65- Complete Road Trip Guide to Kent Downs National Landscape -NOT-PUBLISHED

Crundale Downs. Alex

Welcome to our guide for visiting the Kent Downs National Landscape in your campervan - a new name for our beloved and enchanting Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If you want an in-depth look at campervan travel and campsites in the Kent Downs National Landscape, you’re in the right place. Located just 15 kilometres southeast of London, the Kent Downs covers 320 square miles and is an enchanting landscape extending from the countryside to the coastline. We’ll cover a range of iconic attractions, such as the White Cliffs of Dover, ancient and lush woodlands, snaking rivers and picture-postcard countryside peppered with sleepy villages and lively towns.Look forward to huge areas of nature and that inimitable feeling of being in the middle of nowhere. Read on for walks, wildlife, and adventure. With so many varied landscapes, it’s no surprise there are heaps of great campsites in Kent waiting to be discovered.

• National Landscapes in the UK by Campervan and Campsites to Visit

If you’re searching for a guide through the National Scenic Areas and all designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, look at our comprehensive list of National Landscapes. Each location will include a list of local insights, suggested locations, and our top three campsites. We provide safety tips for the outdoorsy sorts, Kent campsite options and quick routes to get our readers out of the nearest cities and into the outdoors.

The Kent Downs National Landscape is one of two stunning National Landscapes in Kent, extending from the White Cliffs in Dover to the Surrey Border. This protected landscape holds undulating scenery at every turn, with lovely bluebell woods, a rugged chalk coastline, and rare chalk grasslands. The Kent Downs National Landscape is home to one of the highest points in the southeast, holds famous heritage costs like Dover and Folkestone White Cliffs. Hire a campervan and find all it offers to explore. Kent is perfect for a scenic road trip, and routes like the North Downs weave through gently rolling greenery, past half-timbered villages and distinctive landscapes – campervan hire in Kent is a great way to explore it all at your own pace, stopping wherever takes your fancy.

• Kent Downs National Landscape Walks
• Kent Downs National Landscape Things to Do
• Where to Camp at Kent Downs National Landscape
• How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape in a Campervan
• How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape From London
• How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape From Southampton
• How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape From Bristol
• How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape From Manchester
• How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape From Newcastle upon Tyne
• Your Campervan Guide to Visiting The Kent Downs National Landscape
• What is The Landscape Like in Kent?
• Can You Camp in Kent Downs?
• What is Kent Popular For?
• Where is The Prettiest Village in Kent?
• Why is Kent called The Garden of England?
• Campervan Road Trip Kent Downs National Landscape Cost
• Kent Scenic Drive
• Tent Camping at Kent Downs National Landscape
• Campsites at Kent Near Beach
• Glamping Kent
• Ending a Magical Tour of The Kent Downs National Landscape

Kent Downs National Landscape Walks

Walkers are spoiled for choice, with stunning walking routes crisscrossing the area. From walking the North Downs Way to picking apples at a lovely farm site in an orchard, or exploring one of many pretty villages, our walking and cycling enthusiasts can look forward to interesting days out, ideal for all abilities and tastes.

Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims through the protected landscapes of the Surrey Hills and the Kent Downs National Landscape on the 153 mile North Downs Way. The ancient pilgrimage route is perhaps the most famous, and once served as a route allowing pilgrims from beyond the Alps to reach Rome and then Santa Maria di Leuca, crossing southern Italy. The route begins inCanterbury and leads to Dover, where Pilgrims would have taken a boat to Calais in France. The route is well-maintained and signposted, offers access to a range of outdoor education for the young adventurers, and winds through unique landscapes with thriving wildlife. Places of interest along the North Downs Way include visitor attractions, including art trails like Coccolith, as well as food, drink and camping options. The Oswestry 2 to Sidcup, Oxford route and the Canterbury Motorbike Ride are ideal stops for readers who enjoy soaking in the scenery on foot or while pedalling along winding cycling routes.

