Kent offers some of the most varied walking in the south east, from rolling chalk downland and ancient woodland to wide open marshes and dramatic coastal paths. For dog owners, that variety means there are walks to suit short daily outings as well as longer, more adventurous hikes.
For dog owners, that variety translates into real choice. You can wander shaded forest trails, follow clifftop paths with the sound of the sea below, or settle into steady countryside walks that suit all abilities. Whether you are looking for a gentle outing or a longer, more demanding route, Kent offers dog friendly walking that feels diverse, scenic and rewarding year round.
1. Sevenoaks Circular via Knole and Ide Hill
This classic Kent Downs circular links the edge of Sevenoaks with quieter countryside beyond Knole Park. Starting near the town, the route quickly opens out into rolling fields, woodland tracks and elevated paths with far reaching views across the Weald.
While dogs must be kept under close control when passing through Knole due to deer, much of the wider route offers relaxed walking on clear footpaths. It is a well balanced walk that feels rural without being remote.
- Distance: approx. 6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
2. Wye to Chilham Downs Circular
This is one of the finest chalk downland walks in Kent and a standout route for confident walkers. Starting from Wye village, the route climbs steadily onto open downs before looping towards the pretty village of Chilham.
The views are expansive and the terrain feels open and airy, particularly in good weather. Dogs will enjoy the wide grassy paths, but good recall is important due to livestock and steep slopes in places.
- Distance: approx. 7 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
3. Blean Woods East Circular from Rough Common
This woodland loop takes you through the eastern section of Blean Woods, starting from Rough Common car park. The route follows a mix of woodland trails and quieter forest tracks, offering shade and shelter year round.
It is an excellent choice if you want a peaceful walk away from roads, with plenty of natural scents and space for dogs to explore responsibly.
- Distance: approx. 4.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
4. White Cliffs of Dover Coastal Path to St Margaret’s Bay
This iconic coastal walk follows the clifftop path from Dover towards St Margaret’s Bay. The route is well defined, with dramatic sea views throughout and a clear destination at the bay.
The paths are mostly firm and easy to follow, but dogs should be kept on lead near cliff edges. On clear days, views across the Channel make this one of the most memorable walks in the county.
- Distance: approx. 5 miles return
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Off lead potential: None
- Parking: Yes
5. Penshurst Place Circular via the River Eden
Starting near Penshurst village, this gentle circular follows sections of the River Eden before looping back through open countryside. The terrain is mostly flat, making it a good option for steady walking without steep climbs.
The combination of riverside paths, meadows and historic surroundings gives this walk a relaxed and scenic feel that suits dogs of all ages.
- Distance: approx. 4 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
6. Bedgebury Forest Loop from the Main Car Park
This defined forest loop uses a combination of wide gravel tracks and quieter woodland paths within Bedgebury. Starting from the main car park, it allows you to build distance without navigating complex junctions.
It works well in all seasons and is particularly popular with dog owners thanks to good footing and clear sight lines along much of the route.
- Distance: approx. 5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
7. Romney Marsh Circular from Dungeness Railway Path
This walk offers something completely different, following flat paths across Romney Marsh with huge skies and long sightlines. Starting near Dungeness, the route combines gravel tracks and grassy paths with a strong sense of space.
It is ideal for dogs that enjoy steady trotting rather than climbing, though exposure to wind means it can feel colder than inland walks.
- Distance: approx. 6 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
8. High Weald Woodland Circular from Goudhurst
Starting from the village of Goudhurst, this circular route drops into the wooded valleys of the High Weald before climbing back through fields and orchards.
The terrain is varied, with muddy sections after rain and some steady climbs, but the mix of woodland and open views makes it a rewarding walk for experienced walkers and active dogs.
- Distance: approx. 5.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Off lead potential: Some
- Parking: Yes
Advice for Walking with Dogs in Kent
- Chalk downs can be exposed, so carry water in warmer months
- Woodland routes can become muddy after rain, especially in the High Weald
- Coastal paths often require dogs on leads due to cliffs and wildlife
- Check seasonal restrictions where livestock grazing is active
Map of Dog Friendly Walks in Kent
Explore these dog friendly walks across Kent using our map below. Click the pins to uncover more details about the walk and directions to the nearest car park.
This circular route starts in Goudhurst and drops into the wooded valleys of the High Weald before climbing back through fields and orchards. It offers a strong mix of woodland shade and open countryside.
