nature Calls

As part of National Walking Month throughout May, Penshurst Place has restored signs and two walking trails. Once used as a hunting lodge by Henry VIII, Penshurst is a Grade I listed parkland and historic gardens, covering more than 2,500 acres of farmland, woodland and parkland in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The trails – the Parkland Walk and the 4K Riverside Walk – are numbered and colour-coded. The Parkland Walk takes in the deer park and extends along the river valley. It has two routes (4.5km and 6.5km), with breathtaking views over the Weald and passes the Sidney Oak site.

The 4km Riverside Walk strolls along the valleys of the Medway and Eden Rivers.

Ben Thomas, general manager, said he hoped the upgraded guides would encourage new visitors. “I’ve walked the trails many times – the view and the wildlife changes daily,” he said. The footpaths are free to visit and open all year.

A gift shop and coffee shops are also open all year while the house and gardens are open daily until October 29 (Sunday), between 10.30am and 6pm.

penshurstplace.com