This article is all about introducing you to the best area for walking in the southeast of England – the places to head for if you want to enjoy some of the region’s top trails.
So let’s get stuck in…
More Useful Info
- Where to Stay When Walking in the South East
- Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Seven Sisters
- 10 Best Walks in the South East
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#1 Surrey Hills
Closest to London, the Surrey Hills is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
A great area for day trips from the city, there’s plenty of lovely walks here, many with elevated views including classic favourites Box Hill, Leith Hill.
#2 South Downs National Park
Stretching from Itchen valley in Hampshire across to Eastbourne in East Sussex, this huge reserve is one of England’s top national parks and offers amazing coastal as well as countryside hikes.
From one day trails like the Seven Sisters to week-long trails along the South Downs Way, the chalk ridges and cliffs make the undulating trails and gorgeous views this national park offers.
#3 High Weald AONB
The High Weald is another Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that offer great walking in the south east.
Spreading out over 450sqkm, this reserve is the 4th largest AONB in England and Wales and fans across the counties of East Sussex, Kent, West Sussex and Surrey.
Tunbridge Wells is the main town amidst this ancient landscape formed of wooded, rolling hills, scattered farmsteads and historic trails.
#4 Kent Downs AONB
In the far south east of the country, the Kent Downs is another Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which includes the famous White Cliffs of Dover.
Named as one of the best places to travel in 2022 by Lonely Planet, this is an magical landscape where walking will see you pass through ancient bluebell woodlands and along rugged chalk coastal cliffs.
#5 The South East Coast
And last but not least, one of the top areas to walk in the south east of England is along the glorious coastline of this region.
From the sandy beaches of Thanet, like Margate and Broadstairs, to the quintessential harbours of Whitstable and Hastings, through to the dramatic landscapes of the White Cliffs, Seven Sisters and Broken Head, not the mention the ambling trails of the Hampshire coast – there’s so many walks to discover here that if you’re looking for a good dose of sea air, this south east coastline is the perfect place to head.