thurnham castle and north downs Walk Guided Walks
explore thurnham castle ruins and north downs on a guided walk
A quick intro
As a part of Kent of Heart Walking Festival, join us on Sunday 22nd March for a guided circular walk from White Horse Wood country park, which is set within Kents Downs National Landscape. This 6.5-mile (11 km) route follows the most known south east long distance trail of North Downs Way.
Along the way, we will stop to explore the ruins of Thurnham castle and its history.
This relaxing countryside walk offers the perfect mix of nature, history and stunning views, making it an ideal day out for anyone who loves to explore different parts of Kent.
The details about thurnham castle and north downs walk
the details
Schedule
Date: 22 March 2026
Meet and Start Time: 09:15 meet for 09:30 am start
Walking time: 4 hrs (incl. lunch break)
Staff Member: Ian Henderson
Location
Meeting point: White Horse Wood Car Park, Maidstone, ME14 3JE
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Car Parking: Charges not included
Route
Terrain: Mixed, some steep incline
Distance: Approximately 11 km (6.5 miles)
Walk Type: Circular
your kit list
- Suitable footwear (preferably walking boots or sturdy shoes, no flip-flops)
- A waterproof coat (and waterproof trousers, if you have them) for rainy days
- Drinking water and a packed lunch
- Personal medication (Let us know confidentially about any medical conditions)
- Suitable walking attire
important notes
- We welcome friendly dogs on our walks, provided they remain on a lead at all times. The owner is fully responsible for their dog throughout the walk.
- We take photos during our walks for promotional and training purposes. If you prefer not to be included, just let us know on the day.
- Cancellation policy states: Full payment becomes due if a user cancels within 4 days of the activity. Any person cancelling outside of 4 days, will receive a credit available to use within 90 days. Cancel at least 4 days before the event to receive a credit note for a future walk, valid for 90 days.
Learn more aboutthis wonderful walk
Join us on Sunday, 22nd March for a guided walk through one of the most scenic stretches of the North Downs, taking in the atmospheric ruins of Thurnham Castle and the sweeping chalk landscapes that make this area so special. This walk forms part of the Heart of Kent Walking Festival, celebrating the beauty, history, and stories found across the county.
We’ll set off from White Horse Wood Country Park, a peaceful hilltop space with far-reaching views over the Kent countryside. Almost immediately, the trail leads us up towards the remains of Thurnham Castle — a Norman stronghold perched on the ridge since the 12th century. Its crumbling walls still hint at a turbulent past of power, defence, and medieval life along the Downs.
From here, our route follows sections of the North Downs Way, winding through ancient woodland, chalk grassland, and open ridgelines with panoramic vistas across the Weald. This landscape has witnessed centuries of travellers, soldiers, farmers, and pilgrims, and still carries the quiet imprint of those who walked it long before us.
With its blend of nature, heritage, and spectacular scenery, this walk offers a refreshing and memorable way to connect with Kent’s past.
This route brings together history, big skies, and the timeless beauty of the North Downs — a perfect outing for those who enjoy discovering hidden stories within the landscape.
The walk starts promptly on time. If you’re running a bit behind schedule, give us a call to inform us .