Scotney Castle Parkland and River Bewl Circuit

Start at the main car park's pedestrian exit beside Scotney's visitor buildings. This parkland circuit follows the National Trust's blue-post trail across grassy fields, with views towards the old castle and Victorian house. Allow around an hour and a half for the hills and stops.

Follow the visitor lane to the white Salvin Gate, watching for estate traffic. Take the old carriageway downhill over the Sweetbourne and River Bewl bridges. At the fingerpost, turn left and follow the blue-topped posts over the fields and along the woodland edge. Cross the next footbridge, then climb the field beside the hedge to the estate lane. Turn left for roughly 100 metres before taking the stile into the field on the right. Follow the hedge and blue posts past the bomb-crater area, descend to the field corner and turn left onto the old entrance track. Return along the visitor lane into the main car park.

There are moderate hills, uneven grass, bridge steps and stiles. Wear shoes with grip; wet fields can be muddy and slippery. Keep dogs on leads around grazing livestock and throughout the estate as signed.

Book parking in advance to guarantee entry, including if you are a National Trust member. Non-members pay for parking; check current admission requirements for house or garden visits. The tea-room and toilets are nearby. Check seasonal gates and finish well before closing. Castle scaffolding and restricted access are advertised until mid-October 2026; follow any temporary diversions.

Based on the National Trust's Parkland Trail, returning through the main visitor car park. Full route map and current visitor notices checked on 3 October 2026.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/scotney-castle/scotney-parkland-trail