Guided Rail Ramble Charing to Hollingbourne | The Heart of Kent Walking Festival 2026
- 21 Mar 2026
- 9:45am - 3:30pm
- Charing
Starting at Charing Railway Station, this guided walk will take us through the historic and picturesque village of Charing, located at the foot of the Kent Downs Way National Trail. We will stop to consider some of the features and buildings that date from the 14th century.
The walk will head onto the Kent Downs Way National Trail, probably the steepest climb, then follow the gentle rolling route towards Hollingbourne. There are many points of interest along the way, we will hear about the ecology of the Kent Downs Way National Trail, some of the farming techniques we may see on route, we’ll learn about historic and current pilgrims and buildings and the varied fauna and flora of the trail.
With breaks to take in the views and some refreshment, the trail will then lead to the Lenham Cross, a war memorial carved into the chalk on the North Downs, before heading along the Downs above Harrietsham and meeting ‘Percy the Pilgrim’ for the perfect photo opportunity! It’s then a quick romp along the last stretch to the picturesque village of Hollingbourne where we’ll end our walk at Hollingbourne railway station, or you could take the opportunity to explore the pretty village and enjoy some refreshment with your guides at a local pub before jumping back on the train home or 2 stops back to Charing station.
Walk Details
Walk Leader: Therese Hammond – Kent Community Rail Partnership
Distance: Approx. 10 miles
Duration: Approx. 5.5 hours
Grade: Grade 4 Moderate
Walk Type: Linear
Accessibility Grade: A1
Age: 12+ (Under 18s must have an accompanying adult)
You will need: Please bring packed lunch, snacks, water and any personal medication. Please also wear suitable clothing and footwear
Toilet Facilities: None on route
Rest Stops: Yes
Are there stiles on route? No
Dogs are welcome on leads
What to do nearby?
Visit Leeds Castle
Experience Go Ape Forest Adventure at Leeds Castle
Head into town and visit Maidstone Museum
Take a trip to Lockmeadow and grab some street food or watch a film at Odeon Luxe
Grab a pub lunch or dinner at The Potting Shed
Where to stay?
Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel
Leeds Castle Stable Courtyard Bed & Breakfast and Maiden’s Tower Bed & Breakfast