Shorne Woods Country Park - Image 1
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Shorne Woods Country Park

4.6
·2k reviews·Shorne, United Kingdom

A 288-acre country park with woodlands, lakes, and meadows, featuring a visitor centre, cafe, and a brilliant playground.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful walks

CrowdLow
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Shorne Woods Country Park - Image 1

Shorne Woods Country Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful walks

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 288-acre country park with woodlands, lakes, and meadows, featuring a visitor centre, cafe, and a brilliant playground.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A gem in Kent, perfect for a peaceful stroll, family outings, or taking the dog for a walk."

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TIP

🚗 Paid Parking Available

Parking is reasonably priced and can be paid via RingGo, PayByPhone, or ParkBuddy apps. :moneybag:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise

Your furry friends will love exploring the woods and off-lead areas. Plenty of poo bins available! :dog:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Woodland Trails

Woodland Trails

Throughout the park

Wander through ancient trees and vibrant flora on well-marked paths, offering a peaceful escape into nature.

Adventure Playground

Adventure Playground

Near the visitor centre

A fantastic play area with climbing structures and swings, perfect for keeping children entertained for hours.

Picnic Spots

Picnic Spots

Various locations

Numerous picturesque spots with tables and benches, ideal for a relaxing family meal surrounded by nature.

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Planning Your Visit

Arrive Early for Parking

Shorne Woods is a popular spot, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a parking space, as the car park can fill up quickly. Paid parking is available via apps like RingGo or PayByPhone.

Explore Diverse Trails

With 288 acres of woodlands, lakes, and wetlands, Shorne Woods offers numerous marked paths. Choose routes based on your fitness level and interests, from accessible trails to more adventurous woodland exploration.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful walks
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Wood-fired pizza & ice cream
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn weekends
Why
Beautiful fall foliage
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Good Morning from Shorne Woods Country Park in Gravesend. We are today on our spring well-being walk! Lucky with the weather! Nicole would like to let you all know about our events coming up! You can either see these on our social media channels or by contacting Nicole 📲 07593621586. We hope to see you all soon! #bslcommunity #bsl #wellbeing #events
3d_care
60 likes • 2.2K views

🚗 Paid Parking Available

Parking is reasonably priced and can be paid via RingGo, PayByPhone, or ParkBuddy apps. :moneybag:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise

Your furry friends will love exploring the woods and off-lead areas. Plenty of poo bins available! :dog:

Shorne Woods Country Park 🪵🌳 📍 Gravesend Thank you @spendthedaywithusgirls for the reminder of this gem 💎 We’ve only been here once before for a walk when Halle was a baby. We went today and Halle absolutely loved it - there’s so much in the play area, especially climbing 🧗🏻‍♀️ which was great as Halle loves anything like this! Little adventurer 🚲 It’s perfect for a walk in the woods too 🌲 ...
halle_and_freddies_day
24 likes • 820 views
Shorne Woods Country Park, Gravesend ~ A gorgeous walk in some winter sun! Today we headed to @shorne_woods_country_park because it has lots to offer - fantastic scenery, lots of woodlands to explore, wetlands and marshes and the playground. This country park is really big, so if you’re unfamiliar with it make sure you follow the signs on your walk! There are several routes of different length...
kentkids_daysout
54 likes • 4.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Accessible Paths

Many trails are well-maintained and suitable for prams, wheelchairs, and toddlers. :wheelchair:

🍕 Delicious Pizza & Cafe

Enjoy wood-fired pizza and cafe treats. Doggy ice creams are a hit! :pizza:

On Friday, the North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve was officially launched as part of the King’s Series of National Nature Reserves. The day began at Shorne Woods Country Park, where guests were welcomed with coffee, conversations, and press interviews before a series of inspiring speeches from Tony Juniper, Marian Spain, Minister Mary Creagh, and local authority leaders from Kent ...
kentdownsnl
50 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Paid Parking Available

Parking is reasonably priced and can be paid via RingGo, PayByPhone, or ParkBuddy apps. :moneybag:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise

Your furry friends will love exploring the woods and off-lead areas. Plenty of poo bins available! :dog:

🚶‍♀️ Accessible Paths

Many trails are well-maintained and suitable for prams, wheelchairs, and toddlers. :wheelchair:

🍕 Delicious Pizza & Cafe

Enjoy wood-fired pizza and cafe treats. Doggy ice creams are a hit! :pizza:

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Plenty of lovely spots to enjoy your own food if the cafe isn't your preference. :sandwich:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Shorne Woods Country Park is widely praised as a beautiful and well-maintained destination for families, dog owners, and nature lovers. Visitors highlight the diverse walking trails, excellent playground, and pleasant picnic spots. While the park itself receives glowing reviews, some guests have noted less-than-friendly service at the cafe.

