Blean Woods National Nature Reserve

One of the UK's largest ancient woodlands, heathland glades, and wildlife trails

Route Overview

Covering over 11 square miles, The Blean is an internationally important ancient forest on Canterbury's doorstep. This circular walk follows well-waymarked RSPB nature reserve trails through towering oak and sweet chestnut coppices, crossing sunny woodland clearings that provide habitat for rare heath fritillary butterflies and red wood ants. It offers tranquil, flat walking immersed in pure nature.

Travel & Getting There from London Victoria

By Train: Take Southeastern High Speed 1 from London St Pancras to Canterbury West (under 1 hour), then take a 7-minute taxi or local bus route 27 to Rough Common. (Station: Canterbury West Station (2 miles), duration: 52 mins (High Speed from St Pancras)).

By Bus: Stagecoach bus 27 or Triangle route connects Canterbury city centre to Rough Common and Blean. (10 mins from Canterbury West)

By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is RSPB Blean Woods Car Park, Rough Common Road (CT2 9DD). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1 hr 15 mins from London Victoria (56 miles via M2 & A2). Drive from London via the A2 and M2, continue past Faversham onto the A2050 towards Canterbury, and follow signs to Rough Common / Blean.

Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs

Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Blean Woods National Nature Reserve trail:

• ☕ The Royal Oak Blean: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ The Goods Shed Canterbury: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ Blean Village Tea Room: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel to Blean Woods National Nature Reserve from London?

Take Southeastern High Speed 1 from London St Pancras to Canterbury West (under 1 hour), then take a 7-minute taxi or local bus route 27 to Rough Common. (Station: Canterbury West Station (2 miles), duration: 52 mins (High Speed from St Pancras)).

Where is the closest car park for Blean Woods National Nature Reserve?

Nearest car park is RSPB Blean Woods Car Park, Rough Common Road (CT2 9DD). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1 hr 15 mins from London Victoria (56 miles via M2 & A2). Drive from London via the A2 and M2, continue past Faversham onto the A2050 towards Canterbury, and follow signs to Rough Common / Blean.

How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?

Blean Woods National Nature Reserve covers 8.2 km (5.1 miles) with an estimated duration of 2 hours, graded as Easy. Starts at Blean Woods Nature Reserve Car Park (Rough Common) and finishes at Blean Woods Nature Reserve Car Park (Rough Common).