Kent Downs National Landscape Things to Do

Knole Park. The Dragon Master1975

Perhaps the most popular attraction in the Kent Downs is the White Cliffs of Dover, an iconic landmark in the UK, with stunning views across the English Channel ideal for walking, birdwatching and exploring attractions like the Foreland Lighthouse. Sit at one of many handily placed benches and bask at the foot of the iconic hills, perhaps following a route to the top for more jaw-dropping vistas. Our readers can spend a day (or more) enjoying the long shingle beach that promises an array of water-based pursuits, like windsurfing, kayaking and fishing. Walk along the promenade for fresh fish and chips and deckchair hire, or enjoy a well-earned meal at one of the restaurants nearby. Folkestone Beach is another local favourite, ideal for family-friendly days out. The shingle and pebble beach sits under Lower Leas Coastal Park, which boasts a fantastic play area, spectacular views, and wildlife. The mermaid cafe near the beach is the top for sorting ice cream on those balmy summer days. Hythe Beach, enveloped by the countryside and bordered by the ocean, has natural beauty and a long stretch of sloping shingle beach perfect for setting down your towel and admiring the views. Several beautiful walks are nearby that wind through the countryside, and plenty of lovely bike routes, like the Royal Military Canal. For more sandy and shingle shorelines, check out Kingsdown Beach, Samphire Hoe Beach, St Margaret’s Bay, and St Mary’s Bay - the campsites in Canterbury are ideal for exploring the whole area.

Swap coastal views for inland adventures and woodlands by exploring a range of forests and open spaces on your road trip to the Kent Downs National Park. Ashenbank Wood is a 400-year-old ancient woodland with two waymarked trails ideal for exploring a stunning display of bluebells and wood anemones. Ashenbank Wood also falls under the Shorne and Ashenbank SSSI and the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with the entire forest subject to a Tree Preservation Order. The Blue Bell Hill Picnic Site, another Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), holds a range of terrain, including the rare chalk grassland, scrub and sprawling woodland. Set within the Kent Downs National Landscape, this area forms the chalk inclines between Wouldham and Detling and has a busy car park filled with visitors keen to enjoy the views across the Medway Valley. Guests can admire many rare plants and sit in a lovely picnic area ideal for taking a break with a well-stocked hamper. Brockhill Country Park brims with rich wildlife and a glittering lake with overhanging trees and ducks paddling in the gleaming water. Stroll through open grassland and meadows, spot wildlife like butterflies and green woodpeckers, and perhaps hop on the circular walk starting at Brockhill, twisting through local woods and peaceful country lanes. Our readers may also enjoy exploring other parks like Burnham Down, Creteway Down, East Cliff and Warren Country Park.

If you consider yourself a person who loves forests and woods, the Kent Downs National Landscape brims with an array of stunning options like Covert and Covet Woods, with the Elham Valley Way winding through it. Walk in the dappled light of mature trees and perhaps hop on one of several footpaths that go deeper into the greenery. Denge and Eggringe Woods are ideal for walking and horse riding, with a fantastic network of footpaths, byways and bridleways. Explore the former chalk grassland with rare lady orchids, enjoy sweeping vistas from the edge of the woods, and leave your camper at the small car park on Penny Pot Lane. The 1500-acre King’s Wood in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty was historically a hunting forest with a large herd of fallow deer that ran free in the greenery. The woodland boasts some of the best bluebell woodlands in East Kent and has a marked trail leading visitors around sculptures. If you want to explore more lush forests, head to Packing Wood, Paraker Wood, Perry Wood and Shoreham Woods. Keen to explore the woods without being tied to one spot? Campervan hire Canterbury is a solid way to go.

Combine big skies with vibrant towns and popular attractions on your road trip to the Kent Downs. Stop at Leeds Castle, called "the loveliest castle in the world, " with a history of over 90 years and a stunning position on two islands in a lake. One of England's largest and most important castles, Dover Castle, is another must-see best explored on a guided tour with a visit to the wartime tunnels. The picturesque, moated, Bodiam Castle is great for experiencing mediaeval life and is surrounded by lush gardens. Head out for Canterbury capers and enjoy a blend of mediaeval architecture, cultural attractions, and charming streets. The historic city is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Canterbury Cathedral.

