Boxing Day walks and runs to take part in across Kent

After one too many Christmas chocolates and a stomach full of turkey, you might need some fresh air and a little exercise this Boxing Day.

If you can lift yourself and your family off the sofa, there are some refreshing walks and runs to partake in.

Enjoy a brisk stroll through the countryside this Boxing Day. Image: iStock

If you want to get out into the Kent countryside and enjoy some truly scenic surroundings, you can take part in the Boxing Day Walk at Ightham Mote.

This National Trust property in Sevenoaks offers a full English breakfast included with your ticket to start the day, followed by an invigorating stroll around the beautiful grounds.

As you stroll through the 14th-century moat grounds, you can enjoy 14 acres of tranquil gardens, including orchards, water features, lakes and woodland, and the ornate historic house.

The walk is expected to last approximately 60 to 90 minutes and the entire event will take place between 8.45am and 11.30am.

Tickets for the walk cost £25 and visitors are advised to dress appropriately as the paths can be uneven and muddy depending on the weather. You can book online here or call 01732 810378.

Historic Ightham Mote opens its doors on Boxing Day for a guided tour of the house and grounds. Image: © National Trust Images / John Miller

Another walk you are welcome to take part in is the Boxing Day Syndale Walk near Faversham.

Give your Christmas roast a chance to head downhill on a pleasant stroll, starting at the train station in the traditional market town of Faversham.

Organized by Boots On Adventures, this walk is one of the group’s most popular routes and takes you through the area surrounding the town, including the enchanting Painter’s Forstal and Syndale.

The group meets at 10:45am and begins the hike, which is approximately 6.2 miles and takes approximately 3.5 hours, passing through forests, orchards and fields and including a break for lunch.

Tickets cost £3.50 per person and can be booked online here, but you will need to bring your own refreshments.

Help your Christmas dinner with a lively Boxing Day run. Image: iStock

Finally, if you’re looking to kick things up a notch, you can always put on your running shoes and hit the Saltwood Boxing Day Run near Hythe.

The annual run returns this Boxing Day, taking participants on a lively three-mile loop of footpaths, fields and trails in and around the area.

Whether you’re in need of a hangover cure or want to get an early start on your January health boost, this off-road track is suitable for beginners and intermediates, so everyone can take part.

The race starts at 12pm on the Saltwood green. Register online here in advance to participate.

Standard registration costs £12 per person.