The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Kent

There are over 20 family-friendly hiking trails around Kent featured in this guide, with the majority being easy and suitable for various ages and fitness levels. You'll find a good mix of short, accessible walks and slightly longer adventures.

Kent offers a diverse range of landscapes perfect for families. You can explore the rolling chalk hills and grasslands of the Kent Downs, ancient woodlands like Blean Woods, or enjoy coastal paths along the White Cliffs of Dover and the Thanet Coast. Many trails also follow scenic river valleys.

Yes, many trails are designed to be accessible for families. For a gentle stroll, consider the Belltower Brewing loop from Kent, which is just under 3 km. Another easy option is the John Brown Tannery Park – Belltower Brewing loop from Kent, which is around 3.3 km.

Kent has numerous circular routes that are great for families. The Portage Bike Trail loop from Kent offers a pleasant 6.8 km circuit. Many sections of the North Downs Way and Greensand Way also feature shorter, family-friendly circular options.

Absolutely! Many trails are close to interesting spots. For example, you can explore areas near Hudson Springs Lake or Trail Lake Park. The Kent boardwalk along Cuyahoga River is also a lovely spot for a walk with views of the Cuyahoga River.

Some trails are multi-use and have surfaces suitable for both hiking and biking, which can be great for pushchairs too. The Portage Hike & Bike Trail is a good example, offering a relatively flat and well-maintained path. Another option is the longer Bike & Hike Trail.

The family-friendly trails in Kent are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 24 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessibility, scenic beauty, and variety of routes suitable for all ages.

Kent is rich in wildlife. Ancient woodlands like Blean Woods are home to diverse bird species and, in spring, are carpeted with bluebells. Coastal areas and nature reserves such as Elmley Nature Reserve on the Isle of Sheppey offer chances to spot lizards, hares, and various bird species. The Kent Downs also boast chalk grasslands rich in wildlife.

Spring and summer are particularly beautiful for family hikes in Kent. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, especially bluebells in the woodlands, and pleasant temperatures. Summer offers longer daylight hours and opportunities for picnics, though some coastal paths can be exposed. Autumn provides stunning foliage, while winter walks can be crisp and offer unique scenic views, especially along the coast.

Many of Kent's ancient woodlands, such as Blean Woods or sections of the Greensand Way, provide ample shade, which is ideal for summer hikes. You'll also find numerous parks and designated picnic spots along various routes, especially in areas like Goodyear Heights Metro Park.

For more detailed information about the diverse and special landscapes of Kent, including the Kent Downs and High Weald Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you can visit the Visit Kent blog.