The Kent Downs is a beautiful base for short and extended escapes, with various activities, points of interest, and varying landscapes. Use our guide to make an itinerary that works for you, and read on for quick driving routes and camping options that will eliminate the stress of planning a holiday from scratch.

Where to Camp at Kent Downs National Landscape

Now that you know a little more about the area, it’s time to look where you’ll rest your head during your campervan trip to the Kent Downs. We recommend staying at Little Lynton Acres, Dunn Street Farm, and Knowler Farm - three well-equipped and well-rated camping spaces at Kent Downs National Landscape perfect for tents and touring vehicles. Read on for site facilities and more information.

Little Lynton Acres in Ashford

Little Lynton Acres, Ashford

Little Lynton Acres is a peaceful camping site in the Kent Downs, just 20 minutes from Canterbury and a half-hour drive from Dover, Folkestone and Ashford. Take your pick of non-electric grass pitches for tents or electric optional grass pitches for tents and touring vehicles, and settle in for a peaceful escape, complete with the spectacular scenery of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There is plenty to keep campers entertained, including lovely country walks, days out at the coast, and family-friendly attractions like Howletts Wild Animal Park and Port Lympne Reserve nearby. The kids have ample room to run around and campers enjoy access to excellent amenities, including a shower and toilet block, local produce, the freedom to enjoy barbecues, and campfires.

Dunn Street Farm in Ashford

Dunn Street Farm, Ashford

Head to the Dunn Street Farm, a peaceful site on a working farm on the North Downs Way, for quiet rural escapes. Wake up to stunning views of woodland and fields, enjoy a delicious alfresco breakfast courtesy of the free-range eggs and apple juice from the fruit farm near Maidstone, and spend a relaxing day exploring nearby attractions and activities. Plenty of green open spaces create a wonderful playground for the kids, and attractions like the Port Lympne Wild Animal Park ensure a fantastic holiday for families. The surrounding fields are peppered with sheep, cattle and horses, setting the tone for a relaxing countryside escape. Campers, campervans, and motorhomes are welcome on a blend of grass and gravel pitches with optional electric metres.

Knowler Farm in Canterbury

Knowler Farm, Canterbury

Knowler Farm is ideal for quiet, adults-only Kent holidays, with peaceful and scenic surrounds and quick access to local attractions like Canterbury and Hythe Beach, all within a 20-minute drive. The area is a hotspot for walkers and cyclists, and Kent highlights, like Leeds Castle and Howletts Wild Animal Park, offer plenty of adventure for days out. Wander from inland points of interest to the coastline, with Hythe Beach set an easy 20-minute drive away on the south coast, or enjoy a day out at Whitstable, just 40 minutes away. The site rests on the fringes of the sleepy village of Stelling Minnis, with a pub, village shop and post office. Pitches are on grass with no electricity for both tents and tourers. Standard facilities are available, including a toilet block, showers, and a washing-up area.

How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape in a Campervan

Wondering how to get from your city to the Kent Downs National Landscape in a campervan? Wonder no more. We’ve mapped a quick route for our holidaymakers keen to escape the schedules and complexities of modern life, plus a scenic route for more relaxed drives with plenty of stops along the way. Find the fastest and most viewsome routes from London, Southampton, Bristol, Manchester and Newcastle upon Tyne.

How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape From London

Bluebell Forest. Charles

Book a campervan from a private campervan owner in London, and make your way to the Kent Downs National Landscape in under 2 hours via the A2 and the M2. London campervan Hire is ideal for getting about, and the cosmopolitan capital is a central base for road trips in the Kent Downs National Landscape.

The faster route from London covers 66 miles and is perfect for all escapes - quick weekends away from the city, bank holidays, and extended family vacations during the holiday seasons. If you have more time to explore, take a more relaxed pace to the Kent Downs, winding past charming villages, following the A20 as it snakes through the heart of Kent’s undulating countryside. Stop at Leeds Castle and the tranquil Elham Valley along the way, taking around two hours to reach the Kent National Landscape. Our campervan hire locations in London include campervans for hire in Southwark.

