ITINERARY
DAY 1 - GRAVESEND TO COOLING
This scenic 10.22-mile stretch of the Saxon Shore Way leads you from the bustling town of Gravesend to the tranquil village of Cooling. As you traverse this route, you'll experience a delightful blend of coastal views, lush green fields, and charming countryside. The journey takes you through peaceful landscapes, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the beauty of the Kentish shoreline. This enjoyable and moderately challenging walk offers a rich tapestry of history, nature, and picturesque scenery, making it a perfect outing for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
DAY 2 - COOLING TO ROCHESTER
Embark on an 11.01-mile journey along the Saxon Shore Way, starting in the quaint village of Cooling and ending in the historic city of Rochester. This picturesque route meanders through lush farmland, serene woodlands, and alongside the scenic banks of the River Medway. As you walk, you'll encounter charming villages and stunning views, including the iconic Rochester Castle and its rich heritage. This moderately challenging trail beautifully combines the tranquillity of the Kent countryside with glimpses of local history, making it an ideal choice for walkers seeking a blend of nature and culture.
DAY 3 - ROCHESTER TO UPCHURCH
This 11.4-mile stretch of the Saxon Shore Way takes you from the historic city of Rochester to the charming village of Upchurch. The route offers a delightful mix of riverside paths and tranquil countryside, where you can enjoy picturesque views of the River Medway and its surroundings. As you walk, you'll pass through lush fields and quaint hamlets, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the Kent landscape. This walk provides a perfect opportunity to explore the rich history of the area while taking in the natural splendour of the region, making it an enjoyable experience for all walkers.
DAY 4 - UPCHURCH TO SITTINGBOURNE
Experience a captivating 15.5-mile walk along the Saxon Shore Way, from the picturesque village of Upchurch to the lively town of Sittingbourne. This scenic route runs alongside the coastline, offering stunning views of the estuary and surrounding landscapes. As you stroll, you'll pass through lush orchards, filling the air with the sweet scent of fruit in season. The trail showcases the beauty of Kent’s agricultural heritage, providing a serene atmosphere as you enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. This walk perfectly blends coastal beauty and the charm of the Kent countryside, making it a delightful adventure for all walkers.
DAY 5 - SITTINGBOURNE TO FAVERSHAM
Set out on an exhilarating 16.6-mile journey along the Saxon Shore Way, taking you from the vibrant town of Sittingbourne to the historic town of Faversham. This coastal walk showcases breathtaking views of the estuary and the natural beauty of Kent’s shoreline. As you traverse the path, you’ll encounter picturesque landscapes, withopen fields dotting the route. The trail offers a unique blend of coastal scenery and rich agricultural heritage, providing plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the serene atmosphere. This walk is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Kent’s coast while discovering its rich history along the way.
DAY 6 - FAVERSHAM TO HERNE BAY
Embark on a stunning 15.19-mile coastal walk along the Saxon Shore Way, journeying from the historic town of Faversham to the charming seaside town of Herne Bay. This picturesque route offers breathtaking views of the estuary and the open sea, showcasing the natural beauty of Kent's coastline. As you walk, you’ll pass through idyllic landscapes, including lush fields, while enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. The trail provides ample opportunities for birdwatching and appreciating the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. This walk combines the allure of coastal scenery with the rich heritage of the region, making it a fantastic adventure for walkers seeking both tranquillity and exploration.
DAY 7 - HERNE BAY TO UPSTREET
Take a scenic 9.56-mile journey along the Saxon Shore Way, transitioning from the coastal charm of Herne Bay to the serene inland beauty of Grove Ferry. As you leave the seaside behind, you'll traverse a variety of landscapes, including lush fields, tranquil waterways, and picturesque countryside. This route invites you to immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the area, with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The walk provides a delightful contrast to the coastal sections, showcasing the beauty of Kent's rural landscape. This moderately challenging trail is perfect for those looking to experience the diverse scenery and natural heritage of the region while enjoying a tranquil day out.
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation Information
Overnight in B&B’s, small hotels and guesthouses, specifically chosen to ensure that you enjoy every minute of your stay. They all offer a warm welcome to walkers and traditional hospitality.
Accommodation Location
We will always try and accommodate you at the locations detailed in the tour itinerary. Occasionally, because of limited availability, we may have to accommodate you into alternative accommodations which are not listed in the description. If those listed are unavailable the alternative accommodation will be of the same or better standard than those described.
Solo Walkers & Single Rooms
This tour is available to solo walkers, although a supplement is payable. If you require single rooms within your party we would be happy to accommodate your request. A single supplement is also payable.
****Due to a lack of accommodation in some parts, you will likely be overnighting in nearby location with a return transfer back to starting point the following morning.
getting there
BY RAIL
Trains depart from some of London's major stations—including St Pancras, Charing Cross and London Bridge —allowing you to select the most convenient option for your journey. However, for the quickest service, opt for trains leaving from St Pancras.
BY CAR
Canterbury is about 1.5 hour drive from London via A2 . There are plenty of car parks located around.
BY BUS
National Express runs four indirect buses from London to Gravesend, with services departing between 8:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. All passengers will need to change at Dartford Bluewater Shopping Centre before taking a local bus connection to their destination. The London to Dartford leg of the journey leaves from London Victoria Coach Station and arrives at Bluewater around 1 hour 40 minutes later. After that, it takes about 30 minutes to reach Gravesend.