Cooling Castle Circular via High Halstow Nature Reserve

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# Explore the Dramatic Landscapes of the Hoo Peninsula

Step into the wide-open beauty of the Hoo Peninsula on this 13.6 km circular hike starting from High Halstow Nature Reserve. The route leads you through sweeping marshland, quiet farmland, and windswept tracks that feel far removed from modern life.
Along the way, you’ll encounter the atmospheric remains of Cooling Castle, a fortress steeped in history and forever linked with Dickens’ Great Expectations. With endless skies above, abundant birdlife, and little sign of urban sprawl, this walk offers the perfect escape into solitude — all just a short distance from home.

### Highlights

• Vast skies and estuary views across the North Kent Marshes
• The evocative ruins of Cooling Castle
• Rich wildlife and open paths through High Halstow Nature Reserve
• A rare sense of peace, space, and timelessness

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## Walk Details

📅 Date: Wednesday, 15 October 2025
🕙 Meet Time: 10:00 am (for a prompt 10:15 am start)
⏱ Duration: 3.5 – 4.5 hours (including a lunch break)
👣 Staff Member: Rachel Stockey

### 📍 Location

• Meeting Point: Old Nature Reserve Car Park, 55 Harrison Dr, High Halstow, Rochester ME3 8TF
• what3words: `///aibrush.stoppage.penned`
• Parking: Car park available – charges not included

### 🗺 Route

• Distance: ~13.6 km (8 miles)
• Type: Circular
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Terrain: Flat, with minimal elevation

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## Kit List

To make sure you’re comfortable and prepared, please bring:

• Suitable footwear (preferably walking boots or sturdy shoes – no flip-flops)
• A waterproof coat (and waterproof trousers if you have them)
• Drinking water and a packed lunch
• Any personal medication (please let us know confidentially about any medical conditions)
• Comfortable, weather-appropriate walking attire

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## Important Notes

• 🐾 Dogs: Friendly dogs are welcome, but they must remain on a lead at all times. Owners are fully responsible for their dogs throughout the walk.
• 📸 Photography: We take photos during our walks for promotional and training purposes. If you’d prefer not to be included, just let us know on the day.
• ❌ Cancellation Policy: Full payment is due if you cancel within 4 days of the activity. Cancellations made earlier than 4 days before will receive a credit note valid for 90 days, which can be used for a future walk.