View Point

The View Point near Folkestone is a straightforward nature reserve that does exactly what it says on the tin - gives you somewhere to stand and look at the landscape. It's the kind of place Kent walkers know about but tourists often miss, which is either its strength or weakness depending on what you're after.

You'll find open grassland, the sort of vista that stretches across the Weald if conditions are right, and enough space to actually breathe. The paths are decent underfoot, nothing technical. It works best for people who want a proper walk without needing dramatic scenery or a visitor centre with a cafe - walkers, mainly, or anyone who simply fancies getting out of Folkestone proper for an hour.

Admission appears to be free, which is refreshing. Allow two hours if you're thorough, less if you just want the views and a quick loop. The reserve isn't a destination by itself for most families - kids will get restless after twenty minutes unless they're the type who actually enjoy countryside spotting - but it slots perfectly into a wider park holiday in the area. You're only three miles from Black Horse Farm Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite and not far from Port Lympne Safari Park at 6.2 miles, so it could work as a quiet morning walk before you head somewhere with more to do.

Best visited on clearer days when the view actually justifies the name. On a grey afternoon it's rather generic.