Newgate Scrubs

The woodland at Newgate Scrubs sits just inland from Hythe, a proper tangle of oak and beech that feels miles away from the Kent coast despite being only a few minutes' drive. It's the sort of place locals know about and visitors stumble upon by accident - no visitor centre, no signposts plastered everywhere, just forest tracks that wind through decent-sized trees and occasional open glades. The walks are straightforward enough. Nothing technical, but the ground gets boggy in patches after rain, so decent boots pay their way. Allow a couple of hours if you're not rushing; an hour if you just want to stretch your legs and breathe properly.

This works best for families after a change of scenery and walkers wanting something low-key between the seaside attractions around Hythe and the bigger draws like Port Lympne Safari Park just down the road. Kids won't get bored if they're the type to enjoy spotting wildlife and climbing over fallen logs - it's the kind of place where you might see deer if you're quiet enough. The forest floor is uneven in places, so it's not ideal for pushchairs, but teenagers will have a decent time here. It's free to access, though there's no information board about facilities or best routes, so a quick map check before you go saves frustration.

If you're basing yourself at Hawthorne Trench Campsite or any of the nearby caravan parks, Newgate Scrubs slots in nicely as a morning walk before heading to Port Lympne or into Hythe proper for lunch. It's understated, honest woodland - nothing fancy, just genuinely peaceful.