The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Selling

There are 18 family-friendly hiking trails around Selling, with 9 designated as easy and 9 as moderate, offering a good variety for different family abilities.

The trails around Selling feature diverse terrain, including rolling hills, expansive woodlands like Perry Wood, and open fields. You'll often traverse country lanes and footpaths winding through orchards. Some sections, especially in woodlands, can be muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Yes, for an easier and shorter option, consider the Perry Wood – View from The Mount loop from Selling. This 6.7 km (4.1 miles) trail explores Perry Wood and offers rewarding views from The Mount, making it suitable for families with younger children.

Many routes offer scenic vistas, particularly from "The Mount," providing views of the surrounding Kent Downs. You'll also encounter ancient woodlands like Perry Wood, known for its bluebells in spring, and walk through picturesque orchards. For a different perspective, the Footpath through orchard – View of the Estuary and Harty loop from Selling offers views towards the estuary.

Absolutely, many of the family-friendly trails around Selling are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Perry Wood – View from The Mount loop from Selling and the View from The Mount – Perry Wood loop from Selling, both offering lovely loops through the countryside.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore historical sites and natural monuments. Highlights include the historic St. Mary the Virgin Church in Selling village, or venture slightly further to see the Bluebells in King's Wood, the Millennium Stone and Wye Crown viewpoint, or even the Bigbury Camp hillfort.

Selling is beautiful year-round, but spring is particularly enchanting with bluebells in Perry Wood. Summer offers pleasant conditions for longer walks, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. Even in winter, the trails can be enjoyed, though some sections might be muddy, so check weather conditions and wear appropriate gear.

Many trails in the Kent Downs, including those around Selling, are dog-friendly. However, always keep dogs under control, especially when passing through fields with livestock, and be mindful of local signage regarding lead requirements. Remember to clean up after your pet.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around Selling, with an average score of 4.56 out of 5 stars from over 870 ratings. Hikers frequently praise the peaceful countryside, varied landscapes, and well-maintained paths, making them ideal for family outings.

For families seeking a longer adventure, the Dunseverick Court Area loop from Selling is a moderate 18.5 km (11.5 miles) trail that explores the wider countryside. Another moderate option is the View from The Mount – St Peter's Church, Molash loop from Selling, covering about 17.3 km (10.7 miles).

While specific parking details vary by trailhead, Selling village and its surrounding areas typically offer roadside parking or small car parks. It's advisable to check local information or maps for designated parking spots closest to your chosen starting point.