Rising up to the north from the village of Kemsing, Kemsing Down has two distinct sections – an area of secondary woodland and scrub ripe for exploration, and a large area of chalk grassland which boasts excellent views south towards Sevenoaks.
Being set on a hillside some of the paths are steep and uneven, and there are steps in places. However, you will be rewarded with some excellent panoramic views – on a clear day you will be able to see as far as Detling to the east, and Leith Hill in Surrey to the west.
The chalk downland benefits from a wide variety of wildflowers, making the slopes especially beautiful in early summer – common rock-rose, fairy flax cowslip and several species of orchid can be found here.
On the other side of the ancient cart track (now a public footpath), the western side of the site is a mix of ancient woodland and chalk downland, where kestrels and green woodpeckers are often seen.
The easiest access to Kemsing Down is from Pilgrim’s Way at the junction with Childsbridge Lane, where there is informal parking for 2 to 3 cars. The Kemsing Circular Walk is 6.5 miles (10.4km) challenging walk that ascends and descends the North Downs. It includes a stretch of the North Downs Way and offers magnificent views across the Weald of Kent.
Easy access information
This park and open space has at least one accessible route but otherwise is considered to be less suitable for visitors with pushchairs and/or wheelchairs.
