North Downs Way National Trail

Description

The North Downs Way National Trail is a 153 mile (246 km) long walking and cycling route stretching from Farnham in Surrey to Dover in Kent. It passes through two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a mix of history, countryside and scenic landscapes. The trail is suitable for family days out, group hikes and cycling challenges.

Visitors can explore historic routes including the Pilgrims’ Way and follow paths connected to Thomas Becket and the Via Francigena. Along the trail, attractions include Neolithic sites, Roman and Napoleonic forts, WWII fortifications, castles, cathedrals and historic towns such as Canterbury, Folkestone and Dover. The route also features diverse landscapes like chalk grasslands, ancient woodlands, bluebell forests and the White Cliffs, along with opportunities for walking, cycling and exploring villages, vineyards and countryside pubs.

The trail is open 24 hours and is free to access.

Overall, the North Downs Way National Trail offers a rich combination of history, nature and outdoor adventure. With its long-distance route, scenic views and cultural landmarks, it provides a rewarding experience for walkers and cyclists. It is an ideal way to explore the countryside while following one of England’s most historic paths.

Features

  • Free
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

  • Trace ancient routes on a modern-day pilgrimage through Surrey to the Kent Coast at Dover, along one of England's most accessible trails. 
  • Cutting across the South East of England, the North Downs Way National Trail offers walkers 153 miles (246 km) of spectacular scenery, picturesque villages and glorious countryside, easily accessible from London.
  • Running from Farnham in Surrey to Canterbury and the White Cliffs of Dover in Kent, the Trail passes through two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty: the Surrey Hills and the Kent Downs.
  • The trail also weaves along the famous Pilgrims’ Way from Winchester to Canterbury, so you can walk in the footsteps of 1000s of pilgrims from around the world.
  • You’ll discover history every step of the way: there are eight castles, three cathedrals, three archbishops’ palaces and numerous stately homes and gardens close to the Trail.
  • After a day of exploring, you can sample English ales flavoured with Kentish hops at traditional English country pubs and inns, or try award-winning wines from one of the many English vineyards that dot the countryside.

What to see

  • Start: Farnham, Surrey
  • End: Dover, Kent
  • Length: 153 miles (246 km)

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Open 24 hours

Address: Darvills Ln, Farnham, UK

Post Code: GU9 8AN

Council: Waverley

County: Surrey

5

0 Reviews

Rating breakdown

5
80% Complete (danger)
0
4
80% Complete (danger)
0
3
80% Complete (danger)
0
2
80% Complete (danger)
0
1
80% Complete (danger)
0

Get the best blog stories into your inbox!