Kent, affectionately known as the “Garden of England,” boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes, from rolling hills and ancient woodlands to dramatic coastlines and serene meadows. For dog owners and their furry companions, this means a plethora of walking opportunities. Here’s a curated list of the best dog walks in Kent, ensuring a tail-wagging good time for your pet.
White Cliffs of Dover
One of the most iconic landscapes in the UK, the White Cliffs offer breathtaking views of the English Channel. The well-maintained paths are perfect for a brisk walk, and the open spaces atop the cliffs are ideal for dogs to run and play.
Blean Woods
Located near Canterbury, Blean Woods is one of the largest ancient woodlands in England. The myriad of trails here are perfect for exploratory walks, with plenty of sniffing opportunities for your canine friend.
Pegwell Bay
A coastal nature reserve near Ramsgate, Pegwell Bay offers a mix of salt marshes, mudflats, and sandy beaches. It’s a great spot for dogs to frolic in the water, and the flat terrains make it an easy walk for all ages.
Knole Park
Situated in Sevenoaks, Knole Park is a historic deer park surrounding Knole House. With over 1,000 acres to explore, it’s a haven for dogs. The vast open spaces interspersed with woodlands offer varied terrains for a delightful walk.
Mote Park
Located in Maidstone, Mote Park spans over 450 acres and includes woodlands, grasslands, and a 30-acre lake. The well-marked paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and there are designated off-leash areas for dogs to play.
Reculver Country Park
This coastal park near Herne Bay is known for its dramatic cliffs and the historic Reculver Towers. The Saxon Shore Way runs through the park, offering a scenic route for walkers and their dogs.
Hucking Estate
Managed by the Woodland Trust, the Hucking Estate near Maidstone offers a mix of woodlands and grasslands. The estate has designated dog walking routes, ensuring a hassle-free experience for both dogs and their owners.
Trosley Country Park
Nestled in the North Downs, Trosley Country Park offers a range of walking trails, from easy routes to more challenging ones. The panoramic views of the surrounding countryside are a treat for the eyes, and the varied terrains ensure an engaging walk for dogs.
Dungeness National Nature Reserve
This unique landscape offers a blend of shingle beaches, freshwater lakes, and rare vegetations. It’s a fascinating place for a walk, with plenty of sights and smells to keep dogs intrigued.
Haysden Country Park
Located in Tonbridge, this park boasts two lakes, Barden Lake and Haysden Water. The flat paths around the lakes are perfect for a relaxed walk, and the open spaces are great for dogs to stretch their legs.
Scotney Castle Landscape Garden
A picturesque, romantic garden surrounding the ruins of a medieval moated manor house, Scotney Castle offers a delightful experience for both humans and dogs. The estate has a variety of walking paths that meander through woodlands, across streams, and around the castle itself. It’s a visual treat throughout the year, with each season bringing its own charm.
Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest
Located near Goudhurst, Bedgebury is home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of conifers. The forest trails are perfect for dog walks, offering a mix of terrains and the chance to explore a unique botanical collection. There’s also a beautiful lake that adds to the serene ambiance of the place.
Deal and Walmer Beaches
These pebble beaches are ideal for a seaside stroll. While certain sections of the beach have seasonal dog restrictions, there are ample stretches where dogs can enjoy the sea breeze and even take a dip in the waters.
Cobham Wood and Mausoleum
Managed by the National Trust, this ancient woodland near Gravesend is a peaceful retreat. The well-marked trails take you through majestic oaks and past the Darnley Mausoleum, an architectural gem. Dogs are sure to enjoy the myriad of scents and sounds of this woodland haven.
Lullingstone Country Park
Situated in the Darent Valley, Lullingstone Country Park offers a mix of ancient woodlands, grasslands, and river walks. The views of Lullingstone Castle from the park add a touch of historical charm to your walks. The park also has a designated area where dogs can play off-leash.
Romney Marsh
Known as the “Fifth Continent” due to its unique landscape, Romney Marsh offers vast open spaces, crisscrossed by a network of ditches and rivers. The flat terrains make it an easy walk, and the expansive skies provide a dramatic backdrop, especially during sunsets.
