Penshurst Place historic gardens and manor house on a sunny day in Kent, UKPenshurst Place historic gardens and manor house on a sunny day in Kent, UK
Penshurst Place gardens, a historic Tudor manor along the circular hiking route near London. A must-see landmark on the Spartans’ countryside adventure.
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Spartans in Castle Country: Penshurst Circular Walk

Looking for a quick escape from London that offers postcard views, rolling hills, and a touch of history? The Penshurst Circular Walk is one of the Spartans’ favourite countryside getaways.

Where is Penshurst?

Penshurst is a charming village in the heart of Kent, about 50 km southeast of London. It's famous for its historic manor house and peaceful countryside — the kind of place that feels straight out of a period drama.

How to get there from London

It's an easy trip. Just take a train from London Charing Cross or London Bridge to Penshurst Station. The journey takes around 50 to 60 minutes. From the station, it’s a 15-minute walk to the village centre where the route begins.

The Walk

  • Name: Penshurst Circular Walk
  • Distance: Approximately 11 km
  • Duration: Around 3.5 hours with breaks
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate (some gentle hills)
  • Max altitude: About 150 metres
  • Route type: Circular
  • Start/End point: Penshurst village

What makes it special?

  • Penshurst Place: A stunning 14th-century manor once home to Henry VIII. You can visit the gardens and estate if you want to mix walking with some Tudor vibes.
  • Scenic views: Rolling meadows, peaceful woods, wooden fences, and that kind of countryside silence that resets your brain.
  • Country pubs: The walk ends with a pint (as it should). We recommend The Leicester Arms right in the village centre.
  • Curiosity: Local legends say there are secret tunnels under the village, connecting the castle to old houses. Nothing confirmed… yet.

Spartan Tips

  • Wear waterproof boots if it's been raining — some areas can be muddy.
  • Bring water and snacks, although you'll find food options at the end.
  • Perfect for beginners who want to try something outside London.
  • If you're feeling energetic, connect to the Eden Valley Walk to extend your adventure.

Why we love it

It’s got it all: easy train access, beautiful scenery, historical charm, and a cold pint waiting at the finish line. As Spartans, we love a route that balances effort with reward — and this one hits the sweet spot.

This article is proudly sponsored by AllTrails.

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