrap up warm and turn right into bare-branched Kilndown Wood, where squirrels scuttle between the majestic trees and red berries add a splash of festive red. Pop into the cafe afterwards for a warming hot chocolate.

Discover the trail
A crisp winter morning overlooking the orchard at Chartwell

Walk the Chartwell estate 

Start out exploring over 80 acres of farm and woodland at Chartwell before venturing further afield on one of our winter walks. Families will love the forty-five minute walk to discover our natural play area, whilst those out for a longer hike can go out into the Weald to Toys Hill or Mariners Hill.

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Walking through the Sissinghurst estate

Sissinghurst Castle estate walk 

Discover the winter highlights of the 450-acre wider estate. Nestled in the heart of the Weald, this landscape inspired the creation of a world-class garden and the prolific writing of Vita Sackville-West.

Explore the estate