Shorne Woods Country Park
Shorne Woods Country Park
4.5
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
470 reviews
Excellent
245
Very good
177
Average
28
Poor
7
Terrible
13
Sp218
England, UK57 contributions
Sep 2021
We come to Shorne Park regularly for walks. Parking is reasonable and can be paid through the PayByPhone app. There is a cafe next to the car park which has an ample selection of food and drinks and near the cafe there is a sensory garden.
There are a number of walking routes which are clearly signposted and range from a 10-15 min walk to over an hour. The main orange route is pram friendly but you should be warned that in wet weather it can get very muddy indeed and water can pool over certain sections of the path making it tricky to cross. There is an area with lots of picnic tables and to the right of the car park a big open green area which is flanked by a toddlers playground and a separate playground for older kids.
The park is great to have on your doorstep if you are nearby but I would say that it's not one that you would make a special trip to visit (like Bewl) as it doesn't have sprawling views of the Kent countryside or other features to make it worth a long journey to visit.
There are a number of walking routes which are clearly signposted and range from a 10-15 min walk to over an hour. The main orange route is pram friendly but you should be warned that in wet weather it can get very muddy indeed and water can pool over certain sections of the path making it tricky to cross. There is an area with lots of picnic tables and to the right of the car park a big open green area which is flanked by a toddlers playground and a separate playground for older kids.
The park is great to have on your doorstep if you are nearby but I would say that it's not one that you would make a special trip to visit (like Bewl) as it doesn't have sprawling views of the Kent countryside or other features to make it worth a long journey to visit.
Written September 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Sp218,
Thank you for your kind review, it's highly appreciated and we are glad you enjoyed our country park and all the amenities :)
- Kent Country Parks
Written December 13, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Peter R
Dartford, UK1,099 contributions
Jan 2022
Whether you want to walk the trails in the park or do a more extensive walk outside the park it is a good starting point. There is lots of parking (more if some people would park considerately) but there is a fee for parking which can be paid for via a phone app. There is an onsite café but when we visited on the Sunday it was very busy so we did not bother.
Written February 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Peter,
Thank you for your feedback, we highly appreciate you taking the time to let us know!
kind regards
Written March 9, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
chrisdodd4
London, UK397 contributions
Jul 2020 • Solo
Another place which I’ve driven passed many a time, and thought what does Shorne Woods Country Park have to offer, so we decided to take a look and he is what I found.
Just off the A2, pull in to the car park and first impression well ample parking, so after paying £2 which is the fee for a weekday, and funds go towards the maintenance of the park.
You are greeted by the eco friendly visitor centre,which does house a restaurant and gift shop,but on this occasion we declined to use it, there are many different trails for you to take, so either download the map or take a screen print it will help you just incase you loose your bearings.
We went on the heritage trail, which tells you about the early days how clay fields were used in the 1960s, you visit the vased open space where Randall Manor once stood, then you continue the trail until you get to the knoll, which is a viewpoint,before you take the cardiac path, please take your time no need to rush before entering the Faerie Ring, which is a sculptor circle of carved animals, u can rest your legs after the decline down the hill before you make you way down carriage drive which was used for the Cobham Hall.
After you successfully walk you can see through a gate the roaring cars on the A2, just look before making you way along the tree lined path back towards the visitor centre to complete your walk.
So In summary,this hidden gem will fill up a couple of hours, so grasp this country park sound ya ( sHORNe ),I did and wasn’t left disappointed.
Just off the A2, pull in to the car park and first impression well ample parking, so after paying £2 which is the fee for a weekday, and funds go towards the maintenance of the park.
You are greeted by the eco friendly visitor centre,which does house a restaurant and gift shop,but on this occasion we declined to use it, there are many different trails for you to take, so either download the map or take a screen print it will help you just incase you loose your bearings.
We went on the heritage trail, which tells you about the early days how clay fields were used in the 1960s, you visit the vased open space where Randall Manor once stood, then you continue the trail until you get to the knoll, which is a viewpoint,before you take the cardiac path, please take your time no need to rush before entering the Faerie Ring, which is a sculptor circle of carved animals, u can rest your legs after the decline down the hill before you make you way down carriage drive which was used for the Cobham Hall.
