Picturesque Cobham and North Kentish Adventure

Starting from Sole Street, we head into the beautiful North Kent countryside, exploring a varied mix of chalk grassland, ancient woodland, open countryside and historic parkland.

Our route first takes us through Apple Orchard in Kent Downs then the wide-open landscape of Jeskyns Community Woodland, a former farmland area that has been transformed into a thriving green space. Along the way, we pass the intriguing Portal Keepers sculptures before continuing towards the ancient woodland of Ashenbank Wood, where a circuit through the trees reveals a wonderful collection of veteran oaks and other mature woodland.

From Ashenbank, we make our way towards the picturesque village of Cobham, one of the highlights of the walk. This charming conservation village is steeped in history, with its beautiful St Mary Magdalene Church, historic Cobham College and timber-framed Leather Bottle pub, famously associated with Charles Dickens and The Pickwick Papers. There are several traditional pubs along the village street, making Cobham a great place to stop for lunch and take a well-earned break.

After lunch, we continue through the peaceful parkland of Cobham Park, where we come across the striking Darnley Mausoleum — an unusual pyramid-topped monument surrounded by woodland and countryside.

The route then leads us into Ranscombe Farm Nature Reserve, an important landscape renowned for its rich wildflower habitats and chalk grassland. From here, we continue across the countryside, passing alongside a large new vineyard before reaching Camer Park, a smaller country park that provides another pleasant stretch of green space.

Finally, we make our way back towards Sole Street, completing a varied countryside walk that combines woodland, open landscapes, historic villages and some fascinating sights along the way.

A great day out for anyone looking to explore a less-travelled corner of Kent, with plenty of countryside, history, wildlife and scenic walking along the route.

🌟Highlights:

• Visit the picturesque village of Cobham
• Apple Orchard in Kent Downs
• Pass the impressive Darnley Mausoleum and Cobham Park
• Walk sections of the famous North Downs Way and Wealdway
• Wander through peaceful Henley Woods and Camer Park
• Walk alongside vineyards and through rolling chalk countryside

🎒What to Bring

• Sturdy hiking boots- Water & packed lunch/snacks- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, windbreaker)- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)- Optional: camera, walking poles

Location: London Victoria Rail Station next to main ticket office
Depart: Meet us 09:15 am, we leave 09:30 am for 09:42 am train
Return: 08;30 pm Back in London (commitment required until then).

✅ Return train tickets from London
✅ Guided hike led by an experienced Outdoorly hike leader
✅ Pre-Planned Route & Navigation: Enjoy the trails stress-free. We have mapped out the entire route, including rest stops and points of interest.

• Food and drinks,
• Personal insurance, and
• Any personal expenses.