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The North Downs Way National Trail, the premier route in the
South East, runs for 153 miles through the
Surrey
Hills (opens in a new window) and
Kent
Downs (opens in a new window) Areas of Outstanding Natural
Beauty (AONBs).
Where is the trail?
The North Downs Way starts at Farnham on the Surrey/Hampshire
border and ends at Dover - Gateway to England. There is a loop at
the eastern end to take in the historic Cathedral City of
Canterbury. Much of the trail follows the Pilgrims Way: the
legendary route used by pilgrims on their way from Winchester to
Canterbury to pray at the shrine of St Thomas Becket.
Modern day pilgrims who walk the route enjoy some of the finest
scenery in east England. The route takes the traveller through a
rich tapestry of heritage and history. Along the route, the trail
passes three cathedrals, castles, palaces, stately homes, ancient
sites and endless defensive fortifications.
What you will see along the
trail
Much of the Downs are covered with rich woodland and rare chalk
grasslands, which encourages a rich diversity of flora and fauna.
There are nature reserves, rare plants and butterflies - but
wherever you find yourself on the Downs there will always be a new
discovery or breathtaking view awaiting you just around the
corner.
Circular walks along the trail
For those of you who want to experience the exhilarating views
from the North Downs but prefer shorter walks, we are in the
process of producing a series of free short circular walks along
the trail.
Download guides for the walks at
Cuxton, Hollingbourne, Chartham, Chilham and Charing.
For more information
To find out all that the trail can offer, from scenic circular
walks to longer routes, and for all your accommodation needs visit
the North Downs Way National Trail website, contact
the trail office on 01622 221525 or
email the North Downs
Way.
Maps and guides
You can also buy guides and publications that will tell you all
about the trail from the
on-line shop. |