Discover The North Downs Way National Trail
Set out on the North Downs Way National Trail, renowned as one of the UK’s most scenic routes for walkers, cyclists and runners alike. Experience a wealth of stunning landscapes, hearty local cuisine and welcoming accommodation options for your next excursion along the North Downs. However you aim to complete your journey, we’ll help keep you on the right path.
The North Downs Way is a much beloved national trail in the UK, spanning approximately 153 miles through the scenic countryside of southern England. Beginning in Farnham, Surrey, and ending in Dover, the trail offers a diverse range of landscapes, including rolling hills, charming villages, and lush woodlands. The trail is very well maintained with frequent wooden markers as well as a variety of signs along the way providing context on the many areas of outstanding beauty.
Whether you’re beginning in Farnham or Dover, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and encounter various historical landmarks, such as medieval castles and ancient churches. The trail also passes through many areas of natural beauty, including chalk grasslands and serene river valleys. If you keep an eye out you’ll also likely encounter a selection of art installations and sculptures dotted along the route.
Accommodation
Discover your perfect retreat along the North Downs Way National Trail with our curated selection of accommodation options. Whether you prefer the charm of a rustic bed and breakfast or the comfort of a quaint countryside inn, we have options to suit every taste and budget. Explore our handpicked accommodations and make the most of your North Downs Way adventure.
Pubs & Restaurants
Fuel your adventure with the diverse culinary offerings found along the North Downs Way. From cosy cafes serving freshly brewed coffee to charming pubs offering hearty meals, there’s no shortage of delicious options to refuel and refresh. Browse our top recommendations for food and drink offerings along the North Downs Way National Trail.
Transport
Whether you’re arriving from afar or simply navigating between trailheads, we’ve compiled the best transport options to keep you moving smoothly. From convenient bus and train routes to bicycle rentals and local taxi services, there’s a range of transportation options available to help get your adventure started.
Interesting Facts About the North Downs Way
Highest Point: The highest point on the trail is Botley Hill in Surrey, which reaches an elevation of 267 meters (876 feet) above sea level.
Historical Significance: The trail follows parts of the ancient Pilgrims’ Way, a route taken by pilgrims in the Middle Ages traveling from Farnham to the shrine of Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral. This is also the pilgrimage that frames Chaucer’s famous text: The Canterbury Tales. The North Downs Way also passes through several historically significant sites including Neolithic burial chambers, Roman roads, and medieval castles.
Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty: The trail traverses two designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – the Surrey Hills and the Kent Downs. These areas are recognized for their scenic landscapes offering a variety of picturesque photo opportunities for hikers and cyclists alike.
Walking and Running Events: The North Downs Way hosts various walking and running events, including ultra-marathons like the North Downs Way 50 and the North Downs Way 100, attracting participants from all over the country.
Environmental Initiatives: Efforts are ongoing to maintain and preserve the trail’s natural and historical features. Conservation projects aim to protect the unique chalk grassland habitats and the diverse species that live there.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes to walk the entire trail varies depending on your pace and the number of stops you make. On average, it can take between 10 to 14 days to complete the entire route. Some experienced walkers may complete it faster, while others may take longer to fully enjoy the sights and explore the surroundings.
Yes, the North Downs Way is suitable for walkers of varying experience levels. While there are some challenging sections, the trail is generally well-marked and offers a variety of terrain, from gentle slopes to steeper climbs. Beginners can choose shorter sections to walk at their own pace.
The best time to walk the North Downs Way is from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this time, the weather is generally more favourable, and the countryside is at its most beautiful. However, the trail can be walked year-round, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and shorter daylight hours in the winter.
Yes, there are a variety of accommodation options along the trail, including hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, campsites, and youth hostels. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak walking seasons.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the North Downs Way. However, be aware that some sections of the trail may pass through livestock areas close to and sometimes along major roads. In these instances it is advisable to keep dogs on a lead. Additionally, not all accommodation providers along the trail accept dogs, so it’s important to check in advance.
Yes, there are several companies that offer guided walking tours of the North Downs Way. These tours often include accommodation, meals, and luggage transfers, allowing you to enjoy the walk without worrying about logistics. Some great options include Letsgowalking and Contours.
Absolutely! The North Downs Way is divided into manageable sections, making it easy to complete the trail over several days or weekends. This approach allows walkers to experience the trail at their own pace and fit it around their schedules. See our guide to walking the North Downs Way where we’ve broken the route apart into more digestible sections ranging between 8 and 11 miles. More experienced walkers are welcome to combine multiple sections in the same day for a more challenging ramble across the North Downs.
Car Parks Along The North Downs Way
North Downs Way Trail Gallery
Whether for a day hike or a longer journey, the North Downs Way offers a memorable outdoor experience for visitors to enjoy the stunning beauty of the English countryside. Before you get going, check out our gallery of photos taken from various points along the trail. Regardless of the time of year, you’ll be sure to encounter some stunning sights on the North Downs Way.
