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The bluebell bank at Emmett Garden in Kent, in full bloom
Bluebells at Emmetts Garden | © National Trust Images/David Sellman

Countryside and woodland in Kent

From ancient woodland to Iron Age hillforts, the countryside of Kent is ripe for exploring. Dig out your walking shoes and get ready to discover some of the county's most beautiful rural spots.

Countryside and woodland in Kent

Spring sun through the trees at Toys Hill, Kent
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Toys Hill 

Discover lots of walking routes, points of historical interest and wide-ranging views at one of Octavia Hill’s favourite places. Visit to see the landscape that inspired her.

Scathes Wood in Spring Paul Simons
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The estate at Ightham Mote 

As the weather becomes warmer, wildlife, trees and wildflowers come alive across the Ightham Mote estate, while and birdsong fills the air.

People walking dog at One Tree Hill, Kent
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One Tree Hill 

One Tree Hill’s mosaic of habitats is home to some rare species of fauna. Find out which ones to look out for, along with the best routes for walking.

Two women walking along a footpath surrounded by bare trees in winter.
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Cobham Wood 

Discover Britain's 'wild wood' past through 190 acres of historic wood pasture and views of the Kent countryside at Cobham Wood.

Standing stones at Coldrum Long Barrow at sunrise in winter, with bare tree in background
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Coldrum Long Barrow 

Stunning views from the top of the barrow

West Malling, Kent

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Road through woodland at Oldbury Hill Kent
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Oldbury Hill 

Discover Oldbury Hill near Sevenoaks in Kent – home to some wonderful woodland and one of the largest and finest Iron Age hillforts in the country.

Visitors walking dogs in the woodland at Blickling, Norfolk
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Petts Wood and Hawkwood 

Explore this woodland haven for wildlife, enjoy the peace and quiet here – so close to central London – and discover the plants and animals that live in this idyllic spot.

The bat tower at Toys Hill, Kent

Countryside car parks in Kent

Some of the Trust’s smaller and more secluded car parks: Oldbury Hill, TN15 0ET; One Tree Hill, TN15 0SN; Toys Hill, TN16 1QG.

Top walks in Kent

From discovering the Chartwell estate and the surrounding countryside, exploring the woodland and wildlife at Sissinghurst Castle Garden and enjoying the panoramic views at Toys Hill, here are some of the best walks in Kent.

Two visitors in warm coats walk through a wooden gate into spring woodland, with a small black and tan dog on a lead

Walking in Kent 

Explore woodlands, farmland, and fields with plenty of wildlife and birds on these top walks in Kent.

Outdoor activities in Kent

A cyclist enjoying a ride along a leafy lane in the Kent countryside
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Cycling, riding and running at Toys Hill 

With a network of bridleways, there are plenty of ways to explore Toys Hill including horse riding, mountain biking, road cycling and running on a 6km Run England route.

An aerial view of the estate at Knole with the house sat at the centre surrounded by parkland and trees
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Explore the park at Knole 

The parkland at Knole is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), covering 1,000 acres of trees, undulating valleys, open parkland and is home to a herd of wild deer.

All countryside and woodland in Kent

    View across the lake towards Scotney Castle, Kent

    Discover more in Kent

    Fairy-tale castles, historic royal residences and the home of Churchill can all be found in Kent.