Aylesford Rail Trail Walk

1 Jan

The Aylesford Rail Trail is a richly varied countryside walk combining riverside paths, wildlife-filled chalk pits, ancient monuments and classic North Downs scenery. Beginning and ending at Aylesford railway station, this circular route is ideal for walkers arriving by train and showcases some of the most historically and environmentally significant landscapes in Mid Kent.

The walk follows the River Medway, climbs onto the North Downs Way, passes prehistoric burial chambers and finishes in woodland at Cobtree Manor Park.

Route at a Glance

Distance: approx. 7 miles (11 km)
Time: 3.5-4.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Route type: Circular (rail-to-rail)
Terrain: Riverside paths, chalk tracks, woodland, fields, steps
Start & finish: Aylesford railway station
Area: Medway Valley and North Downs
Best time to walk: Spring to autumn

Walk Highlights

Riverside walking along the River Medway
Views of the historic Aylesford Priory
Wildlife-rich chalk pits and lakes
Kit's Coty House
Panoramic views across the Medway Valley
Woodland finish at Cobtree Manor Park

Route Description

Riverside Aylesford and the Medway

From Aylesford railway station, the walk quickly reaches the River Medway, where the calm waters and tree-lined banks create a peaceful start. Across the river, the striking medieval buildings of Aylesford Priory dominate the view.

This section is particularly rich in wildlife. Look out for kingfishers darting low over the water, along with great crested grebes, ducks, geese and gulls around the lakes formed from former sand pits.

Culand Pits and Chalk Landscapes

Beyond the river, the route climbs gently through the Lower and Greater Culand Pits, disused chalk quarries that have become valuable habitats for birds, insects and wildflowers. The contrast between industrial history and thriving nature is a defining feature of this walk.

North Downs Way and Kit’s Coty

Joining the North Downs Way, the path climbs steeply before levelling out to reveal expansive views across the Medway Valley. One of the most remarkable sights comes at Kit’s Coty, a Neolithic burial chamber built nearly 6,000 years ago.

This ancient monument sits prominently on the hillside and offers one of the best viewpoints on the route.

Cobtree Manor Park and Woodland Finish

Leaving the North Downs Way, the walk crosses fields and woodland before entering Cobtree Manor Park, once home to Maidstone Zoo. Today, it is a peaceful country park with mature woodland, open grassland and well-maintained paths.

From here, the route loops back towards Aylesford, rejoining the riverside path to return to the station.

Practical Tips

Road crossings: Take care on Pilgrims Way and Blue Bell Hill
Footwear: Some steep chalk paths can be slippery when wet
Wildlife: Bring binoculars for birds along the Medway
Facilities: Cafés and pubs in Aylesford village; toilets at Cobtree Manor Park