Attractions and Places To See around West Malling - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around West Malling include a variety of sites, from ancient landmarks to natural spaces and cultural points of interest. This historic market town in Kent features well-preserved buildings and monuments that reflect its rich history. The area offers diverse opportunities for exploration, including historical sites and scenic trails.
Best attractions and places to see around West Malling
- The most popular attractions is Ightham Mote, a historical site that is a medieval moated manor house. It is a Grade I-listed property managed by the National Trust, featuring gardens, an orchard, lakes, and woodlands.
- Another must-see spot is Pilgrims Way Stone Bench and Monk Statue, a man-made monument. This highlight along the Pilgrims Way offers a place to rest and provides views of the Kent Downs AONB.
- Visitors also love Pilgrims Way, a trail. This route offers options for hiking and cycling, with scenic views and varied terrain extending towards Canterbury.
- West Malling is known for its historical sites, natural parks, and cultural points of interest. Visitors can explore ancient landmarks, serene natural spaces, and charming local attractions.
- The attractions around West Malling are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 350 upvotes and more than 100 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Ightham Mote
Highlight • Historical Site
As cyclists I think we can all relate to riding around the country and spotting the house we dream about living in… although probably smaller
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Kit's Coty House Megalithic Tomb
Highlight • Monument
Under the management of English Heritage, you can visit the standing stones for free. Kit's Coty House remains standing whilst Little Kit's Coty House has long since fallen and lies as a stone jumble. No one knows where these burial places got their names from, but they are rather charming.
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Pilgrims Way Stone Bench and Monk Statue
Highlight (Segment) • Monument
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Dode Church and Lost Village
Highlight • Religious Site
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Pilgrims Way
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Tips from the Community
Anyone who wants to walk the "Pilgrim's Way" with Canterbury Cathedral as their destination, not just as a long-distance hiking trail for pleasure (whether on foot or the faster option by bike), but also consciously follow the medieval tradition as a pilgrim, may find some inspiration on this website =>> https://www.pilgrimways.org.uk/the-pilgrims-way-winchester-southwark-to-canterbury
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A detailed description of the history of the two Stone Age sites, which are now known under the – historically inexplicable – names “Kit's Coty House” and “Little Kit's Coty House”, is available for the culture-loving hiker on the following official website: => https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/kits-coty-house-and-little-kits-coty-house/history/
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One of the best stretches of road in the south-east. Rolling without being hilly, the surface is mostly good and the views are exceptional. You can ride Pilgrims Way on and off all the way to Canterbury.
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Following the Black Death, the village was abandoned, and the church stood empty for centuries. In 1990 Doug Chapman, a chartered surveyor who had worked at Canterbury Cathedral, purchased the church and began restoring the building, originally with the intention of turning it into a weekend home. Since 1999 it has been licensed as a civil wedding venue.
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You can visit Kit's Coty House only by foot or by bicycle. The stones stand on a hill in a field surrounded by a fence. Only 1 km away you find another megalitc site - Little Kit's Coty House https://www.komoot.de/highlight/5174880
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Very easy to miss this lovely spot, just off to the left as you're nearing the top of the climb.
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Ightham Mote is a medieval moted manor house owned and managed by the National Trust. It was built almost 700 years ago and houses a collection of interesting objects and art. The property has gardens and a wider estate which you can visit if you wish. It's paid entry unless you are a NT member. There's also a cafe and shop on site which makes it a great place to either start a run or stop at halfway. If you're running here, the most obvious loop starts at Ightham Mote, Knole or Sevenoaks station and follows the Greensand Way. There are lots of other options within the 580-acre (235 ha) estate to explore if you fancy staying local.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in West Malling?
West Malling is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Norman keep of St Leonard's Tower, explore the ancient Ightham Mote, a medieval moated manor house, or discover the megalithic tombs of Kit's Coty House. Don't miss Malling Abbey, home to Benedictine nuns, or the historic St Mary's Church with its Norman origins. The Twitch Heritage Centre also offers a glimpse into RAF West Malling's WWII history.
Are there natural parks or green spaces for outdoor activities?
Absolutely! Manor Park, formerly the grounds of Douces Manor, offers 52 acres with walking trails, picnic areas, and a children's park, perfect for wildlife spotting. Leybourne Lakes Country Park is another Green Flag award-winning site spanning 230 acres, featuring woodlands, lakes, and opportunities for water sports like canoeing and open water swimming, alongside walking paths.
What are some family-friendly attractions around West Malling?
Families will enjoy Manor Park with its children's play area and open spaces for picnics. Leybourne Lakes Country Park also has a children's park and offers various water activities. The historic Ightham Mote, a medieval moated manor house, provides an engaging historical experience with its gardens and estate.
Where can I find ancient monuments near West Malling?
Beyond the town, you can visit Coldrum Long Barrow, a Neolithic monument predating Stonehenge, managed by the National Trust. The Kit's Coty House Megalithic Tomb, managed by English Heritage, offers a fascinating look at the region's ancient past with its standing stones and views of the Kent Downs.
Are there good walking or hiking routes in the area?
Yes, West Malling is surrounded by excellent walking opportunities. The Pilgrims Way offers scenic views and varied terrain towards Canterbury. Manor Park and Leybourne Lakes Country Park both have well-maintained walking trails. For more detailed routes, explore the hiking guide around West Malling.
What cycling opportunities are available near West Malling?
The area around West Malling is popular for cycling. The Pilgrims Way is a fantastic route for both hiking and cycling, offering scenic views. You can find various routes for touring bicycles in the cycling guide and for road cycling in the road cycling guide around West Malling.
What cultural points of interest can I discover in West Malling?
Beyond historical buildings, West Malling offers cultural experiences like the picturesque Malling Abbey Cascade, a highly photographed spot. The town's High Street features charming Georgian buildings and independent shops. Keep an eye out for blue plaques commemorating significant events, including one for The Beatles' filming of *Magical Mystery Tour*.
Is there a local market in West Malling?
Yes, the West Malling Farmers' Market is held on the fourth Sunday of every month. It's a great place to find local produce and experience the town's vibrant community atmosphere.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions nearby?
Consider visiting the Dode Church and Lost Village, a historic site a short distance from West Malling. Abandoned after the Black Death, the restored church now serves as a unique civil wedding venue, offering a glimpse into a lost medieval village.
What are the best times to visit West Malling's attractions?
West Malling's attractions can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for exploring the natural parks and walking trails, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Historical sites like Ightham Mote and Malling Abbey are accessible in most seasons, though checking specific opening times for tours is advisable.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around West Malling?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views from places like Kit's Coty House and along the Pilgrims Way. The tranquility of natural spaces like Manor Park and Leybourne Lakes Country Park is also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the rich history found in sites like Ightham Mote and the charm of the historic town itself.
Most popular routes around West Malling
Most popular attractions around West Malling
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