Shorne Woods Country Park
Located near Gravesend, this park offers over 288 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. With a variety of trails to choose from, it’s a popular spot for dog walkers. The park also features a sensory garden, a fishing lake, and a café where you can relax after your walk.
Hever Castle Gardens and Lake Walk
Situated near Edenbridge, Hever Castle is renowned for its stunning gardens and the vast lake. While dogs aren’t allowed inside the castle or the immediate gardens, there’s a splendid lake walk where dogs on leads are welcome. The route offers picturesque views of the castle, and the serene ambiance of the lake makes it a delightful spot for a leisurely stroll.
Eynsford Riverside Walk
Eynsford, with its charming village setting and the Darent River flowing through, offers a delightful riverside walk. The path is relatively flat, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. As you wander, you’ll pass historic landmarks, including Eynsford Castle and the picturesque ford, where dogs can splash about.
Brockhill Country Park
Located near Hythe, Brockhill Country Park was once part of a large estate, with remnants of its past still visible in the form of a manor house and a village green. The park is divided into three areas: open grassland, a tranquil lake, and semi-natural woodland. It’s a haven for dog walkers, offering varied terrains and beautiful views.
Sissinghurst Castle Garden Walks
While the world-famous gardens of Sissinghurst Castle are off-limits to dogs, the estate offers several dog-friendly walking routes. These paths meander through the surrounding woodland and farmland, offering glimpses of the castle tower and the beautiful Kentish countryside.
Monkton Nature Reserve
This reserve near Ramsgate is a reclaimed chalk quarry and offers a unique landscape for walkers. With a mix of woodland, grassland, and freshwater habitats, it’s a biodiverse spot that’s great for dogs to explore. There are also several viewing points where you can pause and soak in the views.
Dover’s Western Heights
Overlooking the town of Dover, the Western Heights are a series of fortifications built in the 19th century. Today, the area offers a network of footpaths with panoramic views of Dover and the English Channel. The open grasslands and the remnants of military architecture add to the charm of the walk.
The North Downs Way
This long-distance footpath stretches over 150 miles, with a significant portion passing through Kent. Offering spectacular views, ancient woodlands, and historic sites, it’s a trail that can be tackled in sections, making it perfect for dog walkers looking for a varied experience.
Westgate Gardens, Canterbury
Westgate Gardens is not just a treat for history buffs but also a delight for dog walkers. Located along the River Stour, these historic gardens offer a peaceful setting right in the heart of Canterbury. The well-maintained paths, combined with the scenic beauty of the river and the ancient Westgate Towers, make it a favourite spot for a relaxed walk.
Finchcocks Forest, Goudhurst
Nestled in the Weald of Kent, Finchcocks Forest is a serene woodland area perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. The dense canopy, interspersed with open clearings and the sounds of local wildlife, offers a rejuvenating experience. The trails here are well-marked, ensuring a hassle-free walk for you and your dog.
Grove Ferry Picnic Site
Situated near Canterbury, the Grove Ferry Picnic Site is an ideal spot for a family day out. With the River Stour running alongside, it offers beautiful riverside walks. The vast open spaces are perfect for picnics, and dogs will love the chance to play and explore the surroundings.
Minnis Bay, Birchington
For those who love coastal walks, Minnis Bay is a must-visit. This sandy bay offers a vast expanse for dogs to run and play. The views of the sea, especially during sunset, are truly mesmerising. There’s also a promenade for those who prefer a more structured walk.
King’s Wood, Challock
Spanning over 1,500 acres, King’s Wood is one of Kent’s largest woodlands. Managed by the Forestry Commission, it boasts a mix of coniferous and broadleaf trees. The well-defined paths, combined with the tranquil ambiance of the woods, make it a popular choice for dog walkers.
Capstone Farm Country Park, Gillingham
This country park offers over 100 hectares of woodland, meadows, and freshwater habitats. With a variety of trails to choose from, it caters to walkers of all levels. The park also features a fishing lake, a café, and several viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the Medway towns and the Thames Estuary.
Alternatively, if you want to hire a field for you and your dog(s), check out our guide to dog fields to hire in Kent here.