Wealdway, Long-distance hiking path from Thames to Channel in South East England
The Wealdway is a long-distance hiking trail that stretches roughly 130 kilometers from the Thames to the Channel through South East England. The route crosses four distinct hill ranges: the North Downs, Greensand Ridge, Weald and South Downs.
The trail was developed in the 1970s as an organized hiking path to connect the diverse landscapes of the region. It passes near Michelham Priory, a 13th-century Augustine monastery with restored buildings and a working watermill that visitors can explore today.
The path connects traditional English towns like Gravesend, Tonbridge and Royal Tunbridge Wells, each with their own local character and buildings that reflect the area's heritage. Walking through them, you experience how communities have developed and how people continue to live and work in these established places.
Train stations at Gravesend, Tonbridge and Eastbourne provide convenient access to different sections of the route. The trail is easy to break into stages, allowing hikers to plan flexible trips based on their time and fitness level.
Ashdown Forest, the largest remaining open heathland in southern England, sits directly along the path. This open landscape with its special plants and wildlife offers hikers a memorable stretch to walk through.
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