How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape from Southampton

The port city of Southampton is a fab base for kicking off a road trip to the Kent Downs National Landscape. With an airport and a central location, the city is often used as a starting point for road trips. Our readers will have plenty of Southampton campervans to choose from and easy access to a range of top-notch attractions along the way. The fastest route covers 133 miles and takes around 2 - 2.5 hours to complete via the M3 and the M25. Take the A31 and A272 through the tranquil South Downs, past the ancient woodlands and charming villages like Petersfield, for a more scenic route. Stop at the majestic Winchester Cathedral and explore the stunning Hinton Ampner Gardens, taking approximately three hours to reach the Kent Downs National Landscape.

How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape From Bristol

Buzzing Bristol is a central base for adventuring and is well-located for getting around. Kickstart your road trip to the Kent Downs with a Bristol campervan hire and leave the stress of the modern world behind for quiet woodlands, open countryside and the big skies. The quickest route is to follow the M4 and the M25, which cover 187 miles and take 4 hours to complete. For a romantic road trip, take the A4 through Wiltshire, stopping to admire the charm of Avebury and the grandeur of Marlborough’s countryside. Rumble past lovely villages, taking detours to admire historic sites like Leeds Castle before winding your way to the Kent Downs. This route takes around 3.5 hours and is perfect for our readers with plenty of time to spare. A three-and-a-half-hour drive makes holidays from Southampton to the Kent Downs ideal for bank holidays and longer getaways. Our campervan hire locations in Bristol include campervans for hire in Temple Meads, campervans for hire in Lawrence Hill, campervans for hire in Barton Hill, campervans for hire in Kingsdown, campervans for hire in St Pauls, campervans for hire in Stokes Croft, campervans for hire in Harbourside, campervans for hire in Monks Park, campervans for hire in Horfield, campervans for hire in Westbury Village, campervans for hire in Southmead and campervans for hire in Henbury.

How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape From Manchester

Are you moseying in from Manchester? Book a campervan in Manchester and make this city your gateway for exploring the Kent Downs National Landscape, with access to several other fantastic locations. Are you keen to head to the Kent Downs National Landscape as soon as possible? Follow the M6 and M25, and you’ll reach your destination in 5 hours, covering 279 miles. If relaxed driving is more your vibe, take the A49 south through the picturesque countryside, passing through picturesque towns like Shrewsbury and Ludlow. Stop to explore the historic city of Oxford before heading southeast on the A40. The more scenic route will take 6.5 hours or longer, depending on how many detours you take and the time spent at each location. We recommend heading to the Kent Downs National Landscape on bank holidays or school vacations. Our campervan hire locations in Manchester include campervans for hire in Bury, campervans for hire in Bolton, campervans for hire in Stockport, campervans for hire in Rowarth, campervans for hire in Glossop, campervans for hire in New Mills, campervans for hire in Knutsford and campervans for hire in Whaley Bridge.

How to Get to The Kent Downs National Landscape From Newcastle upon Tyne

Red Poppies, Shoreham Village. Ukgardenphotos

Book your campervan in Newcastle upon Tyne and head down to the beautiful Kent Downs National Landscape via the A1(M), a direct route covering 338 miles in 6 hours. Remember that with breaks this can add a few more hours to your journey, so maybe this is a destination you might want to spend a few days visiting. Our readers can also rumble along leisurely on the A1, then drift onto the A19, passing through the rolling hills of Yorkshire. Before reaching Kent, make a stop for the night (or more) at the North York Moors and the serene Howardian Hills. If you take the more scenic route with no overnight stops, the journey will take approximately 7 hours. We recommend heading down to the Kent Downs from Newcastle upon Tyne on holidays with plenty of time for long driving times. Our campervan hire locations in Newcastle upon Tyne include campervans for hire in Gateshead, campervans for hire in Blaydon On Tyne, campervans for hire in Beamish, campervans for hire in South Shields, campervans for hire in Whitley Bay, campervans for hire in Wylam, campervans for hire in Chester Le Street and campervans for hire in Prudhoe.

