The best running trails in Hemsted Forest
4.3
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1,922
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158
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Jogging in Hemsted Forest offers a variety of routes through diverse landscapes within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region features a mix of coniferous and broadleaf woodlands set amidst gently rolling hills and an undulating landscape. Joggers can find both hard-surfaced roads for easier runs and an extensive network of unsurfaced tracks, providing options for different preferences and fitness levels.
Best jogging routes in Hemsted Forest
- The most popular jogging route is Hemsted Forest Trails loop from Roger's Wood, a 4.7 miles (7.6 km) trail that takes about 1 hour to complete, offering woodland paths and varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Hemsted Forest loop from Benenden School, a moderate 5.2 miles (8.4 km) path. This route leads through mixed woodlands, providing a scenic running experience.
- Local runners also love the Chapel of Our Lady, Benenden – Benenden Community Shop & Café loop from Goddard's Green, a 3.4 miles (5.5 km) trail leading through countryside and woodland sections, often completed in about 35 minutes.
- Jogging in Hemsted Forest is defined by mixed woodlands, gently rolling hills, and an extensive network of unsurfaced tracks. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more challenging running routes.
- The routes in Hemsted Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 1900 runners have used komoot to explore Hemsted Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
7
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
runners
7.63km
00:56
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
runners
8.41km
00:57
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
runners
13.7km
01:38
130m
130m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
If you're running in the area, this can be a great place to take a short break. In addition to being a community cafe, it serves as a shop and a post office managed by volunteers and other local village residents. All their products are sourced from local suppliers.
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Typical small tea room with delicious pasties and various cakes. We could sit outside when the sun was shining. Very friendly service.
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A charmingly modest ‘colonial’ style chapel built in the 1930s by Messrs Colt, a local firm specialising in timber.
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Managed by the Forestry Commission, Hemsted Forest is a network of trails with a hardpacked lane that circles the forest, perfect for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
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Give them a call first if there are more than 5 of you & they'll get in more staff
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Benenden’s is a community cafe, shop and post office run by village residents and volunteers. Well-placed for anyone hiking in the area, you can grab tea, coffee, savoury snacks and cakes, all from local suppliers. For more information, visit: https://www.benendens.co.uk.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Hemsted Forest?
Hemsted Forest offers a wide selection of running routes, with nearly 160 different tours available on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging trail runs, ensuring options for all fitness levels.
Are there easy jogging routes suitable for beginners or families in Hemsted Forest?
Yes, Hemsted Forest has 14 easy jogging routes perfect for beginners or families. The forest's hard-surfaced roads provide ideal conditions for a gentler run. For example, consider the Chapel of Our Lady, Benenden – Benenden Community Shop & Café loop from Goddard's Green, which is a moderate 5.5 km trail through countryside and woodland sections.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the running trails in Hemsted Forest?
The terrain in Hemsted Forest is diverse, featuring a mix of coniferous and broadleaf woodlands set amidst gently rolling hills. You'll find approximately five miles of hard-surfaced roads for easier runs, alongside an extensive network of unsurfaced tracks that are ideal for cross-country running, especially if you enjoy a bit of mud in winter.
Are the jogging routes in Hemsted Forest dog-friendly?
Hemsted Forest is generally very welcoming to dogs, making it a great place for a run with your canine companion. Many of the trails are suitable for dogs, but always ensure they are kept under control, especially given the diverse wildlife in the forest.
What natural features or wildlife might I encounter while running in Hemsted Forest?
Hemsted Forest is a haven for wildlife. While jogging, you might spot various bird species, deer, badgers, foxes, and even dormice thriving in the dense foliage. The mixed woodlands provide picturesque scenery throughout the seasons, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature.
Are there any circular running routes in Hemsted Forest?
Yes, many of the running routes in Hemsted Forest are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. A popular option is the Hemsted Forest Trails loop from Roger's Wood, a 7.6 km trail that provides varied woodland paths.
What do other runners say about their experience in Hemsted Forest?
The running routes in Hemsted Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 40 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained trails, and the peaceful woodland environment.
Are there any longer running routes for more experienced runners?
Absolutely. For those looking for a longer challenge, Hemsted Forest offers routes like the Running loop from Benenden, which spans 13.7 km. This route provides a good workout with varied terrain and elevation changes.
What are the best times of year to go running in Hemsted Forest?
Hemsted Forest offers a beautiful running experience year-round. The mixed woodlands provide picturesque scenery in every season. While unsurfaced tracks can get muddy in winter, they offer a challenging cross-country experience. Spring and autumn bring vibrant colors, and summer provides shaded trails.
Are there any nearby villages or amenities close to the running trails?
Yes, the historic village of Cranbrook and Benenden village are close by. Benenden is known for its community and historic buildings, and both offer further points of interest for visitors. You can find routes that pass through or near these villages, such as the Hemsted Forest loop from Benenden School.
Are there routes that start near Benenden School?
Yes, a popular route that starts near Benenden School is the Hemsted Forest loop from Benenden School. This moderate 8.4 km path leads through mixed woodlands, providing a scenic running experience directly from the village.
What is the elevation like on the running trails in Hemsted Forest?
The landscape of Hemsted Forest is characterized by gently rolling hills and an undulating terrain. While not mountainous, routes like the Running loop from Benenden can feature over 120 meters of elevation gain, offering a good challenge for runners.
Most popular routes in Hemsted Forest
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