BEGINNERS HIKE 15km Castles of Kent, Lullingstone Country Park & Darent Valley

Key Info:
Distance: 9 miles (15km)
Grading: Beginner but it has 2 long steep hills, we take these gently and wait at the top
Ascent: 290m
Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours
Cost: £31 (includes guided hike + return train)
Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [Resale Process] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund.
Toilet breaks: On the train, at the lunch stop, and at the end pub

Meeting Point
Location: Victoria station. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - MAP & PHOTO
Time: Meet 8:20am, leave 8:40am for the 8:55am train
Return: 5:34pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then)

Highlights
Admire Lullingstone Castle and its tranquil lakeside setting
Walk a scenic stretch of the Darent Valley Path
Pass the site of Lullingstone Roman Villa, dating back to around 100 AD
Explore Lullingstone Country Park, home to 800-year-old trees
Visit the ruins of Eynsford Castle, a Norman fortification from 1088
Hike beneath the striking Eynsford Rail Viaduct, with its 22m-high brick arches
Stroll through three charming Kentish villages — Otford, Shoreham and Eynsford

Hike Description
We begin in the historic village of Otford, occupied for at least 3,000 years. Through the ages, it has been home to Iron Age farmers, Romans, royalty and archbishops. From here our route leads into the tranquil woods and grasslands of the Kentish countryside, reaching Shoreham before following the Darent Valley Path into the heart of the valley.

The trail takes us into the beautiful Lullingstone Country Park, internationally important for its collection of ancient trees. Beech, ash, oak, sweet chestnut and hornbeam all thrive here, with some specimens thought to be over 800 years old. Emerging from the woodland, we arrive at Lullingstone Castle, set beside its peaceful lake, before continuing to the site of Lullingstone Roman Villa — a rare survival of a Roman estate house first built around 100 AD.

From here we continue through rolling Kent fields, rewarded with views of the impressive Eynsford Rail Viaduct, its nine red-brick arches towering 22 metres above the valley floor.

Our hike concludes in the charming village of Eynsford, where we explore the evocative ruins of Eynsford Castle, a Norman stronghold built in 1088. With its riverside setting, ancient remains and traditional cottages, the village provides a perfect finale to a day steeped in history and countryside beauty.

Guide:
Leader: JOHN
Contact (hike day only): 07508 511026

️ Food:
Bring a packed lunch
Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional)

What to Bring
Hiking boots/shoes
Water (2 litres minimum)
Packed lunch
Waterproofs (jacket and trousers)
Hat and gloves if cold
Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point

⚠️ Safety
Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider

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