Your Campervan Guide to Visiting The Kent Downs National Landscape

We’re often asked if our readers can camp at the Kent Downs and why Kent is called the Garden of England. We’ll answer all your Frequently Asked Questions below and provide a range of easily accessible information, making it all the easier to save research time while navigating the particulars of planning a road trip to the Kent Downs. Read on as we answer queries about campervan hire prices, campsites near the beach, and more.

What is The Landscape Like in Kent?

National Landscapes cover a third of Kent, including the Kent Downs and the High Weald AONB. The rolling landscape is peppered with hushed, magical ancient forests carpeted with bluebells and waymarked trails. Turn to the coastlines and a range of sandy plus shingle and pebble beaches tempt with relaxing days of sun, sea, and sand. Rivers and waterways crisscross gently rolling countryside, orchards and farmland, while historic villages and towns rest near stately homes and mediaeval castles. The North Downs, a prominent chalk escarpment, extends across Kent, creating a distinctive landscape and rich habitats with bright white cliffs and steep slopes. There’s something for all tastes and preferences in Kent.

Can You Camp in Kent Downs?

Yes, you can camp in the Kent Downs, and we recommend it. Check out the campsites we listed above! There’s no better way to admire the natural beauty of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and there is a range of camping options suited to all preferences. We list a range of campsites, from traditional tent-only camping to glamping and campervan sites. Many campsites are also strategically located near prime attractions in the Kent Downs, making exploring the area during your stay easy.

What is Kent Popular For?

Kent combines natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness to create a stunning playground for visitors seeking relaxation, adventure, or a blend of both. Explore some of England’s most beautiful and historically significant castles, including Leeds Castle and Dover Castle, or visit Canterbury to tour its UNESCO World Heritage-awarded cathedral. The county has literary solid ties to Charles Dickens and is featured in The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, which describes the pilgrimage route to Canterbury. Historic villages like Chilham, Tenterden, and Faversham are famed for their charming atmosphere, traditional pubs and lovely streets. Many of these towns and villages retain their mediaeval layouts and give holidaymakers a glimpse into England’s past. Kent is close to London, making it a top destination for day trips and weekends.

Where is The Prettiest Village in Kent?

Elmley. Tom Lee

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so we can't really pinpoint one location. Kent is well-known for its wealth of charming settlements, each enjoying unique charm and character. Depending on personal taste, the prettiest settlement will vary. One village that often stands out is Chilham, a quintessentially English village that feels like stepping back in time. A well-preserved mediaeval square surrounded by charming timber-framed houses, a stunning historic church, and Chilham Castle contribute to its appeal. The settlement rests in the Kent Downs, an Outstanding Natural Beauty Area boasting gorgeous countryside views with effortless access to walking trails. We also think our readers will enjoy walking along the cobbled streets of Rye and exploring Pluckley, the "most haunted village in England". Penshurst sits amid stunning gardens and traditional Kentish architecture, while Aylesford boasts charming riverside cottages and a lovely position on the River Medway.

Why is Kent Called The Garden of England?

Kent is called the "Garden of England" due to its rich agricultural heritage, fertile soil, and the abundance of orchards, hop gardens, and farmlands that have historically produced a significant portion of England's fruits, vegetables, and hops. Kent's temperate climate and fertile soil create ideal crop growth conditions, particularly apples, pears, cherries, and hops. This agricultural abundance has earned the county its verdant nickname. The cultivation of hops, a key ingredient in beer, has been a significant industry in Kent for centuries. The county's hop gardens are a unique feature of its landscape, adding to its reputation as a productive and bountiful region. In recent years, Kent has also become known for its vineyards yielding award-winning English wines. The vineyards add to the diverse agricultural landscape and reinforce the county's garden image.

Campervan Road Trip Kent Downs National Landscape Cost

A few factors generally influence the cost of a campervan rental on Camperbug. The duration of your holiday plays a key role, with longer rentals often securing better daily rates. The type of campervan model also impacts the cost, with larger, more luxurious models commanding higher prices. Additionally, the season of hire is critical; prices tend to peak during the summer months and school holidays when demand is highest, while off-season rentals are generally more affordable. Consider these factors when booking a campervan, and you'll find the perfect campervan to suit your budget and travel plans.

