Guided Nature Tour: Pilgrims Way & Bigbury Fort

If you’re looking to slow down and reconnect with nature in the Kent countryside, this guided walk through Blean Woods offers an inviting mix of wildlife, history, and peaceful forest sounds. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a clear picture of an experience that’s both educational and relaxing.

What makes this walk stand out? First, it’s led by a passionate guide, Greg, who shares insightful stories about the area’s Iron Age past and its current wildlife. Second, it’s designed to be accessible for most, offering opportunities to learn plant and mushroom identification, as well as practicing shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. Third, the price—around $20—offers great value for a two-hour tour in such a peaceful setting. The only potential consideration? It’s not suitable for very young children, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users, which makes sense given the moderate walking involved.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and storytelling. Nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and families with older children will find it particularly rewarding. Let’s explore in detail what you can expect from this well-rounded woodland experience.

Good To Know

• Knowledgeable guides who share stories about local history and wildlife
• Focus on plant and mushroom identification enhances appreciation of nature
• Forest bathing practice reduces stress and promotes relaxation
• Visit Iron Age hill fort and traditional orchard for cultural insights
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation, great for planning
• Limited suitability for very young children or those with mobility challenges

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting Point: Chatham Hatch Village Hall

Your journey begins at Chatham Hatch Village Hall, where free parking makes it easy to start without stress. Greg typically arrives at least ten minutes early, dressed in wellies or sturdy footwear—an important detail, as the terrain can be muddy, especially if the weather’s been damp. From here, the walk sets off along the Pilgrim’s Way, a historic footpath that has seen centuries of travelers and pilgrims pass through.

Walking the Pilgrim’s Way and Beyond

The route takes you through Blean Woods, a semi-ancient woodland that’s both alive with sounds and layered with history. This part of the walk, about 45 minutes to Bigbury Camp Hillfort, is where most of the learning happens. Greg shares stories of Kent’s Iron Age past, explaining how sites like Bigbury Camp served as strategic hill forts, and why the area was a contested space between Britons and Romans.

Reviewers often highlight how Greg’s storytelling brings the landscape to life. Harry mentions, “It was refreshing to slow down and take it all in,” which is exactly what this tour promotes—a chance to notice small details, from the texture of tree bark to the flight of a buzzard overhead.

Learning to Identify Mushrooms, Plants, and Birds

A standout feature is the focus on identification. Guides provide printed or shared identification guides for mushrooms and invertebrates, helping you learn what to look for in the wild. We all know how easy it is to walk past fungi or birdlife without a second thought, but Greg encourages awareness, pointing out jays, woodpeckers, and other species during the walk.

Kim, in her review, appreciated how Greg made the experience engaging for her 12-year-old daughter by involving her in spotting and naming different plants and trees. This hands-on approach makes the learning accessible and fun, especially for those new to wildlife identification.

Practicing Shinrin-yoku: Forest Bathing in Action

One of the tour’s special touches is shinrin-yoku or forest bathing, a Japanese practice aimed at reducing stress through mindful immersion in nature. During a calm tea or coffee break, you’ll have the chance to breathe deeply, listen to the woodland’s symphony, and just be present.

Ryan mentions that Greg’s passion for the wildlife and his ability to explain it all made the experience feel genuinely enriching. The break with views over the woodland offers a perfect moment to relax, observe the birdlife, and reawaken your senses.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring No Man’s Orchard and Its Significance

After the woodland walk, the tour leads you through No Man’s Orchard, a traditional orchard now designated as a nature reserve. The orchard serves as a reminder of Kent’s agricultural past and offers another opportunity to spot wildlife. You might see different bird species or insects that thrive in this habitat, adding to the sense that this is a living, breathing landscape.

The End of the Tour & Practicalities

The tour wraps up back at Chatham Hatch Village Hall after approximately two hours. The entire experience is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later—ideal if your schedule is uncertain or weather-dependent.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At around $20 per person, this tour offers remarkable value for its length and depth of content. The guided nature walk not only provides entertainment but also educates, making it suitable for those who want a meaningful outdoor experience without a long day’s commitment.

The only notable limitation is transportation—visitors need to arrange their own travel to and from Chatham Hatch. Also, given the walking terrain and weather considerations, sturdy shoes or wellies are highly recommended. There are no public toilets available during the tour, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This walk is especially perfect for nature lovers who enjoy learning about local flora and fauna in a relaxed setting. Families with children over 5 will find it engaging, especially since kids can participate in spotting wildlife and identifying plants. It’s also well-suited for anyone interested in the history of Kent’s Iron Age sites, as well as those seeking a calming forest bathing experience.

This guided walk offers a rare combination of educational content, natural beauty, and cultural history—all in a manageable two-hour format. Led by a passionate and knowledgeable guide like Greg, you’ll leave with new insights and a refreshed mind. The focus on plant and mushroom identification enhances your appreciation of the woodland’s biodiversity, making it more than just a walk—it’s a learning adventure.

The experience’s emphasis on slow-paced exploration and mindful practices makes it especially appealing for travelers craving genuine relaxation amid nature. The small group size and flexible booking options add to its appeal, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful, personalized outing.

If you’re visiting Kent and love outdoor activities that feed both the mind and soul, this tour is a fantastic, affordable way to spend part of your day.

How long does the tour last?
The guided walk takes approximately two hours, including stops for breaks and wildlife viewing.

Is transportation to the meeting point provided?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to Chatham Hatch Village Hall, where parking is free.

What should I wear for the walk?
Comfortable shoes are essential, preferably wellies or sturdy hiking boots, especially in wet weather. Dress for the weather, as the tour is outdoors and weather-dependent.

Can children join the tour?
Yes, children over 5 years old are generally suitable. However, the walk involves moderate activity, so younger children or those with mobility issues may find it less suitable.

Will I see specific wildlife?
While seeing specific species isn’t guaranteed, the guide points out common birds like jays and buzzards and highlights notable flora and fungi as they occur.

Are there any facilities along the route?
There are no public toilets during the tour, so plan accordingly and bring water and snacks.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, the walk involves moderate terrain and is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility for your plans.

This guided walk through Blean Woods offers a balanced blend of nature, history, and mindfulness—all led by a guide who genuinely knows his stuff. It’s a great choice for travelers looking to slow down and learn in a beautiful setting, especially if they’re interested in wildlife identification and the story of Kent’s ancient past.

While it’s not a strenuous hike or a large-group tour, its intimate, educational approach makes it a memorable outing. Whether you’re visiting Kent for a brief escape or a nature-focused day, this experience can deepen your appreciation for the natural world and history woven into the landscape.

If you’re seeking a peaceful, informative walk that feeds your curiosity and senses, this tour is a highly recommended option. Just remember to wear suitable footwear, bring your curiosity, and get ready to enjoy Kent’s captivating woodland environment.

Note: Price and availability are subject to change. Always check the booking site for the latest details before planning your visit.

You can check if your dates are available here: