Step into the great outdoors this autumn
As the nights creep in and the mornings become darker, getting outside can really help improve your physical and mental health.
This time of year for many can feel fairly suffocating as summer ends and the colder seasons begin.
These months can make us want to retreat and almost hibernate. Whilst it's lovely to snuggle inside with your favourite film and blanket, there is a great deal to be said for stepping outside and appreciating nature, even if the chill is in the air.
We felt it more appropriate than ever to compile a list of local walks and cycle routes, so that you can take a break from the business of life, and make some time to take care of your own mental health needs.
Where can I take myself to?
The Great Stour Way walk
It is possible to fully immerse yourself in the Great Stour Way walk. This does also double up as a fantastically relaxing cycle route, and provides a beautiful journey along the River Stour.
With three miles from start to finish, it is very achievable. You can even stop to feed the ducks in Westgate Gardens, which is an enriching place to rest and watch the world go by.
Watch our video below to see a timelapse along the Great Stour Way walk.
Reculver Country Park
There is nothing quite like the fresh sea air to make you feel alive, and that is one of the many reasons why people frequent Reculver Country Park.
With its open grasslands, cliff and shoreline, it is home to a large and diverse collection of plants and wildlife.
Also a Special Protection Area, is also doubles as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, with a 180 degree view of Herne Bay to Margate.
The large park itself means that it's good for families, and you can enjoy a warm drink along the way, with great disabled access and facilities.
It is a true place where an accumulation of different paths collide, so the choice really is yours.
Blean Woods Nature Reserve
If making your way through the mulch of the fallen autumn leaves was more your style, there is always the option to explore the deepening woods of Blean.
This ancient woodland is a wonderful place to go for quite reflection and a mindful experience.
With five trails to explore, the longest of which takes you on an eight-mile wander through mature oaks. You can even spot the odd woodpecker or nightingale along your journey, and shorter walks are available for those who prefer to loop a smaller journey.
The Smarden short
Circling villages in the heart of the county, the Smarden short is a 15km loop that takes you through places including Bethersden, Pluckley, Smarden Short, Wissenden and then back to Bethersden.
There is so much to take in on the cycle route, and plenty of places to stop for a warm drink along the way with various public houses offering a break in your activities.
Where will October, and beyond, take you?
We hope you find some inspiration within our offerings. Kent is a truly marvellous place to explore both on foot and on wheel.
There is something for everyone to enjoy this time of year, that will help both your mind and body.
