40 Special Places - Celebrating 40 years as an AONB

The Kent Downs is an enchanting landscape, one of drama and intimacy extending from the White Cliffs at Dover to the London and Surrey Borders. Dramatic south facing scarp slopes offer inspirational views across surrounding countryside, towns, estuaries and sea. The ancient landscapes of the secluded dry valleys give a remote feel; the intimacy is to be found amongst the network of tiny, ancient lanes and historic hedgerows. Amongst this nestle distinctive downland villages, isolated farmsteads and churches.
Opportunities abound to explore all corners of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) by foot, cycle or horseback. Don’t forget your wild flower guide for the stunning chalk grassland where rare and beautiful orchids flourish and herbs tantalise the senses!

40 Places in 40 Days

The national significance of the Kent Downs landscape was formally recognised in 1968 when the Kent part of the North Downs was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This designation brought with it protection on a par with that afforded to National Parks. There is much to celebrate, not just the beautiful landscape itself but also the work that has gone into looking after it. Celebrate this and some of the treasures of the Kent Downs through 40 special places.