North Downs Way
From Farnham in Surrey to the White Cliffs of Dover, the North Downs Way is 153-miles (246km) long and runs through the Kent Downs National Landscape. This stretch, beginning at Hollingbourne and weaving through Harrietsham, Lenham and Charing, offers a picturesque day-out with sweeping views from the chalk ridgeline. See Lenham Cross, a memorial cut into the hillside, or visit the family-run vineyards of Wildshark and Westwell, situated at the base of the Kent Downs.
- Food & drink available
- Charing
Itinerary details
Here's a taste of your next experience.
North Downs Way
From Farnham in Surrey to the White Cliffs of Dover, the North Downs Way is 153-miles (246km) long and runs through the Kent Downs National Landscape. This stretch, beginning at Hollingbourne and weaving through Harrietsham, Lenham and Charing, offers a picturesque day-out with sweeping views from the chalk ridgeline. See Lenham Cross, a memorial cut into the hillside, or visit the family-run vineyards of Wildshark and Westwell, situated at the base of the Kent Downs.
North Downs Way Walking & Cycling Routes
North Downs Way: Wander (or cycle) eastwards along a section of the North Downs Way, starting at Hollingbourne train station (North Downs Way 8: Detling to Lenham section) and going past the villages of Harrietsham and Lenham to reach Charing (North Downs Way 9: Lenham to Wye section) where you can hop back on the train to head home.
For individual village circular walks:
Hollingbourne East: Head through Eythorne Street and then up onto the downs on this 8-mile (12.87km) circular trail.
Hollingbourne West: Head west out of Hollingbourne, past the ancient manor of Ripple and back along the famous Pilgrim’s Way, on this 6-mile (9.66km) circular trail.
Harrietsham: Head north of Harrietsham and up the slopes of the North Downs on this 5-mile (8.05km) circular trail.
North Downs Way 8: Detling to LenhamNorth Downs Way 9: Lenham to WyeHollingbourne East Lost Landscapes WalkHollingbourne West Lost Landscapes WalkHarrietsham Walk
Signal Box Cafe
Located in a renovated ticket office, treat yourself to a warm drink and something sweet from the Signal Box community cafe. You can even enjoy a full English breakfast or freshly-made lunch.
Accessibility: Accessible for wheelchair users with an accessible toilet | Dogs: Dogs are welcome | Bicycles: The Signal Box Cafe is bike-friendly and has plenty of bike storage outside
Signal Box Cafe
Leeds Castle
From exploring the castle, gardens and maze to seeing birds of prey displays or playing a game of adventure golf, Leeds Castle offers many different attractions for all ages and is perfect for a fun-filled family day out.
You can also hop on a Segway tour of the grounds, or take to the treetops with Go Ape that includes a zip wire over the valley!
Accessibility: The castle and grounds are mostly accessible for wheelchair users – a mobility bus runs regularly throughout the day | Dogs: Only assistance dogs are allowed in the castle and grounds
Leeds Castle
Wildshark Vineyard
Take a tour of the eco-friendly estate, complete with a wine tasting, before enjoying one of the many food experiences on offer. You can opt for a delicious afternoon tea, seasonal BBQ, artisan pizza or fresh picnic made with local produce.
Accessibility: Tours are not accessible for wheelchair users due to the steep incline of the vineyard | Dogs: Dogs allowed on leads in the vineyard but are not allowed on tours
Wildshark Vineyard
Parkwood Trout Farm
For keen fishers, Parkwood Trout Farm offers a peaceful place to enjoy fishing. With a fish shop and seating around the lakes, visitors can unwind and catch trout from one of the two lakes on site.
Parkwood Trout Farm
Lenham Cross
Pass the Lenham Cross, a large chalk cross cut into the hillside and memorial for those who lost their lives fighting during the First and Second World Wars.
Lenham Cross
Process Gallery
Visit this small contemporary art gallery in the Kent countryside. Enjoy exhibitions, including one on x-ray art, from the owner Nick Veasey and other modern day artists.
Viewings must be booked in advance.
Dogs: Assistance dogs are welcome
Process Gallery
Cherry Downs Community Orchard & Picnic Site
Stop for a picnic at the Cherry Downs Community Orchard and enjoy the views of the Greensand Way, stretching beyond onto the Romney Marsh. In the orchard you’ll find 28 sour cherry trees as well as some sweet cherry, plum, apple and pear trees.
Cherry Downs Community Orchard & Picnic Site
Westwell Wines
Stroll through the vineyard on a guided tour and visit the winery, complete with a tasting of the vineyard’s still and sparkling English wines.
Accessibility: The winery and tasting room are accessible for wheelchair users but the vineyard has uneven ground | Dogs: Dogs allowed on a short lead except for in the winery
Westwell WinesTravel
Train – Hollingbourne, Harrietsham, Lenham and Charing train stations all sit along this rail trail route. There are interpretation boards with the walking trail and points of interest at all of the stations.
Bus – Stagecoach runs bus services between Maidstone and Ashford that stop at Hollingbourne, Harrietsham, Lenham and Charing (the 510 service).
Cycle parking – There are a few cycle parking stands at Hollingbourne, Harrietsham, Lenham and Charing train stations.
Remember you can take your bike on any Southeastern train unless the train arrives or departs London during peak hours – but you can take a fold up bike anytime.
Opening Times & Dates
Opening times of the various things to see and do mentioned in this itinerary vary throughout the year. Please check public transport times and individual attractions’ websites before you visit. Always check availability and book ahead for tours.