The best walks and hikes around Goudhurst
4.4
(756)
4,995
hikers
47
hikes
Hikes around Goudhurst explore the rolling landscape of the High Weald, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by a patchwork of woodlands, agricultural fields, and meadows. Many routes feature lakeside trails around reservoirs like Bewl Water or pass through managed forests such as Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest.
Best hiking trails around Goudhurst
- The most popular hiking route is the Bedgebury Pinetum loop — High Weald, a 2.8 mile (4.5 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 10 minutes to complete. This easy walk follows well-maintained paths through a world-leading collection of conifer trees.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Bewl Water – Bewl Water loop from Kilndown, a moderate 7.9 mile (12.8 km) path. This route follows the perimeter of the largest body of inland water in the Southeast.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Scotney Castle – Impressive Horse Chestnut Tree loop from Kilndown, a 4.6 mile (7.5 km) trail leading through parkland and woodland, often completed in about 2 hours 5 minutes.
- Hiking around Goudhurst is defined by its expansive forests, large reservoirs, and rolling hills. The network of footpaths provides options for different ability levels, from short, accessible walks to longer, more challenging hikes.
- The routes in Goudhurst are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 170 reviews. More than 1,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Goudhurst's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
3.0
(2)
4
hikers
4.46km
01:09
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(11)
74
hikers
9.80km
02:37
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(6)
68
hikers
9.56km
02:34
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
31
hikers
7.54km
02:05
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(9)
17
hikers
12.8km
03:27
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Easy gravel trail through Bedgebury Forest, which makes for an excellent non muddy walk on a winters day
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Louisa Lake is a charming spot nestled within Bedgebury Forest, often encountered on the woodland bike trails. With a peaceful bench nearby, it’s the perfect place to pause and take in the scenery.
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Extensive forest and home to the National Pinetum. Many miles of great trails for family cycling and mountain biking, walking and running.
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Always a lovely place to walk around, can be muddy in some spots depending on the time of the year
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After the Hussey family gave up the house and the last resident of the family died, the house was initially converted into 6 apartments. Margaret Thatcher lived in one of them during her time as Prime Minister. Here she was "easier to protect" than in London. Now everything has been returned to the way it was before the conversion 😉
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This Victorian mansion was built in 1837. Constructed from sandstone quarried from the grounds of the Old Castle, its privileged position offers splendid views of the castle and the estate. As a curiosity, during Margaret Thatcher's time as Prime Minister, she had an apartment in this building. Currently, it is owned by the National Trust, and you can find more information, plan your visit, and check the opening times at: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/scotney-castle
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The pinetum at Bedgebury is the largest in the world. There are over 12,000 specimen trees here of various species. You can search using a species library tool on the Bedgebury website.
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The visitor centre has a shop, café, toilets and information about the forest, You can pick up a leaflet of the waymarked running and walking trails here or see them on the big map. The café is open daily from 8:30. They serve drinks, snacks and light meals with indoor or outdoor seating.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any good circular walks starting from Goudhurst?
Yes, the Goudhurst area is excellent for circular walks. A great example is the Scotney Castle – Impressive Horse Chestnut Tree loop from Kilndown. This moderate 4.6-mile (7.5 km) route takes you through beautiful parkland and woodland surrounding the historic castle estate.
What are some easy, family-friendly walks near Goudhurst?
For a family-friendly outing, the Bedgebury Pinetum loop is a perfect choice. It's an easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) walk on well-maintained paths through a stunning collection of trees. The area also features a playground and cafe, making it a full day out.
Are the hiking trails around Goudhurst suitable for dogs?
Many trails in the High Weald are dog-friendly, especially through the open countryside and woodlands. Places like Bedgebury Forest and the paths around Bewl Water are popular with dog walkers. However, always be mindful of livestock in fields and keep your dog on a lead where required.
Where is the best place to park for a walk around Goudhurst?
For walks starting in the village, there is public parking available. For specific destinations, major attractions like Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest and Bewl Water have large, dedicated pay-and-display car parks with direct access to their trail networks.
Can you recommend a longer, more challenging hike in the area?
If you're looking for a longer walk, the Bedgebury Forest loop from Kilndown is a great option. This moderate 9.2-mile (14.8 km) hike takes you on a more extensive tour of the forest, offering a more immersive woodland experience than the shorter Pinetum trails.
What is the walk around Bewl Water like?
The trail around Bewl Water offers picturesque views across the largest body of inland water in the Southeast. The Bewl Water – Bewl Water loop from Kilndown is a popular 7.9-mile (12.8 km) section of the perimeter path, taking you along the shoreline through woodland and across meadows.
Are there any pubs on the walking routes near Goudhurst?
Yes, many routes pass through or near villages with traditional Kentish pubs, which are perfect for a mid-hike lunch or a post-walk reward. The village of Goudhurst itself has several options, and nearby villages like Lamberhurst and Kilndown are often incorporated into longer circular walks.
What kind of scenery can I expect on a Goudhurst walk?
Walks around Goudhurst showcase the classic High Weald landscape. Expect a beautiful patchwork of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, apple orchards, and hop gardens. Many trails offer expansive views from ridges and pass by scenic spots like Scotney Castle's moat or the vast expanse of Bewl Water.
Is it possible to reach the hiking trails by public transport?
Goudhurst is served by regional bus routes connecting it to nearby towns like Tunbridge Wells, which has a mainline train station. While some trailheads are accessible from the village, reaching more remote starting points like Bewl Water or Bedgebury Forest is often easier by car.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Goudhurst area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the variety of the landscape, from the impressive tree collections at Bedgebury Pinetum to the stunning lakeside views at Bewl Water and the classic rolling hills of the High Weald.
How many hiking trails are available around Goudhurst?
There are over 50 curated hiking routes to explore around Goudhurst on komoot. They range from short, easy strolls suitable for the whole family to more demanding all-day hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every ability level.
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