Darland Banks Walks & Route Maps

This short Darland Banks walk explores one of Kent’s finest chalk grassland reserves, set on the slopes of the North Downs. The open hillsides offer sweeping views across the Medway Valley and a sense of wild space close to town.

Managed by Kent Wildlife Trust, the reserve is rich in seasonal colour and life - orchids and wild thyme bloom through summer, while butterflies like the chalkhill blue can sometimes be seen drifting over the grass.

It’s a rewarding short walk that combines gentle climbs, big views, and a real taste of the North Downs landscape.

This much longer Darland Banks route combines open chalk downland with the cool shade of some ancient woodland.

Like in the first route, the walk begins across the sweeping slopes of Darland Banks, with wonderful views stretching wide across the Medway Valley.

It then continues further along the Banks to enjoy more views, and then into the calm of Ambley Wood which is a green pocket of oak and hazel that shelters birds and small wildlife.