Kent's Spookiest Walks
Halloween is almost upon us so why not look to get into the spirit of the spooky season by embarking on a haunting walk. Here are our top five locations in Kent to explore this October half-term.
Halloween is almost upon us so why not look to get into the spirit of the spooky season by embarking on a haunting walk. Here are our top five locations in Kent to explore this October half-term:-
1. Pluckley Village
Located five miles west of Ashford, Pluckley attracts ghost hunters from all over the UK after being listed in the Guinness Book of Records for being “the most haunted village in Britain”. With haunted graveyards and woods, a walk around Pluckley will not disappoint as it is equally known for its beautiful street scenes and surrounding countryside which were used as the backdrop for the TV series “The Darling Buds of May”.
For a full walking guide of a ghost walk around the village, visit www.london-walking-tours.co.uk/free-tours/haunted-pluckley
2. Dungeness
For an eerie, “end-of-the-world” atmosphere, head south to Dungeness. With its wild and stark landscape, this vast shingle desert set in the shadows of two nuclear power stations has captured the imagination of artists for years. Enjoy a walk around the hamlet made up of quirky wooden cabins, driftwood, abandoned fishing boats and two lighthouses. The Britannia Inn is Dungeness’ only pub and offers a vast menu to visitors including its renowned fish and chips. For more information and to book a table, visit www.britanniadungeness.co.uk
3. Hamstreet Woods
An ancient woodland flourishing with wildlife is the perfect place for a walk on the wild side. The home of tawny owls, rare moths and newts, Hamstreet woods is a spectacular nature reserve offering easy trails for young wizards and witches to enjoy. Dens can be created and explored under the canopy of 400-year-old oak trees. Warm up after your adventures at The Cosy Kettle, a local eatery offering treats such as homemade soups, cakes and hot chocolates. For opening times, more information on The Cosy Kettle can be found on their Facebook page.
4. Mote Park
A popular day out in Maidstone is Mote Park where paranormal activities have been reported for many years. Witnesses have seen the ghosts of both a small girl in a white dress and a monk. Adding to the mysteries of this park, are the alleged haunted secret tunnels that lay underneath it. After a spot of ghost hunting, young explorers can enjoy the playgrounds on offer. For those after an adventure at altitude, Mote Park Adventures offers high-rope courses and a climbing-wall as well as mini-golf for those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground. For more information and to make a booking, visit www.moteparkadventure.com
5. Reculver Towers
A stunning family walk with incredible views can be found east of Canterbury around the ruins of St Mary’s Church. The church’s dramatic twin towers date from the third century and legend has it that the cries of infants can be heard around them during stormy nights. With sightings also reported of ghostly monks, galloping horses and guards that disappear into the moonlight, the Reculver Towers offer a spooky setting to spend time this Halloween. Once you have finished exploring the ruins and surrounding country park, why not enjoy the new Oyster Bay cycle trail which leads to Herne Bay’s promenade. More details can be found at www.explorekent.org/activities/oyster-bay-trail
From rugged coastlines to quaint villages, Kent has a vast expanse of scenic and historic highlights to explore. Whether you live locally already or looking to relocate to the area, the team at Sandersons UK are available to help you avoid any horrors when moving home.
Visit www.sandersonsuk.com for properties available now to rent or to buy.