Kent Downs Hike - Oast Houses, Woodlands & rolling hills – 16.5km

Kent Downs, beginning at Borough Green and looping through peaceful woodland, rolling countryside and some of the area’s prettiest villages.

This 16 km route offers a wonderful mix of scenery: ancient woods, tucked-away hamlets, historic farms and quiet rural lanes. It’s a perfect day out for walkers who enjoy steady hills, good variety underfoot and a real sense of journey across the landscape.

Start/Finish: Borough Green & Wrotham Station
Distance: 16.19 km
Time: Approx. 5 hrs 45 mins including breaks
Total Ascent: 330 m
Grade: 2.5 – Moderate–Challenging
Meet Time: 9:00 am
Start Time: 9.15 am
End Time: ~3.00 pm (Approx)

We begin by heading south from Borough Green into the quiet lanes and meadows around Claygate Cross, gradually climbing through woodland to reach wide views over the Kent countryside.

The route then turns east towards Crouch, a small rural hamlet surrounded by orchards and farmland. From here we continue on field paths and bridleways, making our way to the charming village of Basted with its millpond and peaceful valley setting.

The trail undulates through the Wealden landscape, offering interest and variety without being overly steep. The final section takes us along woodland edges and farm tracks back towards Borough Green, finishing right at the station for easy onward travel.

Highlights:
- Varied Kent Downs Scenery – Woods, meadows, orchards and rolling countryside.
- Pretty Wealden Villages – Platt, Claygate cross and Basted each with their own character.
- Historic Farmland – Traditional farms, old field boundaries and rural views.
- Gentle but Rewarding Hills – Enough ascent for interest without being strenuous. - Convenient Start/Finish – Step straight off the train and onto the trail.

What to Wear and Bring:
- Our walks go ahead in all weather, so dress appropriately. Always carry a waterproof jacket.
- Check the forecast and bring sun cream, a hat, or sunglasses for warm days, and waterproofs, a warm hat, and gloves for cold or wet days.
- Wear trousers or leggings to reduce the risk of tick bites and nettle stings. Avoid denim or cotton.
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential. Open-toe shoes are unsuitable.
- Bring at least 1.5 litres of water, lunch, and snacks, as there may be no opportunities to buy food or drinks along the route.
- Public toilets may not be available on the route.

Sign-Up Form:
If you haven’t completed a form this year or your circumstances have changed, please fill out the sign up form before attending. Participation is not allowed without a completed form, as this ensures we understand your needs and can maintain group safety. (link can be found in Ts&Cs section of the website - or cut and paste below into your browser)
Form link: https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058

Preparation and Fitness:
You are responsible for your own health and safety. Ensure you can hike continuously for the duration specified. Dress appropriately, please bring the required gear and carry any personal medications. Participants without proper equipment may be unable to join the walk.

Our Guides:
Our experienced, qualified leaders are skilled in navigation, first aid, and outdoor leadership. Each route is carefully planned to match the advertised grade, ensuring a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience.

Additional Information:
Dogs are not permitted on our walks. Adventure Women UK is an all-female activity group, and participants must be over 18. Walk Grades: For details on walk difficulty levels, visit the Walk Grades Section at https://adventurewomen.co.uk. Cancellation & Credit Policy (Day Experiences)

All bookings are non-refundable.
• Over 4 weeks before the event: You may transfer or receive credit towards another event.
• 4–1 weeks before the event: No refund, but a transfer/credit may be offered only if your space is filled.
• Less than 1 week before the event: No refund or transfer available. All transfers/credits are discretionary and subject to availability.

Important Note: By RSVPing “Yes” to any event, you agree to the group’s terms and conditions. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs.

Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including slips, trips, falls, drowning, exposure to extreme weather, equipment failure, and medical emergencies, which can result in serious injury or death. By participating, you voluntarily assume all such risks. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs.

About Us:
Adventure Women UK is an outdoor pursuits club that empowers women to explore, grow, and connect through shared adventures. Our supportive community welcomes women from all backgrounds, offering experiences that inspire, uplift, and redefine what it means to be an adventure woman. Questions? Please visit our FAQ page (under the “more” section) OR drop us a message if you have any questions.