Expect muddy sections after rain and a few steady climbs, but the varied terrain makes it a rewarding walk for active dogs and walkers who enjoy a bit of challenge.
Distance: approx. 5.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
This flat circular route explores the wide open landscapes of Romney Marsh, starting near Dungeness and following a mix of gravel tracks and grassy paths. The sense of space and big skies is a highlight throughout.
It is ideal for steady walking and suits dogs that enjoy longer, even paced routes. Exposure to wind means it can feel cooler than inland walks.
Distance: approx. 6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
Starting from the main visitor car park, this forest loop uses a combination of wide gravel tracks and quieter woodland paths. The surfaces are generally good, making it a reliable option in most conditions.
The route allows you to build distance without complex navigation and is particularly popular with dog walkers thanks to clear sight lines and varied scenery.
Distance: approx. 5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
This gentle circular walk starts near Penshurst village and follows sections of the River Eden before looping back through open countryside. The route is mostly flat and easy underfoot, making it suitable for steady walking.
With riverside paths, meadows and historic surroundings, it is a relaxed and scenic route that suits dogs of all ages and energy levels.
Distance: approx. 4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
This clifftop route follows the coastal path from Dover towards St Margaret’s Bay, delivering uninterrupted sea views and dramatic chalk scenery. The path is well defined and stays close to the cliff edge for much of the walk.
It is an iconic Kent walk that feels wild and exposed in places. Dogs should be kept on lead near cliff edges, but the route is otherwise straightforward and easy to follow.
Distance: approx. 5 miles return
Difficulty: Moderate
Off lead potential: None
Parking: Yes
This woodland circular explores the eastern side of Blean Woods, starting from Rough Common and following a mix of forest tracks and quieter woodland paths. The terrain is gently undulating and well suited to a relaxed but engaging walk.
It is a peaceful route with plenty of shade and a strong sense of being immersed in woodland. A good option year round, particularly in warmer weather or after rain when exposed routes can feel less inviting.
Distance: approx. 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
Starting from the village of Wye, this classic North Downs circular climbs steadily onto open chalk grassland with wide views across the Stour Valley. The route then loops towards Chilham Downs before returning on a different line, keeping the scenery varied throughout.
It is a more demanding walk with sustained climbs, but the open paths and sense of space make it especially rewarding. Dogs will enjoy the wide grassy tracks, though good recall is important due to livestock.
Distance: approx. 7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
This circular route links the edge of Sevenoaks with the quieter countryside beyond Knole Park, offering a varied walk that mixes parkland, fields and elevated paths. Starting close to town, the route quickly feels rural as it climbs towards Ide Hill and the higher ground of the Kent Downs.
Dogs must be kept under close control while passing through Knole Park due to deer, but much of the wider route follows open footpaths and quieter lanes. It is a rewarding walk that balances scenery, distance and accessibility.
Distance: approx. 6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off lead potential: Some
Parking: Yes
Find even more adventures across the UK with our Wildpack Map, a specially curated list of dog friendly locations across the UK, including hikes, beaches, swimming spots and more.
What’s Nearby
Kent is blessed with more than just excellent dog friendly walks, there’s plenty nearby for dog lovers to enjoy.
- Surrey Hills
Rolling chalk downs, woodland climbs and long ridge walks make this a natural extension for walkers who enjoy elevation and open views. - South Downs National Park
Broad ridgelines, historic trails and well marked routes offer some of the best long distance dog friendly walking in the south. - East Sussex Coast and Countryside
Dramatic clifftop paths, quieter beaches and rural inland walks provide an easy continuation of coastal and countryside routes beyond Kent. - High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Ancient woodland, sunken lanes and gently undulating terrain stretch across Kent and Sussex, ideal for varied woodland and countryside walks. - Dog Friendly Beaches & Coastal Walks
Kent’s coastline links naturally with neighbouring coastal paths, making it easy to combine cliff walks, beaches and seaside villages. - Dog Friendly Campsites and Short Breaks
Ideal for turning a single walk into a longer stay, with easy access to countryside, coast and woodland routes.
Final Thoughts
Kent is an outstanding county for dog friendly walking, offering genuine route variety rather than repetitive terrain. By choosing defined routes with clear start points, you can plan walks that suit your dog’s energy level and your own appetite for distance and challenge.