The best walks and hikes around Oare
4.5
(338)
2,492
hikers
12
hikes
Hikes around Oare explore the coastal landscape of northern Kent, defined by its low-lying terrain. The region is characterized by expansive wetlands and saltmarshes, particularly within the Oare Marshes Nature Reserve. Routes often follow the banks of Oare Creek and sections of the Saxon Shore Way, offering open views across the flat terrain towards The Swale.
Best hiking trails around Oare
- The most popular hiking route is Oare Marshes Nature Reserve – Shipwrecks Along The Swale loop from Oare, a 3.4 mile (5.5 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 25 minutes to complete. This easy walk is ideal for Oare marshes bird watching and viewing the shipwrecks in the creek.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Shipwrecks Along The Swale – Oare Marshes Nature Reserve loop from Faversham, a moderate 9.9 mile (15.9 km) path. The route follows Faversham Creek out to the marshes, combining waterside paths with quiet country lanes.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the The Shipwrights Arms – Faversham Creek loop from Faversham, a 4.6 mile (7.5 km) trail leading through the area's marshland, often completed in about 1 hour 55 minutes.
- Hiking around Oare is defined by coastal paths, expansive wetlands, and creek-side trails. The network of mostly flat routes provides options for different ability levels, including many easy walks around Oare.
- The routes in Oare are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 300 reviews. More than 2,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Oare's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
4.4
(15)
101
hikers
7.48km
01:54
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(16)
69
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.6
(21)
88
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
46
hikers
2.69km
00:41
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Oare
Tips from the Community
Still closed for maintenance March 2025. But beautiful from the outside.
0
0
Opening times 10am till 4pm weekends. Temporarily closed for maintenance. Oct 2024
0
0
Four ferries previously connected the island to mainland Kent: the King's Ferry to Iwade, the Harty Ferry to Faversham, one from Elmley, and a passenger ferry connecting to the Port Victoria railway terminus on the Grain Peninsula.
1
0
On the secondary patronage of this church: "Saint LAWRENCE" is one of the early Christian Roman martyrs from a time when Christianity was still strictly forbidden. He was archdeacon of Pope Sixtus II and after his execution was ordered by the pagan emperor Valerian to hand over the treasure of the church. Laurentius asked for three days to do this, distributed the church's assets among the poor inhabitants of Rome and, after the agreed time, came to the emperor with the poor to present them to him as the treasure of the church. He was then tortured to death. Legend has it that he was roasted alive on a grate - this attribute can be seen in many depictions of Saint Lawrence - over coals. He is said to have been in good spirits and asked his executioner if he would turn him over. The memorial day of Saint Lawrence in the calendar of saints is August 10th, the recorded date of his execution in A.D. 258.
1
0
On the main patronage of this church: After the Mother of God, "MARY MAGDALENA" is the woman most frequently mentioned in the writings of the New Testament. Originally known as "Mary of Magdala" - after her place of origin on the Sea of Galilee - the name "Mary Magdalene" has been formed over time. According to the testimony of the evangelists, she is one of the women and men who followed Jesus Christ. According to the biblical accounts, Mary Magdalene is also one of the three who wanted to anoint the body of Jesus on Easter morning after the crucifixion and burial of Jesus and the very first person who ever met the Risen One. Pope Francis has therefore honored her as the 'Apostle of the Apostles', saying at a general audience: + "She shows us the God who knows us humans, cares for us and looks after our lives. Every person is a story of love that God writes on earth. As with Mary Magdalene, the life of every Christian is taken up in this overflowing joy: we have a God at our side who calls us by name and raises us up, who transforms us and the world through his resurrection." The feast day of Saint Mary Magdalene in the calendar of saints is unanimously July 22nd in the major Christian denominations.
1
0
Faversham's position near the coast and on a navigable Creek was key in its success as a site for explosives production.
1
0
The swing bridge over Faversham Creek has been out of action for several years. Kent County Council (KCC) and the local port authority, Peel Ports, have been locked in a dispute over who owns the bridge and who should foot the bill to fix the structure.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks available around Oare?
Yes, the area is excellent for circular walks. The landscape, with its network of coastal paths and country lanes, lends itself well to loop routes. A great example is the Shipwrecks Along The Swale – Oare Marshes Nature Reserve loop from Oare, which provides a comprehensive tour of the marshes and creek-side scenery.
What are the best family-friendly hikes in the Oare area?
The region is very suitable for family outings due to its mostly flat terrain. There are 10 easy trails to choose from. For a shorter, engaging walk with children, consider the The other side – Oare Marshes Nature Reserve loop from Harty. It's a brief 1.5-mile (2.5 km) walk that's manageable for little legs.
Can I bring my dog on walks around Oare?
Yes, many trails around Oare are dog-friendly, especially in open areas. However, when walking through the Oare Marshes Nature Reserve, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead to protect the sensitive wildlife and ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Where can I park to go hiking in Oare?
The main car park for accessing the trails is at the Oare Marshes Nature Reserve, located on Church Road. It's a popular starting point for many walks and provides direct access to the reserve and the Saxon Shore Way. Arrive early on weekends as it can get busy.
Are there any pub walks in the area?
Absolutely. The village of Oare has historic pubs like The Three Mariners, which can be a perfect start or end point for a hike. You can easily combine a walk along Oare Creek or through the nearby countryside with a visit for refreshments.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?
The scenery is dominated by expansive, open wetlands and saltmarshes, especially within the Oare Marshes Nature Reserve. You'll see freshwater dykes, mudflats, and historic shipwrecks in Oare Creek. The area is an internationally important habitat for migratory and wetland birds, making it a prime spot for birdwatching year-round.
Are the trails around Oare accessible by public transport?
Yes, the nearby town of Faversham has a train station with good connections. From there, you can start several hikes that lead out to Oare and the marshes, such as the route that follows Faversham Creek. This allows you to enjoy a full day of hiking without needing a car.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Oare?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning, wild views across The Swale, the abundant birdlife in the nature reserve, and the peaceful, flat paths that make for relaxing walks.
Are there any historical points of interest on the walks?
Yes, many routes pass by interesting historical sites. You can see the intriguing shipwrecks in Oare Creek, remnants of the area's boatbuilding past. For a dedicated historical walk, visit the nearby Oare Gunpowder Works Country Park, which features well-preserved ruins from a former gunpowder factory set within a woodland.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from around Oare?
There are over a dozen designated hiking routes around Oare available on komoot. The collection includes 10 easy walks, 3 moderate trails, and one difficult option, ensuring there's a suitable path for every fitness level.
Can I walk a section of the Saxon Shore Way near Oare?
Yes, the Saxon Shore Way, a long-distance footpath, runs directly through the area. Many circular walks around Oare incorporate a scenic section of this trail, particularly the part that runs along the sea wall of the Oare Marshes Nature Reserve, offering fantastic views over the wetlands.
Most popular attractions around Oare
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
