The best walks and hikes in Hemsted Forest
4.3
(414)
2,579
hikers
181
hikes
Hikes in Hemsted Forest lead through a mix of coniferous and broadleaf woodland located within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The landscape is characterized by gently undulating terrain with a network of both hard-surfaced roads and numerous unsurfaced tracks. This variety of paths provides options for walking in different conditions, though some unsurfaced sections can become muddy.
Best hiking trails in Hemsted Forest
- The most popular hiking route is Hemsted Forest & Cranbrook loop — High Weald, a 9.8 mile (15.7 km) trail that takes about 4 hours 5 minutes to complete. This moderate hike combines woodland paths with sections through the surrounding countryside.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Hemsted Forest Trails loop from Roger's Wood, an easy 4.0 mile (6.4 km) path. The route follows well-defined forest tracks through the heart of the woodland.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Hemsted Forest Trails loop from Benenden School, a 3.8 mile (6.2 km) trail leading through mixed woodland, often completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Hiking in Hemsted Forest is defined by its mixed coniferous and broadleaf woodlands and gently rolling hills. The network of Hemsted Forest trails offers both shorter, accessible walks and longer, more moderate routes.
- The routes in Hemsted Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 350 reviews. More than 2,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Hemsted Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.5
(14)
49
hikers
15.7km
04:07
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
15
hikers
6.44km
01:42
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
5
hikers
8.28km
02:12
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
5
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
These old windmills are the best proof that people were clever enough a number of centuries ago - long before the discovery of electricity and the inventions that resulted from it - to harness the power of the elements for their own purposes: no human or animal muscle power is needed for the grinding process, but the wind captured by the covered wings is enough to drive the heavy millstones and thus, for example, to grind flour from grain (grain mills) or to press oil from olives (oil mills). Often they are only technical and historical evidence of a long tradition of craftsmanship, because most - although fortunately not all - of the old mills have been abandoned over time.
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Union Mill is a Grade I-listed smock mill and is one of the tallest of its kind in Britain. Built in 1814 by millwright James Humphrey, the grand timber-framed structure continues to grind corn to this very day. The mill is free to enter (a donation is requested). For more information, visit: unionmill.org.uk.
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The town achieved prosperity in the 14th to 16th centuries through the cloth trade. Often called the “Capital of the Weald” it retains great charm and is dominated by a fine smock windmill built in 1814 for Henry Dobell.
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The Chapel is noted for its stained glass windows; the Four Seaons Windows by Mike Woodford
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A charmingly modest ‘colonial’ style chapel built in the 1930s by Messrs Colt, a local firm specialising in timber.
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St Dunstan's Church, also known as the Cathedral of the Weald, in Cranbrook, Kent, England, dates to the late 13th century. It is now Grade I listed. Its 74 feet-high tower was completed in 1425.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hemsted Forest a good place for dog walking?
Yes, Hemsted Forest is an excellent choice for dog walking. The extensive network of tracks provides plenty of space for dogs to explore. However, please be mindful of wildlife, such as dormice and ground-nesting birds, and keep your dog under control, especially during nesting season in spring and summer.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in Hemsted Forest?
Absolutely. The forest offers many gentle walks suitable for families. A great option is the Hemsted Forest Trails loop from Sissinghurst Castle and Garden, which is a relatively short and easy walk. The main gravel tracks are also wide and well-surfaced, making them ideal for walks with children.
What are the parking arrangements at Hemsted Forest?
There is a large, free car park available at Hemsted Forest, located off Cranbrook Road. It provides direct access to the main trails. As it's a popular spot, it can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving earlier in the day is a good idea.
What is the terrain like for hiking in Hemsted Forest?
The terrain is best described as gently undulating. You'll encounter a mix of wide, hard-surfaced gravel tracks and narrower, unsurfaced paths. While there are no steep mountains, some routes involve continuous gentle climbs and descents, offering a pleasant but not overly strenuous workout.
Are there circular walking routes available?
Yes, most of the popular trails in Hemsted Forest are loops. This makes planning a walk straightforward as you can easily return to your starting point. For a longer, more challenging circular route that also explores the surrounding countryside, consider the Hemsted Forest Trails – Union Mill loop from Benenden School.
What are the trail conditions like in winter?
During winter, the main hard-surfaced gravel roads remain accessible and provide a solid walking surface. However, the smaller, unsurfaced tracks can become very muddy and wet, so waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended if you plan to explore off the main paths.
Are there any accessible or stile-free trails?
Yes, Hemsted Forest has a designated "Stile Free Trail" along its main hard-surfaced tracks. These paths are wide and generally suitable for mobility scooters and robust pushchairs, though be aware that some sections do have gentle but continuous slopes.
How does walking in Hemsted Forest compare to Bedgebury Pinetum?
Hemsted Forest offers a more natural, wild woodland experience with free parking and fewer facilities. It's ideal for those seeking quiet walks. Bedgebury National Pinetum is a larger, more developed destination with a visitor centre, cafe, bike hire, and paid parking. It's great for a full day out with more amenities, while Hemsted is perfect for a classic, peaceful forest hike.
How many hiking trails are there in Hemsted Forest?
You can find nearly 200 different routes for hiking in and around Hemsted Forest on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls of just a few miles to longer, more moderate hikes that take several hours to complete.
What do other hikers think of Hemsted Forest?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful mix of coniferous and broadleaf trees, and the well-maintained network of paths that offer options for all abilities.
Can I get to Hemsted Forest using public transport?
Accessing Hemsted Forest directly via public transport is challenging as there are no bus stops or train stations at the forest entrance. The nearest towns with transport links are Cranbrook and Staplehurst, but you would need a taxi or a long walk from there. Arriving by car is the most practical option.
Most popular routes in Hemsted Forest
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