After you successfully walk you can see through a gate the roaring cars on the A2, just look before making you way along the tree lined path back towards the visitor centre to complete your walk.
So In summary,this hidden gem will fill up a couple of hours, so grasp this country park sound ya ( sHORNe ),I did and wasn’t left disappointed.
Written July 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mkaurg
London, UK2 contributions
Apr 2021 • Family
Today was my first visit to Shorne Woods with my two young children; to meet with my parents in an outdoor safe space. Having heard good things about Shorne Woods from friends and family members, I thought this would make for a pleasant experience. I got there and was surprised to discover that this outdoor natural space had a pay and display carpark - albeit inexpensive, in my opinion this is off-putting. I then saw a sign noting that car parking fees are for the upkeep of the woods. During my walk around the woods with my children and parents, I could see signs of woodland neglect. Plenty of overgrowth around the trees and stinging nettle. We then went to the playground for the children to enjoy some time playing. It was okay but could do with a refurbishment. Overall, I would say Shorne Wood looks run down and uncared for. The large car park was full, so plenty of money contributing toward maintenance of the woods but no evidence of upkeep. I think I’ll stick to my local park, Lesnes Abbey Woods, for a far better experience and there’s free parking on weekends and bank holidays!
Written April 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mice
Rochester, UK27 contributions
Sep 2020 • Family
Wonderful park, nice and clean play area.
You can choose which routes you would like to walk, for a quick short walk or a longer walk to take in the scenery.
I like the ice creams stall offering Kelly’s ice cream, it is not often you find this brand of ice cream, and it is reasonable to.
My only criticism is the cost for parking.
It can be costly if you spend the day there. Especially if you have young children who want to play in the park, go for a walk and have something to eat.
However as it is free entry, you do only pay for car park should you not wish to eat at the cafe.
The cafe offers a good selection of food, prices are on the dear side, but what you get is good quality.
You can choose which routes you would like to walk, for a quick short walk or a longer walk to take in the scenery.
I like the ice creams stall offering Kelly’s ice cream, it is not often you find this brand of ice cream, and it is reasonable to.
My only criticism is the cost for parking.
It can be costly if you spend the day there. Especially if you have young children who want to play in the park, go for a walk and have something to eat.
However as it is free entry, you do only pay for car park should you not wish to eat at the cafe.
The cafe offers a good selection of food, prices are on the dear side, but what you get is good quality.
Written October 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
katryn w
2 contributions
Jan 2022 • Friends
katrynw2022
Great woods
But please be careful of the crooked parking enforcement, do not pay cash or dispose of your ticket.
I arrange dog group walks here, the woods are lovely one of the best.
However we will not be returning.
The parking machines are either not working or don't take cards, the park by phone service is impossible and doesn't understand when you speak your details.
I paid cash and displayed ticket, I do not know if I input a wrong digit as no longer have ticket but I paid for full day parking and now have 70 ticket
One of our members also there on the walk whom was behind me in the queue also has had a ticket today and appealed she also paid cash .
Would be interested to hear from others who have experienced same so we can take this further we can’t all be inputting wrong digits of our registrations…
Check you have put the correct registration in and keep your ticket for weeks after your visit . And don’t pay cash pay by another means so you have proof.
Written February 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Kat,
thank you for your feedback,
We are sorry that we have been unable to meet your expectations,
To ensure car parking is paid we have found it essential to enforce our car park charges, allowing our wardens and rangers to spend their time managing the country park.
Euro Car Parks works under strict guidelines set out by KCC and the British Parking Association.
We are able to investigate any circumstances in which there have been errors in vehicle input as well any errors on our behalf through our email at country@kent.gov.uk
kind regards
Written March 9, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Shona T
Kent, UK34 contributions
Apr 2023
The park is very well presented, with lots of amenities and is inclusive with toilets that accommodate people with mobility issues. There is a Waffle Shack unfortunately it was closed when we visited but menu looked lovely. The cafe is clean and airy serving up food, drinks, snacks and childrens food. There is a pond to observe , parks to play in, walks around the woods and a gift shop. All in all a lovely place to visit for everyone.
