Kings Hill Linear Park

Kings Hill Linear Park runs for nearly two miles along an old railway line just outside Maidstone, and it's the kind of place you'll either love or find a bit underwhelming depending on what you're after. The track itself is dead flat - which is either brilliant if you've got young kids on bikes or a bit dull if you're hoping for views and drama. What you do get is woodland either side, plenty of space to let children run about, and the occasional glimpse of Maidstone sprawling below. It's proper useful for a quick walk or cycle, maybe 45 minutes to an hour if you take it slowly and let the kids examine every puddle.

This works well as part of a bigger day out. Gatehouse Wood Country Park sits just three miles away and offers considerably more - woodland trails, open spaces, actual amenities - so you might string them together if you're camping nearby. The Hop Farm is further afield at just over five miles, though reviews suggest it's hit and miss these days.

Where Kings Hill scores is accessibility and zero fuss. No entrance fee, no gates, no pretence. Walkers will find it pleasant enough, though there's nothing to really write home about. Families with small children or cyclists will get more from it than serious hikers. The real draw is how easy it slots into a Maidstone visit without requiring much planning. Go on a dry day though - the path can be muddy in places, and there's not much shelter when the weather turns.