Self-Guided Walking Programme

Walking

Maidstone History Walk The borough of Maidstone, which began life as a Saxon village, is steeped in history. You can uncover many of the historic attractions and landmarks by following the historic walking tour.

These self-guided walk will take you to see great historical sites including Maidstone Museum, Brenchley Gardens, the Town Hall, the Archbishops Palace and St Faith's Church plus many more. Along your journey you will learn about the historic significance of each landmark while taking in the rich surroundings. You can download the Historic Walking Tour Guide from www.visitmaidstone.com

SELF-GUIDED ADVENTURES

Visitor Information Centre St Faith's Street, Maidstone, ME14 1LH info@visitmaidstone.com 01622 602169

Country Parks and Estates Maidstone also has lots of stunning country parks on offer, perfect for a leisurely stroll with the family or a brisk walk with the dog. Bluebell Hill Picnic Site offers panoramic views over the Medway Valley with access to the North Downs Way. In the spring months, Hucking Estate, property of the Woodland Trust, is a popular choice. Located on the North Downs, between Thurnham and Hollingbourne, the bluebells and orchids that bloom throughout April and May are in the Woodland Trust's top 10 bluebell walks across the country.

Another attractive offering near West Malling is Teston Country Park, comprised of three meadows nestled beside the River Medway, it is the ideal location to watch boats cruising downstream, or to fish in the rich waters. A great place to take your camera, if you're lucky you might spot a herd of highland cow that reside in the meadows. Finally, The White Horse Wood Country Park which sprawls across the north of Maidstone, exhibits panoramic views, historic remains and is part of The Ash Project, featuring two monolithic sculptural works until September 2020.

Maidstone River Park

North Downs National Trail

An iconic feature of Maidstone resides with it's relationship with the River Medway which runs through the heart of the town. Following the river creates some fantastic walks with spectacular countryside and urban views.

One of the most recognisable walking routes in Kent is the North Downs Way Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which cuts through villages in Hollingbourne and Lenham. The 153 mile route follows the footsteps of pilgrims on a journey from Farnham to Canterbury and the White Cliffs of Dover. Of course, you don't have to do the entire length of the North Downs Way.

One walk of interest is along the path of the Maidstone River Park, a 12km walk along the River Medway from Teston Country Park

through Maidstone's Town Centre to Allington. Here you can visit Kent Life, stop for lunch at The Malta Inn or take the Kentish Lady riverboat back upstream. If you're feeling adventurous you can continue all the way Yalding, a charming parish village.

Along the way, enjoy the magnificent wildlife this habitat has to offer and treat yourself to local food of a unique offering at the Old Boat Cafe or Little Old Toll House.

Why not try the Detling to Lenham Walk, 9.3 miles tracing the ridge and the Pilgrims Way of the lower down. Featuring Thurnham Castle, a Norman stronghold within White Horse Country Park with stunning areas of rolling grassland and woodland, as well as the Pilgrim's Rest sculpture, a wooden Brother Percival taking his time will remind you of the historical significance of the Pilgrim's Way. A complete map featuring the entire route, plus shorter walks can be purchased from Maidstone's Visitor Information Centre or from www.nationaltrail.co.uk/northdownsway