4.5
(716)
3,723
hikers
13
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Charing offer access to the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, characterized by rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and the scenic Stour River valley. The region provides diverse terrain for outdoor activities, including sections of the North Downs Way and the Stour Valley Walk. Hikers can explore a landscape featuring historic sites and natural beauty spots.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.0
(4)
20
hikers
9.70km
02:38
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
13
hikers
22.1km
05:55
260m
260m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5
hikers
13.1km
03:30
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
4
hikers
8.12km
02:12
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
3
hikers
11.6km
03:08
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Charing
The community of Lenham commemorates the dead of the Second World War with a horizontal stone cross.
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A relatively modern chalk symbol sculpted in the hillside
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The square used to hold an agricultural market back in the late 19th century and is still used to hold the occasional market.
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St Mary's a parish church in Lenham, Kent, begun in the 12th century with additions in the next three centuries.
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The attentive hiker or pilgrim has repeatedly encountered a wide variety of types of crosses on his way: made of stone (often granite) or wood, with or without the body of the crucified Christ, artistically decorated or deliberately kept simple, towering high and thus dominating the surroundings from afar or rather smaller... This hiking highlight, however, is sure to take a top spot in the ranking of the most unusual crosses. It does not tower up, but is quite the opposite, cut into the ground so that the light background of this lying monument stands out clearly from the surrounding green of the lawn. The basic idea of such a design - known in technical jargon as geoglyps - is similar to the "Nazca Lines" in South America, which are thousands of years older; or, to give a much closer example, the "White Horse" on Uffington Hill (see https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/283565 ). The sad reason for its construction is to commemorate the victims of the First World War.
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There are 10 curated hiking routes starting directly from bus stations around Charing, offering convenient access to the Kent Downs AONB. These routes range from easy to moderate difficulty.
Yes, 4 of the 10 routes available are classified as easy, making them suitable for a relaxed outing. The remaining 6 routes are moderate, offering a bit more challenge.
The hikes from Charing's bus stations traverse the diverse landscapes of the Kent Downs AONB. You'll encounter rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and sections of the scenic Stour River valley. Many routes offer expansive views over the downs.
Yes, many of the routes are circular, bringing you back to your starting point. For example, the Charing Windmill loop from Charing is a moderate 8.1 km circular trail that takes you past the historic windmill.
Several routes offer access to notable landmarks and viewpoints. You can visit the historic Lenham Cross, explore the area around Leeds Castle, or enjoy views from the Millennium Stone and Wye Crown viewpoint. The Charing Windmill – View Over Charing Hill loop from Charing specifically highlights a great viewpoint.
With 4 easy routes and 6 moderate routes, many of the trails are suitable for families, depending on the children's age and experience. The varied terrain and points of interest like the Charing Windmill can make for an engaging family adventure.
Generally, the public footpaths and trails in the Kent Downs are dog-friendly. However, please be mindful of livestock in fields and keep dogs on a lead where necessary. Always follow the Countryside Code and ensure your dog is under control.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 600 ratings. Hikers often praise the accessibility from public transport, the stunning views from the downs, and the peaceful ancient woodlands.
Yes, some routes will bring you close to water features. For instance, you can find Eastwell Lake and Eastwell Manor Lake in the vicinity, and the Stour River valley itself offers picturesque riverside sections.
Several routes provide excellent views of the Charing Windmill. The Charing Windmill loop from Charing and The Bowl Inn – Charing Windmill loop from Charing are both great options to incorporate this landmark into your hike.
While all routes are classified as easy or moderate, some offer a longer distance and more elevation gain. The Lenham Cross – Lenham Village Square loop from Charing is a moderate 13 km route with significant elevation, providing a good workout and expansive views.


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