An introduction to the North Downs Way

Where is it, and how long is the North Downs Way?

The North Downs Way is a National Trail that covers 130 miles (208km) between Farnham and Dover and passes through two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty - the Surrey Hills and the Kent Downs.

How difficult is the North Downs Way?

The North Downs Way is considered one of the easier long-distance National Trails. With distances between 12km and 22km per stage, the route is accessible for most walkers. It is adequately waymarked with arrows bearing an acorn symbol, well-maintained, and checked for obstructions. Plus, a map booklet is also available alongside the guidebook for easy navigation.

How is the North Downs Way different to the South Downs Way?

The North Downs Way National Trail offers the walker a very different experience from that on the South Downs Way. While the South Downs Way challenges with some steepish ascents and descents, the North Downs Way is much more gentle with fewer climbs, and where these are made, the gradients are generally much less demanding. There’s more habitation along the North Downs Way, but surprisingly, you meet far fewer walkers, and most of those you do meet are locals out exercising their dogs or enjoying a circular walk.

And what about the Pilgrims' Way?

The North Downs Way is really the child of the much older Pilgrims’ Way, which runs along the base of the Downs from Winchester to the shrine of St Thomas à Becket at Canterbury. That route dates back to the 12th century and begins in Winchester and ends in Canterbury. The North Downs Way continues to Dover and is now part of the E2 – a major European trail.

Where should you stay?

Along the route, a wide range of accommodations is available, from a handful of campsites, youth hostels, and camping barns (independent hostels) to more frequent private bed and breakfasts (B&Bs), country pubs, and a few high-priced hotels. The National Trail website allows you to download current accommodation details.

What is the best part of walking the North Downs Way?

There’s often a surprise view that stops you in your tracks, but one of the standout moments is seeing the famous white cliffs of Dover plunging to the surf hundreds of feet below the footpath.

What are the stages?

Our guidebook gives a detailed description of the official National Trail route, split into 11 stages with some optional variants. The stages are detailed in the route summary table below.