Starting from Elham’s medieval church, you and your dog will soon leave the road behind and join a section of the popular Elham Valley Way.

The route climbs gently into open fields, where you’ll be rewarded with lovely views across the valley – church spires, villages and patchwork farmland stretching out ahead. Well-marked paths lead through pasture and chalk grassland before gradually descending back towards the village.

Some parts of the trail can become quite muddy, especially after rain, and a few of the fields may be ploughed at certain times of year. Sturdy walking boots are recommended, and it’s a good idea to keep dogs under close control, particularly around livestock.

Elham, where the walk begins and ends, has several dog-friendly pubs and places to stay – perfect if you’d like to linger, refuel, and explore more of the area with your four-legged companion.