"Lovely place to spend the day with your family. Kids and pets friendly. A lot of space for walks along different trails. Brilliant playground. A lot of places suitable for picnic, where some have lots of table - benches.
Strongly recommend!"

Drago Stanchev

"Shorne Woods is my dog’s favorite park! The stunning woodland is perfect for walks, and Ralph loves exploring every corner. There’s also a lovely café and a wood-fired pizza place, which is such a treat in the summer. The park offers paid parking and is wheelchair-friendly, making it accessible for everyone. It’s a popular spot, so make sure to arrive early on busy days to secure a good parking spot.

Visit 2- Sunday

Shorne Woods is an absolute gem, especially for our rescued dogs who loved every moment of it. The park is beautifully maintained, with towering ancient trees and endless trails that let you truly immerse yourself in nature. On a warm Sunday morning, it felt like the perfect escape — peaceful, fresh, and full of life. There’s plenty of open space for dogs to roam and explore safely, and the mix of shaded woods and open fields meant we could enjoy a comfortable walk without worrying about the heat. The atmosphere was welcoming and relaxed, with other dog owners enjoying the beauty of the park too. Shorne Woods is a wonderful spot for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors, and it’s definitely a place we’ll be coming back to again and again."

Pat Souza

"We visited Shorne Woods for a relaxing day out with our dogs, and it was absolutely beautiful. The park is well maintained, full of peaceful trails, lush greenery, and lovely open spaces where our pups had a great time walking and exploring.
The car park is large, with plenty of spaces for disabled visitors, and very reasonably priced (£4.90 for the whole day). You can pay easily using the RingGo, PayByPhone, or ParkBuddy apps, which is super convenient.
It was especially heartwarming to see how well our senior dog managed the walk, she seemed to know the place, almost like she'd been there before in another life! Our younger pup was full of energy and loved the areas where dogs are allowed off lead.
The only downside to our visit was the café experience. Unfortunately, the service was not very friendly. The young staff seemed a bit uninterested and dismissive, which was disappointing. With such a beautiful setting, a warm welcome would make the experience complete.
Still, we truly loved the park itself and would absolutely return, perhaps with a picnic next time!"

Caroline Zentbando

What People Like

Beautiful woodland walks
Fantastic playground
Dog-friendly facilities

What People Dislike

Cafe service can be slow/unfriendly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Shorne Woods Country Park is located in Gravesend, Kent. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage from major roads. For public transport, you can take a train to Gravesend station and then a local bus service or taxi to the park. Reddit

Yes, the park is well-signposted from the A2 and surrounding roads, making it straightforward to locate by car. Instagram

The nearest train station is Gravesend. From there, you would need to arrange onward travel to the park. Reddit

Yes, cycling is a great way to reach the park, and there are often cycle paths that can lead you there, depending on your starting point. Instagram

Yes, there is a large car park available. It is a paid parking facility, with options to pay via various mobile apps like RingGo, PayByPhone, or ParkBuddy. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the park itself is free. However, there is a charge for parking. Reddit

Shorne Woods Country Park is generally open from dawn till dusk, but specific facilities like the visitor centre and cafe may have set operating hours. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

No, you do not need to book tickets in advance as entry to the park is free. Parking fees are paid on arrival. Reddit

Yes, Shorne Woods Country Park often hosts various events, including well-being walks and community gatherings. Check their social media or contact Nicole for event details. TikTok

Yes, the park offers accessible trails and has a large car park with spaces for disabled visitors, making it a wheelchair-friendly destination. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy woodland walks, explore lakes and wetlands, let kids play in the adventure playground, have picnics, and visit the cafe or wood-fired pizza shed. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Shorne Woods has a variety of marked trails, including pram-friendly and toddler-friendly routes, making it ideal for family outings. Instagram+1

Yes, it's a dog lover's paradise! Dogs are welcome, with designated off-lead areas and plenty of woodland to explore. Remember to use the scattered poo bins. InstagramReddit

The park has a visitor centre, cafe, toilets, a large playground, and numerous picnic areas with tables and benches. Reddit

Yes, the wetlands and marshes within the park are excellent for birdwatching, offering a chance to see various species. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a cafe offering refreshments and a wood-fired pizza shed that serves delicious pizzas, especially popular in the summer. They even offer doggy ice creams! Reddit+1

