4.5
(956)
5,157
hikers
443
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Sheldwich traverse a landscape characterized by tranquil, rolling countryside, active farmland, and ancient woodlands within the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region features diverse natural elements such as orchards, meadows, and historic woods like Perry Wood. Hikers can explore varied terrain, including cornfields and country lanes, with gentle elevation changes.
Last updated: October 4, 2026
4.8
(5)
18
hikers
4.05km
01:07
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
5
hikers
6.65km
01:48
100m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
4.82km
01:17
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Beer and pizza at the weekend or long summer evenings at papa bianco
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In the 12th century a highway was laid out as a grand approach to the Abbey which had survived Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries to become a residential area popular with anyone who owed their livelihood to the Creek, whether as merchant, craftsman or seaman. Toward the end of the 19th century its middle-class residents started moving to new houses elsewhere in the town, and many of its properties became tenanted. The new occupiers were often much poorer than their predecessors. Landlords neglected the properties and so the street came to look 'down-at-heel'. Determination to build a 'brave new world' after the end of the Second World War encouraged local councils to sweep away houses that lacked modern amenities. Most of those in Abbey Street qualified, but they were also historic buildings of importance. After intervention by the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, an ingenious pioneering scheme launched by Faversham Borough Council in the late 1950s saved them from the fate that overtook many of their counterparts elsewhere. Apart from Arden's House (No 80), none of the properties is of outstanding national importance, and so they were not eligible for historic building repair grants. However, collectively they are of national importance, and so the first 'town scheme' was introduced to make them eligible. Most of them were bought by the council under slum-clearance powers, and their occupants re-housed elsewhere. However, instead of being demolished the properties in Abbey Street were sold to sympathetic owners who covenanted with the council to restore them under the supervision of an architect with experience of historic building care. To cover its costs, the council made a slight profit on each - buying the smaller houses for about £250 each and then selling them for about £300. In other historic towns, streets were being brutally widened, but in Abbey Street the carriageway was actually narrowed - the first in the UK - to reduce traffic nuisance. At the same time, the street was planted with trees. Abbey Street is sometimes said to be the finest medieval street in southeast England. It is certainly a wonderful "gallery" of old buildings, mainly timber-framed. As already noted, the ace in the pack is Arden's House, one of the few surviving buildings of Faversham Abbey, and possibly its guesthouse. With 81 (Arden's Cottage), it originally formed a big "open courtyard" house. It dates from around 1450-1500, with remains of the Abbey outer gatehouse of c 1200, which spanned the street here.
1
0
Besides a working Coppice these swings are relatively new located on the trail between the car park and the lookout point
1
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There are XC bike trails and a Freeride / Downhill area in the old Quarry site. Soft ground means soft landings!
1
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Large Meeting point with many different style Benches well spaces with plenty of parking.
1
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Sheldwich offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 220 routes available. These trails traverse the tranquil, rolling countryside, active farmland, and ancient woodlands within the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
On easy hikes around Sheldwich, you can expect a diverse landscape featuring rolling countryside, active farmland, and ancient woodlands. Trails often lead through cornfields, country lanes, and past hop gardens and orchards. Perry Wood, a notable ancient woodland, also offers paths through mature trees and glades.
Yes, many easy trails in Sheldwich are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the St James' Church, Sheldwich loop from Sheldwich, which is 3.1 miles (5.0 km) long and takes you through the village surroundings.
Easy hikes around Sheldwich offer views of diverse natural features and charming landmarks. You can explore ancient woodlands like Perry Wood, which is home to heathland wildlife, or traverse through abundant orchards and lush meadows. Historic churches, such as St. James' Church in Sheldwich, are also common sights. For specific points of interest, consider visiting Chilham Square or enjoying the View of the Valley, Kent Downs National Landscape.
Sheldwich is known as a 'Land For All Seasons' for walkers. Spring brings lush meadows, summer offers sun-drenched fields, and autumn showcases abundant orchards. Winter is particularly vibrant in the ancient woodlands with wildfowl. The diverse landscape ensures enjoyable easy walks year-round, depending on your preference for seasonal scenery.
Yes, many easy trails in Sheldwich are well-suited for families due to their gentle elevation changes and manageable distances. The varied landscapes, from woodlands to farmland, provide engaging environments for children to explore. For example, the View from The Mount – Perry Wood loop from Selling is a 2.5-mile trail that explores diverse habitats.
Many easy trails in Sheldwich are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the rolling countryside and woodlands with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or near wildlife habitats like Perry Wood. Please check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Parking is generally available near popular trailheads and villages in the Sheldwich area. For walks exploring Perry Wood, there is often dedicated parking at Perry Wood Car Park. When planning your route, check the starting point for specific parking information, as many village walks, like those around St. James' Church, Sheldwich, may have roadside parking or small village car parks.
While Sheldwich is a rural area, some public transport options may connect to nearby towns or villages. However, direct public transport links to specific trailheads might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules to villages like Sheldwich Lees or Selling, which often serve as starting points for walks, and plan your journey accordingly.
The duration of easy hikes in Sheldwich varies, but many can be completed within 1 to 2.5 hours. For instance, the View from The Mount – Perry Wood loop from Selling takes approximately 1 hour 7 minutes, while the Perry Wood – View from The Mount loop from Selling is a longer option at about 2 hours 10 minutes.
The easy trails in Sheldwich are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 780 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil rolling countryside, the beauty of ancient woodlands like Perry Wood, and the well-maintained paths that make for a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience.
Yes, you'll find charming pubs and cafes in and around the villages near Sheldwich, perfect for a refreshment stop before or after your easy hike. Villages like Sheldwich Lees and Selling often have local establishments where you can enjoy a pub lunch or a coffee, adding to the overall experience of exploring the Kent countryside.


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