Enjoy a Kentish woodland walk

Enjoy a Kentish woodland walk

Shorne Woods Country Park near Gravesend is a popular walk with something for everyone and perfect for this time of year

Location: Shorne Woods Country Park, near Gravesend, DA12 3HX

Distance: 0.75 miles (1.3km), allow 30 minutes

OS Explorer Map: 148

Terrain: Mixture of hard, compact surfaces with some loose stones

Parking: Car park at entrance to the park

Refreshments: Café in the park

Step Count: Approx. 1,800

Shorne Woods is a 288-acre site made up of ancient woodland teeming with flora and fauna. Ponds and lakes are home to dragonflies and this walk will take in the beautiful countryside and natural habitats of the many species of wildlife.

The 1.3km route gives visitors the chance to experience the vast landscape that makes up this part of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

It is easily accessible with no stiles or gates, and the hard surface, makes it ideal for those who use a wheelchair or pushchair. It is one the many Easy Access Routes around Kent, perfect for those who prefer the ground to be flat and level.

As you past by, look out for the silver birch trees which will eventually be outgrown by the oak, yew and sweet chestnut trees growing beneath them, and the sensory garden where you will be able to enjoy the colour, fragrance, touch, shape and sound of the outdoors.

The route is easily accessible with no stiles or gates, and the hard surface, makes it ideal for those who use a wheelchair or pushchair. It is one the many Easy Access Routes around Kent, perfect for those who prefer the ground to be flat and level.

Shorne Woods Country Park sits within the former grounds of Cobham Hall. Now an independent girls’ school, Cobham Hall dates from 1587 and is the past home of the Earls of Darnley. The most famous is the Honourable Ivor Bligh, who captained the England cricket team in Australia in 1883.

There is a wealth of history and archaeology within the park; from Stone Age flint tools scattered on the high heath, to the remains of the 20th-century clay industry, which created much of the park's contours today.

A Second World War RAF billet camp still lies hidden in the trees, and a grand medieval manor house with numerous outbuildings once stood looking down a slope towards the Thames.

After all the adventures in the woodland, Furzy Leas meadow, is a great area for fishing and games and has an impressive children’s playground. Here everyone gets the chance to rest and take in the fantastic panoramic views of the Thames.

Once you’ve explored the park, why not stop off for a well-earned drink and a snack at the eco-friendly Discovery Centre’s cafe before you head home.

This circular walk is one of a number of easy access walks produced by Kent 's Countryside Access Service. If you liked this walk, you can find more on the Explore Kent website or call 08458 247 600 for further information.

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