Written April 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BenLilyTegan
Faversham, UK256 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
I must’ve driven past this place hundreds of times and had no idea it existed until some friends suggested we visit.
There’s a cafe, toilets, ample parking and lots of different trails to choose from.
There is an adventure playground, but that was a bit busy so we dodged it (looks good though).
There are plenty of maps and trail markers, so you can’t get lost.
Parking is £2 all day (£3 all day for Bank Holidays), but you can pay by phone if you don’t have cash on you.
There’s a cafe, toilets, ample parking and lots of different trails to choose from.
There is an adventure playground, but that was a bit busy so we dodged it (looks good though).
There are plenty of maps and trail markers, so you can’t get lost.
Parking is £2 all day (£3 all day for Bank Holidays), but you can pay by phone if you don’t have cash on you.
Written August 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David
1 contribution
Apr 2022 • Family
The park itself was very nice. This 1 star rating is to let you be aware of Euro car park, big scam. I received a parking charge notice almost two weeks later after visiting Shorne Woods. They used ANPR system for entering and leaving the car park but they don't put into account for pay and display user. I purchased and display my ticket clearly on my windscreen, which didn't even matter. I appealed against the charge notice, which they rejected because I didn't have the ticket anymore, like who would keep a ticket especially after two weeks.
Written May 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nett O
14 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
Great for a walk, run or bike ride. 5k, 10k etc trails all marked to make it easier! There's cows also! 🐄
All age groups can enjoy the woods, there is a play area and plenty of space for a picnic in the spring/summer. Even nice to walk around during the autumn and winter months! Fresh air and beautiful location!
All age groups can enjoy the woods, there is a play area and plenty of space for a picnic in the spring/summer. Even nice to walk around during the autumn and winter months! Fresh air and beautiful location!
Written February 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Meggles88
London, UK45 contributions
Is the play park equipped for babies (9 months)?
Elizabeth L
Gravesend, England, United Kingdom17 contributions
I know that the restaurant is but I don’t have children myself so don’t know much more about baby facilities. You can easily push a pram around the walking trails. I’d check the website or call directly for a speedy answer.
explorer588
Rochester, UK1 contribution
Is there an indoor area for winter picnics? Or can you take your own food into the cafe area?
Here & There
England, UK399 contributions
The picnic tables are outside here.
As with most places they don’t allow you to take your own food and drinks into the cafe itself.
paigefisher
Dartford, UK
Are you allowed to feed the ducks?
Klement343
Bromley, UK78 contributions
Unfortunately no
Charlotte P
1 contribution
Are dogs allowed in the café?
Kent_Country_Parks
Maidstone, UK
Many thanks for your question. Dogs are not allowed inside the café (unless they are guide dogs) but there is seating outside with water bowls for the dogs. Please note that all dogs must be kept on a lead around the café area.
Is there still a dog swimming pool here?
Marcus M
Gravesend, UK56 contributions
Yes there is a dog swimming pond there. as you enter take the path left and is signposted., it has a small ramp slipway into the water so the dogs can get in and out easily.
Lynda D
Rochester, UK20 contributions
What is it like for school group visits? Interested in mini beasts especially.
Shorne Woods Country Park - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Shorne Woods Country Park
- Hotels near Shorne Woods Country Park:
- (0.50 mi) The Inn on the Lake
- (1.89 mi) North Downs Barn
- (1.81 mi) Best Western Manor Hotel
- (2.78 mi) Travelodge Gravesend
- (6.53 mi) Kits Coty Glamping
- Restaurants near Shorne Woods Country Park:
- (0.09 mi) Shorne Woods Cafe
- (0.74 mi) The See Ho
- (3.35 mi) Il Padrino
- (2.21 mi) Knowle Country House
- (5.55 mi) Bollywood Buffet