Haysden Country Park — Attraction in Tonbridge and Malling

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Gillingham, Haysden Country Park offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. From the moment you enter its gates, you're greeted by the soothing sounds of nature and the verdant beauty of the surroundings.

The park's sprawling greenery provides ample space for leisurely strolls, picnics, or simply basking in the tranquility of the outdoors. Whether you're walking along the tranquil lakeside paths or exploring the wooded trails, there's a sense of peace and serenity that permeates every corner of the park.

But Haysden Country Park isn't just about passive relaxation; it's also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its expansive lake, visitors can partake in a variety of water-based activities, from boating and fishing to birdwatching along the shoreline. The park's well-maintained facilities make it easy to enjoy these pursuits, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.

For families, the park offers a wealth of opportunities for recreation and play. The spacious fields are perfect for a game of frisbee or football, while the designated play areas provide endless entertainment for little ones. And with ample picnic spots scattered throughout the park, it's the ideal destination for a day of outdoor fun with loved ones.

What truly sets Haysden Country Park apart, however, is its sense of community. Whether you're exchanging pleasantries with fellow walkers along the trails or sharing stories with fellow anglers by the lake, there's a warmth and camaraderie that infuses every interaction. It's a place where strangers become friends and memories are made that last a lifetime.

In conclusion, Haysden Country Park is a hidden gem in the heart of Gillingham, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and community spirit. Whether you're seeking solace in nature or simply looking for a place to unwind with loved ones, this park has something to offer everyone. So pack a picnic, lace up your walking shoes, and escape to Haysden Country Park for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation amidst...

Great to have such a lovely, maintained open space so close to home! It remains the best place to walk my dog off lead in the Tonbridge area and indeed well beyond. Most of the park is very well contained and well away from main roads too. Be aware that the area around Barden Lake may require your dog to be on lead, depending on their temperament around water fowl.

The park is on the flood plain so it very occasionally floods, leaving much of it inaccessible at these times. Bring wellies in anything other than summer if walking further afield then Barden Lake with its pathway. Very nice little cafe with a range of baps, cakes, drinks and treats with outdoor (non heated) seating only next to the main car park.

Lots of different walking loops available taking in Barden Lake, Hayesden Water, the River Medway and the Leigh Flood Barrier. You can also use it as a means to access Tonbridge Sports Ground, Powdermills Lane heading into Leigh or even Penshurst Place. Indeed there is a cycle route running from Tonbridge around the very outside of one side of Barden Lake all the way to Penshurst Place but note the rest of the park, outside of this route, is no cycling. This route benefits from being almost entirely off road with just a small section, that can easily be walked if necessary, as you cross Ensfield Road, just be prepared for a hillock leaving Tonbridge and the hill up to the overlook over Penshurst Place.

Must've walked here hundreds of times and it never gets...

This country park is just outside Tonbridge in Kent. It covers some 65 hectares and includes 2 lakes plus paths that go alongside the river Medway plus woodlands, grasslands and marshland. There are trails to follow with little foot bridges that cross the waterways at various points. You will find seating along the way so you can have a rest or just enjoy the peace. The main car park is a couple of minutes walk from Barden lake which is where you will find the toilets and also an outside cafe. Parking is £2.20 for 4 hours or £5 for the whole day. There are picnic tables at this end of the lake. You will find plenty of water fowl on this lake which I always like, you can walk all the way around on nice wide pathways. Dogs are most welcome and I saw plenty along the way. As you move further out it becomes more peaceful as most people seemed to stay around the Barden lake area. There is also a kids play area near to the main car park too! The walk through to the second lake took me through grassland and woodland and also by the river in parts, I saw a couple of Herons and there were lots of Tweety type birds in the trees which I heard rather than saw. A walk taking in both lakes and the lovely countryside took me a couple of hours, most could have done it quicker than that but I was in no hurry. There are plenty of public footpaths which lead off the paths shown on the map if you have more...