The best walks and hikes in Canterbury

Embark on an easy hike through the Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve loop, a unique wetland environment featuring extensive marshes, vast reedbeds, and serene lakes. This 4.0-mile (6.5 km) route, with a minimal elevation gain of 36 feet (11 metres), offers you a tranquil experience amidst diverse scenery, including the largest reedbed in the southeast of England and picturesque views of the River Stour. You can expect to complete this loop in about 1 hour and 38 minutes, enjoying earthy trails, grass paths, and some rolled gravel underfoot, though sturdy shoes are advisable for potentially muddy sections after rain.

Planning your visit to Stodmarsh is straightforward, as the main loop is largely considered an easy hike suitable for all fitness levels. While many sections are accessible, including some wheelchair-friendly sensory trails, be prepared for uneven ground in certain areas. The reserve is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to reconnect with nature at any time of day. Information posts along the circular walks enhance your understanding of this special place.

Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve is an internationally important wetland site, celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity. As you hike, you'll discover a haven for birdwatchers, with numerous bird hides and an observation mound providing excellent opportunities to spot rare species like bitterns, marsh harriers, and kingfishfishers. Beyond birds, the reserve is home to fascinating wildlife such as water voles, otters, and a rich variety of dragonflies, highlighting its significance as a natural habitat.

This moderate 6.0-mile (9.7 km) loop, taking about 2 hours and 34 minutes to complete with 323 feet (99 metres) of elevation gain, offers a diverse hiking experience. You'll follow tranquil riverside paths along the River Great Stour, known for its wildlife, before heading into picturesque orchards like No Man's Orchard, which are stunning when apple blossoms appear in spring. The route also takes you through hidden woodland paths and beautiful farmland, with sections of surfaced paths, gravel, and unpaved trails, providing a varied and engaging journey.

Starting and ending in the charming village of Chartham, this route is best enjoyed in April and May when the apple blossoms are at their peak. Be prepared for varied terrain, including sections of paved surfaces, gravel, and natural paths, as well as navigating cattle grids and wooden kissing gates. You will also cross minor roads and walk through fields; while generally flat, expect slight uphill sections, especially when heading towards Chartham Hatch and into the orchards.

The trail is notable for its rich history and natural beauty, passing by historical sites such as the remains of Tonford Manor and the ancient Iron Age hillfort of Bigbury Camp. A significant portion of the route utilizes the Great Stour Way, a 3-mile surfaced path that is part of National Cycle Network Route 18. The Stour Valley is a haven for wildlife, with kingfishers and grey herons often spotted along the river, and Thanington Lakes supporting diverse flora and fauna.

Hike the moderate 11.2-mile Bourne Park, Pett Bottom Valley & Gorsley Wood loop from Bekesbourne, exploring Kent Downs woodlands and histori

Hike the easy 4.1-mile Saxon Shore Way: Whitstable Coastal Loop, enjoying sea views, Tankerton Slopes, and Whitstable Harbour.

The Bourne Park to Gorsley Wood loop offers a moderate hiking experience through the Kent Downs, covering 9.1 miles (14.7 km) with 663 feet (202 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this journey in about 3 hours and 59 minutes. The trail takes you through a varied landscape of woodlands and open countryside, featuring a mix of natural paths, unpaved sections, and some paved surfaces. As you hike, you'll catch picturesque views of the historic Bourne Park House, a grand red-brick mansion from 1701, nestled within beautiful parkland. You'll also pass through the scenic Pett Bottom Valley and Gorsley Wood, which is especially known for its vibrant daffodil displays.

This moderate loop requires a good level of fitness and sure-footedness, making it suitable for those comfortable with longer walks and varied surfaces. The approximately 200 metres of elevation change includes some inclines and descents, contributing to its classification. While the research does not specify trailhead access or parking, it's generally advisable to check local information for the Kent Downs before you set out, especially concerning potential muddy conditions during wetter seasons.

Beyond the natural beauty, the route offers cultural insights with a glimpse of Bourne Park House and a passage by the historic St Mary's Church in Bishopsbourne, known for its connection to writer Joseph Conrad. The trail's ability to combine ancient woodlands, like Gorsley Wood with its daffodil displays, and open countryside provides a classic Kent Downs experience. This area is celebrated for its diverse chalk features, extensive ancient woodlands, and rich chalk grasslands.

Hike the moderate 7.1-mile Stour Valley Walk: Preston Loop through gentle countryside, open farmland, and along the scenic River Stour.

Hike the challenging 14.3-mile Barham to Ancient Wych Elm Grove loop in the Kent Downs, featuring woodlands, meadows, and valley views.