Enjoy a delicious lunch or a few cosy drinks after one of these countryside strolls. Here are five great pub walks in Kent

The Tiger Inn

Stowting, Ashford

Location: Situated in the Downs between Ashford and Canterbury, close to the M20 and the North Downs Way.

The walk: The Tiger sits close to the North Downs Way, so there are lots of gorgeous walks on the doorstep. If you fancy a long haul, there is a scenic 12.8-mile walk route downloadable at walkingclub.org.uk (Sandling to Wye).

This long stroll boasts fantastic views from the North Downs escarpment for most of the way, as well as beautiful displays of wildflowers. You can read more about this section of the North Downs Way at northdownsway.co.uk (Wye to Etchinghill).

The pub: This 17th-century pub looks out onto the beautiful Kentish countryside and has rustic decor inside. The tasty, traditional pub dishes are made with local, organic produce. Dogs are welcome in the bar.


The Hare

Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells

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Location: Langton Green is west of Royal Tunbridge Wells, on the A264. The village sits on the edge of the rolling countryside.

The walk: Enjoy a challenging four-mile circular stroll from The Hare, passing by the beautiful moated manor house of Groombridge Place, and enjoying wonderful views, woodland paths and secluded ancient byways.

The route includes climbs and descents, steps and stiles (one of which does not have a dog flap, so your pet may have to be lifted over). See the mapped route here.

The pub: The Hare is a lovely 18th-century pub in the village of Langton Green. The food is delicious – you can choose from light lunches, hearty meals, Sunday roasts, and smaller dishes for children. Well-behaved dogs are allowed on a lead in bar areas, but not in the dining room.


The Bull

The Street, Benenden, Cranbrook

Location: South of Sissinghurst, off the A229.

The walk: There are many countryside walks from this village. To the south, you can make a seven-mile loop to Rolvenden and back, encompassing the High Weald Landscape Trail and Strawberry Wood; find the route here. Or hike a longer 10.7-mile route (downloadable) through fields, orchards and woodland.

The pub: The Bull pub sits on the edge of the village green in Benenden and has a secret garden for al fresco dining. The characterful, historic interior oozes charm, and the delicious menu includes light lunches and hearty dishes.

You can even order your food before heading off for a country walk, and it will be ready for when you get back! Bring the pooch, too, because dogs are welcome.


The George Inn

44 The Street, Newnham, Faversham

Location: In the Kent Downs, off the M2, south-east of Sittingbourne, and south-west of Faversham.

The walk: There are lots of lovely downland walks in the area, including the Syndale Valley Walk (downloadable), a loop of 6.5 miles, with a longer 11-mile option.

Situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this chalk valley is a joy. Look out for birds of prey soaring overhead and butterflies feeding on the wildflowers, and enjoy even more flora and fauna in the sections of woodland and the pretty churchyard at Doddington.

The pub: The 16th-century George Inn is a friendly, family-run country pub with a large beer garden, exposed beams and inglenook fireplaces. The menu offers a mixture of tasty traditional pub fare, and contemporary dishes, all made with local produce.


The Ferry House Inn

Harty Ferry Road, Leysdown

Location: The Isle of Sheppey lies north of Faversham via the A249.

The walk: Enjoy the peaceful marshy flats of the Isle of Sheppey beside the Swale Estuary on a six-mile circular stroll from The Ferry House Inn, passing St Thomas’ Church.

Stride across the flat fields by Brewer’s Hill and return on the seawall path by Shell Ness Nature Reserve, using OS Explorer map 149. Take your binoculars to enjoy the sight of sea birds wading the salt marshes and mudflats. If you’re lucky, you might also see barn owls hunting at dusk.

The pub: The beautiful 16th-century Ferry House Inn is located in the hamlet of Harty, alongside the Swale Estuary. Enjoy delicious food in the restaurant or the bar, choosing from the a la carte menu, the children’s menu or the specials board. There is a play area for children.

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