Trosley Country Park: Woodland Walk and Weald views

Start in the paid Trosley Country Park car park off Waterlow Road, Vigo. This 4 km woodland circuit follows the park’s Woodland Walk, including a stretch of the North Downs Way with views across the Weald. Allow about 1½ hours for an easy pace and pauses at the viewpoints.

From the car park, follow the internal surfaced approach east into Downs Wood. Take the upper woodland path along the northern side of the park, continuing through Great Wood and Butchers Wood. At the eastern end, turn right onto the designated woodland track, then right again onto the North Downs Way. Follow this lower, broadly level path west past the viewpoints and rejoin the approach to the car park and Bluebell Café. Follow the red Woodland Walk waymarkers rather than the blue routes down the steep chalk slopes.

The route stays inside the park without crossing a public road. Most of it uses woodland paths and tracks, with a surfaced approach near the facilities. Expect uneven ground, roots and mud after rain; wear shoes with grip. Cyclists also use parts of the trail, so leave room when passing. This route avoids the steep Downland Trail and its extension. Keep dogs under control and follow any local lead signs.

The café and toilets are by the start; use them during their opening hours. Parking is charged, with cash, card and phone-app payment listed by the council. The car park opens at 9am and closes at 7pm or just after sunset, whichever comes first. Check the gate notice when you arrive and return before it is locked.

Route reference: Kent County Council’s Woodland Walk and Trosley Country Park trail map: https://www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/kent-country-parks/find-a-kent-country-park/trosley-country-park/things-to-do-at-trosley-country-park/walking-trails-at-trosley-country-park