The best walks and hikes around Combwell Wood

Yes, the area is excellent for circular hikes. While the main public footpath through Combwell Wood itself is linear, it connects to a wider network of trails that create fantastic loops. For a shorter, accessible option, consider the Impressive Horse Chestnut Tree loop from Kilndown, which is an easy 5.4 km walk perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Dog walking is popular in the area, but it's important to be responsible. As Combwell Wood is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) with sensitive wildlife and is adjacent to farmland, dogs should be kept under close control at all times, and on a lead where required by signage or when near livestock.

The most convenient way to access the trailheads around Combwell Wood is by car, as the area is rural. There is no dedicated car park for Combwell Wood itself. Hikers typically find informal roadside parking in nearby villages like Kilndown or Flimwell, but please park considerately and legally, without blocking access for residents or farm traffic.

Absolutely. The region offers several easier walks suitable for families. The Bedgebury Pinetum loop — High Weald is a great choice; at just 4.5 km with minimal elevation, it's an easy and engaging walk through a managed forest environment.

Combwell Wood is an ancient woodland with a rich history. It was once the site of an Augustinian Priory and played a role in the Weald's historical iron industry. As you walk, you might spot evidence of charcoal burning platforms and coppicing, which are traditional woodland management practices that have shaped the landscape for centuries.

They offer different experiences. Combwell Wood provides a more natural, wilder feel with its ancient woodland and unique 'gill' valleys. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest offers more structured, managed trails, including a world-renowned collection of conifers and dedicated family cycling paths. You can even combine both, for example on the Bedgebury Forest loop from Kilndown, a longer route that explores the wider area.

Trails can be very muddy, especially after rain. The paths within the steep-sided 'gills' can be particularly slippery and uneven. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended for a comfortable and safe walk, regardless of the season.

Yes, there are several excellent options for a longer day of hiking. A popular choice is the Bewl Water – Bewl Water loop from Kilndown, a moderate 12.8 km route that combines beautiful woodland scenery with expansive views across the reservoir.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with over 3,500 hikers exploring the trails. The routes have earned a high average rating, with walkers often praising the beautiful ancient woodland, the unique 'gill' landscapes, and the stunning bluebell displays in spring.

The public footpaths are generally marked with standard waymarkers. However, the network of trails can be complex. Using a GPS device or the komoot app on your phone is the best way to follow your chosen route and explore with confidence, ensuring you stay on the public rights of way.

Yes, the nearby villages such as Kilndown, Goudhurst, and Flimwell have traditional pubs and cafes that are perfect for a post-hike meal or drink. They are a short drive from most trailheads in the area and offer a welcome rest after exploring the woods.

The 'gills' are a key feature of the High Weald landscape. They are steep-sided, narrow valleys carved by streams into the local sandstone. They create a unique, humid microclimate and are home to rare mosses and ferns, making them a fascinating part of any walk in Combwell Wood.