Hurst Wood and Beech Wood via Stour Valley Walk

Starting near the picturesque village of Kent, England, the Hurst Wood and Beech Wood via Stour Valley Walk is an 8 km (approximately 5 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and diverse wildlife, making it a rewarding experience for hikers.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to the village of Kent, where parking is available near the starting point. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is in Ashford, from where you can take a local bus to the village. The trailhead is conveniently located near the village center, making it easily accessible.

Trail Navigation For navigation, it is highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on track throughout your hike.

Trail Highlights #### Hurst Wood As you begin your hike, you'll first enter Hurst Wood, a serene woodland area known for its dense canopy and rich biodiversity. The trail here is well-marked and relatively flat, making it a gentle start to your journey. Keep an eye out for native bird species and small mammals that inhabit this area. The woodland floor is often carpeted with bluebells in the spring, creating a stunning visual display.

#### Stour Valley Walk Continuing along the trail, you'll join the Stour Valley Walk, a long-distance path that follows the River Stour. This section of the trail offers beautiful river views and the opportunity to spot various waterfowl. The path here is slightly more challenging, with a gradual ascent that adds to the overall elevation gain. The riverbanks are lined with wildflowers, adding a splash of color to your hike.

#### Beech Wood Around the halfway point, you'll enter Beech Wood, another enchanting woodland area. The beech trees here are particularly impressive, with their tall, straight trunks and expansive canopies. This section of the trail is more undulating, with a few steeper inclines that will get your heart rate up. The forest floor is often covered in a thick layer of fallen leaves, creating a soft, cushioned path.

Historical Significance The region around Kent is steeped in history, and this trail is no exception. As you hike, you'll come across several historical landmarks, including ancient boundary markers and remnants of old farmsteads. The Stour Valley itself has been an important trade route since Roman times, and you may even spot some archaeological sites along the way.

Wildlife and Flora The diverse habitats along this trail support a wide range of wildlife. In addition to the birds and small mammals in the woodlands, you might also see deer grazing in the more open areas. The flora is equally varied, with everything from ancient oak trees to delicate wildflowers. Seasonal changes bring different highlights, from spring blossoms to autumn foliage.

Final Stretch As you loop back towards the starting point, the trail descends gently, offering a relaxing end to your hike. The final section takes you through open fields and pastures, where you can enjoy expansive views of the surrounding countryside. This is a great spot to take a break and soak in the natural beauty before completing your loop.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and moderate physical challenge, making it an ideal choice for hikers looking to explore the Kent countryside.