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Meopham, Faversham and Dover offer just a few of Kent's ideal running spots

It's a new year, which means people are making their 'new year new me' plans and will be reaching for the running shoes.

If you're in need of some inspiration, we've put together a list of seven routes around Kent that might help you stay motivated a little longer.

Although the route is partially through the town centre you do run see marshland views along Faversham Creek
Although the route is partially through the town centre you do run see marshland views along Faversham Creek

Faversham Creek

A 10k run around Faversham will take you along part of the Saxon Shore Way footpath and through the quaint market town, famous for its breweries.

Also taking joggers through various fields, the trail begins at the Standard Quay by Faversham Creek.

One of our reporters, Megan, often runs the track as it is close to her home.

She said: "There are enough concrete paths to make the route suitable for warm and wet weather.

The 10k Faversham circular
The 10k Faversham circular

"However, when doing the more off-road sections you do have to be aware of mud and puddles, especially if it has been a particularly wet week.

"As the Saxon Shore Way footpath is by the marshland and doesn't have any paths you should expect you'll get dirty, I have run on many winter days and returned home with mud up my calves."

There are plenty of routes across the area, but a shorter route, named Faversham circular, starts near Stonebridge Pond, and is only 7.6k.

Megan added: "With quiet roads, flat marshes and beautiful views, running in Faversham is very calming.

"Before following the Couch to 5k app I never would have dreamed of running 10k, but the flat location continues to help me beat my personal records."

The Faversham trail can get muddy in the winter
The Faversham trail can get muddy in the winter

Coldrum Circular

A popular 10.3k run in Meopham is the Coldrum Circular route.

Rated 4.5 stars on AllTrails, a fitness and travel mobile app, the popular route begins at Trosley Country Park, by Vigo Village.

Local democracy reporter, Katie-May Nelson, included the route in her home workout.

She said: "The route is shared with dog walkers and can get muddy, the descent down the Downs was quite treacherous because there were lots of loose rocks.

Signpost for different running routes in Meopham
Signpost for different running routes in Meopham

"Because of this I would recommend maybe walking on that section."

Other parts of the route bring you to tracks suitable for running and cycling.

Katie added: "Parts of the track are steeply downhill and it takes you through fields where the undergrowth can make the track uneven.

"Even if you accidentally go off course, there are signposts all around pointing to various routes used by walkers and cyclists."

Despite the challenges Katie faced, AllTrails, says the route is 'easy' and suitable for children.

Loose rocks on the Coldrum Circular
Loose rocks on the Coldrum Circular

Horton Kirby and St. Peter and St. Paul Circular

Located near Swanley is a 5.3k loop trail that will please any runners hoping to spot lots of wildlife whilst exercising.

AllTrails has labelled the route as easy but Megan suggests it's for the more confident runners.

The route begins at Westminster Fields by the River Darent, and there is a small carpark.

Megan said: "Although it begins on a lovely nature trail the run soon continues onto a main road with no path, so although the route is advertised as being simple for all I'd only commit to the route if you are a confident road runner."

Horton Kirby and St. Peter and St. Paul Circular goes along the River Darent
Horton Kirby and St. Peter and St. Paul Circular goes along the River Darent

The route also moves through the Hundred Year Wood, which was planted to commemorate the centenary of Horton Kirby and South Darenth Parish Council.

Megan finished: "Due to the wooded area the Horton Kirby Circular is definitely one for dryer weather.

"We went on a rainy day and the slippery mud made the run much more difficult than it usually would have been."

Riverside Country Park

Located alongside the River Medway between Gillingham and Rainham, this 5k route is a common hotspot for joggers.

Riverside Country Park in Gillingham
Riverside Country Park in Gillingham

Runners living near the park have described it as pretty flat with good views - although it can be a bit chilly thanks to the river.

A 5k route is able to be completed around the park starting on a path leading away from the carpark by Lower Rainham Road.

The trail is a flat route in a figure of eight along pavements, clearly marked and accessible to all users, it is also suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs.

However, during the summer months, the nature preserve is used by many, including dog walkers and picnickers.

There is a 5k route around Riverside Country Park. Picture: Steve Crispe
There is a 5k route around Riverside Country Park. Picture: Steve Crispe

St Margaret's Bay Circular

Located by the White Cliffs of Dover, this 7.6k loop trail has been branded as good for all skill levels by AllTrails.

Starting at the Pines Garden, its location means the route is usable all year round, and as long as they are kept on a lead, dogs are also allowed on the route.

The route, which is also a popular walk, is family-friendly, however, it is important to take caution around the chalk cliffs.

Those driving to the location can park at the car park at St Margaret's Bay.

The St Margaret's Bay Circular Route. Picture: AllTrails
The St Margaret's Bay Circular Route. Picture: AllTrails

Golden Green and River Medway

Located near Tonbridge, this 6.3k loop trail is another route that is described as suitable for everyone by AllTrails.

The route begins at The Forstal, Hadlow and heads towards the River Medway with lots of scenery and the chance to spot historic remains.

Also used by walkers the trail is pretty flat and adored for its lovely views.

Like a lot of the routes, bad weather can cause some areas to get quite muddy.

The Golden Green and River Medway Route. Picture: AllTrails
The Golden Green and River Medway Route. Picture: AllTrails

Wye and the North Downs Circular

Near Ashford there is a 7.6k loop trail which is perfect for a summer run - so one to keep in the back pocket.

Described as moderate on AllTrails, the route begins close to Wye village.

Following a stretch of the North Downs Way, many runners and walkers alike agree the views are the reason the route is so loved.

Including many areas with climbs and descents, and very few concrete paths, this route is definitely one for the more experienced.

The Wye and the North Downs Circular Route. Picture: AllTrails
The Wye and the North Downs Circular Route. Picture: AllTrails
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