HIKE SUMMARY
With a train journey of around half an hour from London, this relatively leisurely, circular walk set in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty feels like it’s a world away from the city. Take in stunning views across the Kent Weald, immerse yourself in history at two excellent National Trust properties, and enjoy the array of wildlife on offer, from the deer herd in Knole Park to bluebells and lavender fields in the Spring. Towards the end of the walk, take a load off and quench your thirst at The Bucks Head pub in Godden Green.
Curator: Alex Thomas
Shaun Marlor (verified owner) –
My wife and I did this walk at the end of August 2023, on our anniversary weekend.
We travelled by train to Sevenoaks and started the walk from there using the notes in the pack to guide us to Knole Park.
We took plenty of photographs of the deer in Knole Park, the exterior of the grounds and main house (we didn’t go inside as had been previously), & Ightham Mote (again had visited with family previously), but we did utilize the cafe for a tea & cake stop.
The view is great from One Tree Hill, and a lovely respite from the beautiful (but hot) sunshine, we even used it for our picnic lunch stop.
Unfortunately it was the wrong time of year for the lavender field to be in bloom, but that didn’t dampen our spirits.
We pressed on, and enjoyed a liquid refreshment at the Bucks Head, which has a great garden in the rear.
What an excellent day out we had, the route is well drawn, with very good information, and some really interesting notes at the indication points. Will definitely look at purchasing some other routes.