Sevenoaks Circular via Knole and Ide Hill
Kent
This 9.7km circuit links the deer park at Knole, one of England's largest and oldest country houses, with the village of Ide Hill high on the Kent Downs greensand ridge. The route starts near Sevenoaks and passes through Knole Park where fallow and sika deer graze beneath ancient oaks, before climbing through farmland and quiet lanes to Ide Hill at 240 metres with views across the Weald to the South Downs. The return drops through woodland and field paths back to the park. With 133 metres of climbing, the gradients are gentle but the elevated sections give a genuine sense of the Kent landscape unfolding below.
This dog friendly walk requires careful lead management as deer are present throughout Knole Park and dogs must be kept on leads within the park boundaries. Off-lead potential is moderate on the farmland sections between the park and Ide Hill, though leads are needed where livestock is present in the fields. The ancient oaks in Knole Park carry rich scent and the woodland sections provide shade and shelter. Water sources are limited, so carry a supply. The Woodman pub at Ide Hill welcomes dogs and has fine views from its garden. Parking is available near Knole Park. The combination of grand parkland, elevated countryside and the deer park makes this a walk with more variety than the gentle terrain might suggest.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 9.7 km (6.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr
- Walk Type
- Park
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- High
- Facilities
- National Trust visitor facilities, Cafe, Shop
- Parking
- NT car park £5 non-members, free for members - pre-book at weekends
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sevenoaks Circular via Knole and Ide Hill dog friendly?
Yes, this is a well-regarded dog-friendly walk with a rating of 8 out of 10. The route offers a good mix of parkland, farmland and woodland, and the Woodman pub at Ide Hill also welcomes dogs, making it a solid choice for a day out with your dog.
Can dogs be off lead at Sevenoaks Circular via Knole and Ide Hill?
Off-lead opportunities are moderate on this walk. Dogs must be kept on leads throughout Knole Park due to the resident fallow and sika deer herds, and leads are also required wherever livestock is present in the farmland sections. There is more freedom on the stretches between the park and Ide Hill where no livestock are present.
What should I know before visiting Sevenoaks Circular via Knole and Ide Hill with my dog?
The most important thing to be aware of is the deer in Knole Park , lead management is essential throughout the park boundaries. Water sources are limited along the route, so bring plenty for your dog. Parking is available at the National Trust car park, which costs £5 for non-members and is free for members, with pre-booking recommended at weekends.
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