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Explore Kent

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Explore Kent

Go outside and discover the great outdoors! Best way to do it? Explore Kent! www.explorekent.org

For information on fantastic ideas for days out, active events and outdoor pursuits in Kent, like us!

19/06/2026

The Rochester Trail is a circular walk through one of Kent’s most historic towns, linking key landmarks with riverside views along the Medway. It offers a simple way to explore Rochester’s character while taking in its best-known sights.

Starting in the town centre, the route passes Rochester Castle and Cathedral before leading through streets connected to Charles Dickens, whose writing was shaped by the area. Along the way, you’ll spot familiar features that reflect the town’s literary and historic roots.

The trail then opens out to quieter stretches by the river, giving a contrast to the busier high street and a chance to enjoy a more relaxed pace.

Discover the Rochester Trail here 📍 https://explorekent.org/activities/the-rochester-trail/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=rochester_trail

18/06/2026

Want to explore a coastal nature reserve? This circular walk at Oare Marshes takes you through open marshland, creeks and waterside paths, with wide views across the Swale and plenty of birdlife along the route.

Starting from roadside parking in Oare, the route quickly joins flat, easy-to-follow paths across the reserve. The landscape is open throughout, with long stretches alongside water and clear sightlines across the marshes.

Along the way, you’ll pass through multiple gates, cross narrow footbridges, and navigate a few short set of steps (around 4–5). The route has no stiles.

The route loops back into Oare, where you’ll find pubs including The Castle and The Three Mariners, as well as The Café by the Creek (typically open Wed–Sun) for refreshments.

If you’re interested in what birds you might see on the reserve at this time of year, take a look at Bird Wise North Kent for a quick guide: https://northkent.birdwise.org.uk/meet-the-birds/

Plan your walk and explore the route here 📍
https://explorekent.org/activities/oare-marshes-circular/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ek_oare_marshes

12/06/2026

Looking for a walking route to try this weekend? Whitstable to Herne Bay is a scenic 4.5-mile stretch of the King Charles III England Coast Path, following the Kent shoreline between two charming seaside towns. Starting in Whitstable, the route traces the waterfront towards Herne Bay, offering uninterrupted sea views and a relaxed way to experience the Kent coast.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy wide promenades, shingle beaches and iconic coastal scenery, with plenty of opportunities to stop for refreshments or take in the views. The route is mostly flat and accessible, making it suitable for a range of abilities, with some lovely open sections where you’ll feel the fresh coastal breeze.

This walk has been tested by wild_with_wheels , who advocate for equal access to green and blue spaces to improve physical health and mental wellbeing through connecting with nature and Kent’s diverse landscape.

Discover the route here 👇
https://explorekent.org/activities/whitstable-hernebay-linear/?utm_source=socialmedia&utm_medium=facebook&utm_term=June

11/06/2026

Discover the power of Nature for Wellbeing in Kent! We’re excited to spotlight the incredible Health & Nature Fund projects now happening across Kent, bringing people together through the healing power of our green and blue spaces.

Backed by Kent County Council's Public Health, these projects are supporting free, nature-based programmes designed to boost mental wellbeing, build confidence, and reduce isolation, especially in communities that need it most.

From guided coastal walks and outdoor mindfulness to creative nature sessions and wildlife learning, these projects offer a variety of ways to connect with nature. There are also tailored programmes designed to support people with their mental health and wellbeing.

These inspiring initiatives show how connecting with nature can make a real difference to people’s lives. A huge well done to the organisations delivering this work. Together, they’re helping Kent residents feel healthier, happier, and more connected.

Find out more about the projects and how to get involved:
https://explorekent.org/health-and-nature-fund-projects/?utm_source=socialmedia&utm_medium=facebook&utm_term=June

10/06/2026

It’s , and the ExploreKent Junior Cycling Challenge is a way to recognise and celebrate children’s cycling achievements. The challenge is open to all children and focuses on completing a single bike ride that meets one of three distance levels:
🥉Bronze at 5km
🥈Silver at 8km
🥇Gold at 10km.

Journeys can include family days out, leisure cycling or travelling by bike to a destination, as long as the distance is completed in one day.

If a child has additional needs or a disability, the challenge can be adapted and parents or carers can share details of the ride completed so the appropriate certificate can be issued.

Find out more and get involved 👇
https://explorekent.org/explore-kent-junior-cycling-challenge/?utm_source=socialmedia&utm_medium=facebook&utm_term=bikeweek&utm_content=KCC

09/06/2026

To celebrate 🚴‍♂️, the UK’s biggest celebration of cycling, we’ll be sharing a week of bike-inspired content!

From the Junior Cycle Challenge to routes to explore, plus handy tips and resources, there’s something for everyone. So why not dust off your bike this June, enjoy the great outdoors, and boost your health and wellbeing at the same time?

Keep an eye on KCC and Explore Kent channels for updates throughout the week 👀

Cycling UK South East England

06/06/2026

Horton Kirby Miles and Meadows route is a peaceful circular countryside walk that explores the gentle landscapes of the Darent Valley. Starting in the village of Horton Kirby, the route leads through open meadows, quiet paths and stretches of riverside scenery, offering a calm and restorative way to enjoy Kent’s rural charm.

Along the way, you’ll experience wide green spaces, farmland views and the changing character of the River Darent. The route includes a mix of grassy paths and rural tracks, with gates and uneven surfaces in places. After wet weather, sections can become muddy, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Discover the route here 👇
https://explorekent.org/activities/horton-kirby-walk-miles-and-meadows/?utm_source=socialmedia&utm_medium=facebook&utm_term=june

04/06/2026

Looking for a walk to fit around the unpredictable weather? With this week’s weather being a bit hit and miss, woodland walks are a great option.

Kent has plenty to choose from, including Bedgebury Forest and Kings Wood. Just remember to wear suitable footwear and clothing, especially after this wet weather!

Our website has lots of woodland walk ideas to help you get outside and explore.

Ready to find your next walk?
Head to our webpage for inspiration 👇
https://explorekent.org/woodland-walks-in-kent/?utm_source=socialmedia&utm_medium=facebook&utm_term=june

03/06/2026

Are you part of a cycling group in Kent, or do you ride with a local club or community?

To mark World Bicycle Day, we’re updating our information on cycling groups across Kent to better reflect what’s happening locally and the variety of groups people can get involved with🚲

💬 If you ride with a local cycling group, or know one we’ve missed, tag or mention them in the comments.

To find cycling routes, guides and other useful resources, visit our Active Travel page👇
https://explorekent.org/active-travel/?utm_source=socialmedia&utm_medium=facebook&utm_term=june

30/05/2026

Stile Free Trails across Kent offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of gates or steps, making walking easier and more accessible for everyone 👣
From peaceful countryside paths to well-surfaced routes through parks and green spaces, these trails are designed with accessibility in mind. They are ideal for pushchairs, wheelchairs and little legs, while still showcasing some of Kent’s best scenery along the way.

As National Walking Month comes to a close, it is the perfect time to keep those healthy habits going and discover new places to walk with confidence and ease 💚

Find a route to try near you 👇
https://explorekent.org/stile-free-trails/?utm_source=socialmedia&utm_medium=nationalwalkingmonth&utm_campaign=ecpvideos&utm_term=week4

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