The best walks and hikes around Kenardington

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular walks. Many routes combine different types of scenery in one loop. For instance, you can find trails that take you along the flat Royal Military Canal, through ancient woodlands, and up to viewpoints like St. Mary's Church before returning to your starting point.

The paths along the Royal Military Canal are flat and easy, making them perfect for a family outing. For a woodland adventure, the Giant Redwoods Forest loop from Orlestone is an easy and relatively short walk that is engaging for all ages.

Most public footpaths in the area are great for walking with dogs. The wide-open spaces and woodland trails, such as those in Hamstreet Woods National Nature Reserve, offer plenty of room to explore. Please keep dogs on a lead where livestock is present and be mindful of wildlife, especially near the canal.

Many walks in the region are planned to pass through or near villages with traditional pubs. The villages of Appledore, Warehorne, and Woodchurch are common start or end points for hikes and have pubs that are popular with walkers for a post-hike refreshment.

The difficulty varies. You'll find very easy, flat walks along the canal, which are accessible to almost everyone. There are also a number of moderate hikes with some gentle climbs, such as the View of Gusbourne Vineyards – St Mary's Church, Kenardington loop from Appledore. Overall, the region is not known for strenuous mountain climbs.

The terrain is a mix of flat canal towpaths, woodland trails, and paths across rolling farmland. The low-lying areas, particularly near Romney Marsh and in the woods after rainfall, can become very muddy. It's always a good idea to wear waterproof hiking boots, especially outside of the summer months.

Parking is generally found in the villages where routes begin, such as Appledore or Warehorne, which offer on-street parking. For walks in specific nature reserves, like the highly-regarded Hamstreet Woods National Nature Reserve, there is a dedicated pay-and-display car park. Arriving early is recommended on sunny weekends.

Yes, several villages in the area are accessible by public transport. Hamstreet has a train station, making it a convenient starting point for walks into the nearby woods or towards the canal. Bus services also connect many of the local villages, but it's wise to check timetables in advance as services can be infrequent.

The region is rich in wildlife. Along the Royal Military Canal, you might spot kingfishers, dragonflies, and various waterfowl. The woodlands, such as Orlestone Forest and Hamstreet Woods, are known for native birds, butterflies, and beautiful displays of bluebells and fungi depending on the season.

Yes, the Saxon Shore Way, a 160-mile historical trail, passes through the region. You can walk sections of it, for example by following the path along the Royal Military Canal which forms part of the long-distance route.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. With an average score of over 4 stars, reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the variety of scenery combining woodland and waterways, and the historical points of interest like St. Mary's Church.

There are over 90 hiking routes to explore around Kenardington on komoot. They range from short, easy strolls to more challenging moderate day hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every ability level.