Top 5 Autumn Walks in Kent

The National Pinetum at Bedgebury lies at the heart of Kent’s High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. While the Pinetum is world-renowned for its conifer collection, at this time of year it is ablaze with autumn colour. A walk down Dallimore Valley passes the liquid amber, tulip trees, ginkgos, oaks, black birch and recently-planted nyssas, all of which have been chosen for their spectacular autumn colour. Around Marshal’s Lake, the dawn redwoods and swamp cypresses, despite being conifers, all take on various shades of burnt orange and foxy red before shedding their needles. The spindle and maples are already turning a vivid pink.

There are several trails you can opt to take at Bedgebury – take a look at this map to choose yours. On three different dates throughout October, there is also a guided autumn colour walk experience available.

This walk around the village of Wye has some challenging climbs in places but offers some spectacular views from the Downs, together with some fascinating local features. Wye Crown, a landmark that can be seen for miles around, was created in 1902 by local students to mark the coronation of King Edward VII. Wye Downs National Nature Reserve is managed by English Nature and offers views over the Devil’s Kneading Trough and beyond. Follow the route provided by Kent Downs National Landscape here.

For an invigorating and bracing outing, nothing beats a cliff-top walk from St Margaret’s to Kingsdown. Start and the old War Memorial and follow the Saxon Shore Way towards Deal. Refreshments can be taken either at the Bluebird Tea Rooms at the Memorial or at the Zetland Arms Pub in Kingsdown.  The walk should take about 45 minutes, and if you are heading from St Margaret’s, there is a gradual slope all the way down to Kingsdown, of course, this means a slight incline all the way back if you choose to walk back!

Another lovely area to explore for walks and gardens is the Goodnestone Park Gardens.  You can either go into the Gardens themselves or explore in and around the pretty village of Goodnestone, where there are a number of walks suitable for all ages.