Definitely! There are many designated picnic areas with tables and benches throughout the park, making it a perfect spot for a picnic. Reddit

While specific menus can vary, cafes in country parks often have a selection of sandwiches, snacks, and drinks that cater to various dietary needs. It's best to inquire directly. Reddit

Reviews suggest the wood-fired pizza is very nice and a treat, especially during warmer months. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the picnic areas. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The woodlands offer beautiful light filtering through the trees, especially in autumn. The lakes and wetlands provide opportunities for nature and wildlife photography. Evening walks can capture stunning sunsets. Instagram+1

Yes, with its diverse habitats including woodlands and wetlands, Shorne Woods is a great place to spot and photograph local wildlife, including birds and squirrels. Instagram

Yes, you are welcome to take personal photos of your family enjoying the park facilities. Instagram

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. For commercial photography or filming, it's advisable to check with park management. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant greens of the foliage. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shorne Woods is a top choice for families! The adventure playground is a huge hit, offering plenty of fun for children of all ages. Instagram+1 The park's well-maintained, pram-friendly paths make it easy to navigate with strollers and toddlers, ensuring a stress-free outing. Instagram Don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots, or grab a treat from the cafe or pizza shed. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Your furry companions will adore Shorne Woods! It's a dog-friendly paradise with vast woodlands and open spaces perfect for exploration. InstagramReddit You'll find designated off-lead areas for them to run freely, and plenty of dog waste bins to keep the park tidy. Reddit Even the cafe offers doggy ice cream – a special treat for your four-legged friend! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Accessibility Needs

Shorne Woods is committed to accessibility. The park features accessible trails that are well-maintained and suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Reddit The large car park includes dedicated spaces for disabled visitors, and payment via mobile apps is convenient. Reddit This ensures that everyone can enjoy the beauty of the park comfortably.

🌳 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers

With its diverse habitats, Shorne Woods offers a rich experience for nature lovers. Explore ancient woodlands, tranquil lakes and wetlands, and open meadows, perfect for wildlife spotting and photography. Instagram+1 The park is particularly beautiful during autumn for its foliage and offers opportunities for birdwatching. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Diverse Habitats

Shorne Woods Country Park spans an impressive 288 acres, encompassing a rich tapestry of natural environments. Visitors can wander through ancient woodlands, where towering trees create a canopy that filters sunlight, offering a cool respite on warmer days. These wooded areas are perfect for leisurely strolls and offer a sense of immersion in nature. Instagram+1

Beyond the trees, the park features lakes and wetlands, providing vital habitats for a variety of wildlife. These areas are particularly appealing for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts looking to observe local fauna. The contrast between the dense woodland and the open water creates diverse photographic opportunities and a varied landscape for exploration. Instagram

Meadows and open spaces also dot the park, offering areas for relaxation, play, and picnics. This variety ensures that every visit to Shorne Woods can offer a slightly different experience, catering to a wide range of interests from active exploration to peaceful contemplation. Instagram

Family Fun and Play

Shorne Woods is a fantastic destination for families, with a particular highlight being its well-equipped adventure playground. This area is designed to keep children entertained for hours, featuring climbing frames, swings, and other play structures that cater to various age groups. Instagram+1

The park's pram-friendly and toddler-friendly paths make it incredibly accessible for those with young children. Parents can comfortably navigate the grounds with strollers, allowing even the youngest family members to enjoy the natural surroundings. Instagram This ease of access means families can focus on enjoying their time together without logistical worries.

Numerous picnic spots are scattered throughout the park, many equipped with tables and benches. This makes it easy for families to stop for a meal or snack amidst the beautiful scenery, turning a simple outing into a memorable day trip. Reddit

A Haven for Dog Owners

Shorne Woods Country Park is a true haven for dog owners, consistently praised for its dog-friendly atmosphere. The park offers extensive woodland trails and open spaces where dogs can explore and exercise freely. InstagramReddit

There are designated off-lead areas, allowing dogs to run and play safely, much to the delight of both pets and their owners. The park is also well-equipped with numerous dog waste bins, encouraging responsible pet ownership and keeping the park clean for everyone. Reddit

Beyond the walking opportunities, the wood-fired pizza shed even offers special doggy ice creams, adding an extra treat for canine visitors. This thoughtful inclusion makes Shorne Woods a place where dogs are not just tolerated but genuinely welcomed and catered for. Reddit

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