British Food and Travel

The gentle rolling hills of the North Downs

The South Downs, now a National Park, attracts many with its chalk landscapes and gentle rolling hills. But there is another area some 30 miles to the north that is no less a draw for ramblers and nature lovers.

The North Downs stretch from Farnham, Surrey to Dover’s white cliffs in Kent. Along its length winds the North Downs Way, tracing 158 miles of grazing pastures and woodland. The route is also known as the Pilgrim’s Way, the historical route from Winchester to Canterbury, long taken by pilgrims on their way to visit the shrine of Thomas Becket.

The North Downs overlaps with two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Shown here are images from one of these, the Kent Downs. We began our hike near Hollingbourne. From the village, we made our way along the chalky trails through woods scattered with bluebells, across rolling pasture land, and beyond. Although we did not spy any of the orchid varieties known to bloom in the region, we did spot the aforementioned bluebells and fields of yellow gorse, as well as plentiful evidence of “England’s green and pleasant land”.

Spring blossoms along the North Downs Way

Of course, as any rambler knows, a good country walk should finish at a village pub. This day was no different. Our loop brought us back to Hollingbourne and a late afternoon Sunday roast at The Dirty Habit. 

Fortunately much remains of this stunning area, guaranteeing many a future hike.

Those interested in learning more about the North Downs Way, including walk routes and stops along the way, can find information at the National Trails website.