Kent Scenic Drive

A scenic drive through Kent offers a journey through some of England's most picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and historic landmarks. Several routes are ideal for quiet campervan drives, and plenty of stunning points of interest are along the way. We recommend using the A25, B2026, and country lanes, which offer some of the most scenic routes with rolling hills, orchards, and quaint villages. Our reader can also stop at the White Cliffs, Leeds Castle near Maidstone, Canterbury, the Wye Downs, Ashdown Forest and more.

Tent Camping at Kent Downs National Landscape

If you’re the traditional type who prefers a no-frills approach to camping, check out our tent friendly campsites Kent Downs National Landscape. The Hop Farm is a spacious park spread across 500 acres of lush countryside and affords quick access to the River Medway for water-based antics like canoeing and fishing. The site also welcomes campervans and caravans and offers campers access to a modern shower and toilet block, a food shop, chemical disposal and barbecues.

New Romney Caravan Park is a beautifully maintained, pet-friendly site an hour from London and 300 yards from the ocean. Escape the city and enjoy a range of home comforts at this well-equipped site, with non-electric and optional electric pitches on grass and gravel for tents and touring vehicles. The site offers a range of excellent facilities, including an on-site restaurant and cafe, a launderette, a clubhouse, a takeaway and a play area.

Oak View Holiday Park is a serene site tucked in lush woodlands in the Kent Downs. The site is perfectly positioned for exploring local attractions, including Leeds Castle and Maidstone, all an easy 10-minute drive away. Sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds of wildlife in the protected woodland around your non-electric grass, electric grass, and gravel pitch. There are abundant walking trails and a range of top-notch activities nearby. Facilities include a Toilet block, showers, a washing-up area, a launderette and internet access.

Campsites at Kent Near Beach

Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst. Steve Payne

Are you keen on a Kent escape on the coastline? Painters Farm Campsite is a gorgeous camping space on a cherry orchard in Kent Downs. Sit back and let out a sigh of contentment as you laze in the dappled shade of the cherry trees, looking forward to exploring chalk cliffs, quiet woodlands, and the open countryside of the Kent Downs National Landscape. The site is an easy 25-minute drive from the coastal town of Whitstable, which is perfect for lazy days spent twiddling your toes in the sand, eating oysters, and heading out for trips in a sailboat. Take your pick of non-electric or electric grass pitches for tents and tourers, and look forward to a fab holiday in the countryside and the coastline.

Sandwich Lakes is another fine site for coastal escapes, set on the grounds of a coarse fishery, a mile from Sandwich. Park your camper or motorhome on a grass pitch with electricity, and look forward to a relaxing holiday in quiet settings with excellent fishing on-site courtesy of six well-stocked lakes. If you start hankering for an off-site adventure, Canterbury and Howletts Wild Animal Park are 10 miles away, and the seaside town of Ramsgate is a 15-minute away. Sandwich Lakes is the perfect base for a sandy escape with seal spotting and a quiet countryside escape.

Glamping Kent

Glamping is a fine way to enjoy the great outdoors with a range of home comforts at hand. Romney Meadows Caravan and Camping Park are a peaceful holiday park 5 minutes from the coastline, with a range of camping accommodations to suit all budgets. The site is a half mile outside New Romney's town, an easy 15-minute drive from Camber Sands, and only 10 minutes from the bird spotting haven of RSPB Dungeness. Book a cabin or bell tent, or enjoy a traditional escape in a tent or campervan on grass or hard standing with optional electricity.

Ending a Magical Tour of The Kent Downs National Landscape

So, we conclude our guide to the Kent Downs National Landscape. We hope we’ve made it easy for our readers to decide what points of interest they would like to explore in a rich tapestry of diverse landscapes. Wander from the verdant hills and ancient woodlands to charming villages and historic landmarks with ease, and leave the cities behind with our helpful driving routes. This guide is designed to be a flexible itinerary, allowing our reader to explore at their own pace and uncover their favourite spots. Stay tuned for our next National Landscape guide, where we’ll venture into the captivating East Devon National Landscape, promising more adventure and inspiration for your travel plans.