Are you passionate about the great outdoors? Do you know the best beauty spots and historic highlights of the district? Do you like talking to people? Then Gravesham tourism needs you!
We are working in partnership with the Experience programme, which is with Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The programme offers free training for enthusiastic individuals, community groups and tourism businesses interested in offering outdoor tours and walks to the public.
The walk-leader training programme aims to equip people in the district with the skills to safely plan and lead their own outdoor walking experiences so that they can show off the best parts of Gravesham to visitors and residents alike.
Starting 10 November, the training welcomes both individuals interested in becoming outdoor guides for the area, and local businesses that would like to offer bespoke, bookable walking tours and activities to customers.
Cllr Shane Mochrie-Cox, Cabinet Member for Cabinet and Leisure for Gravesham Borough Council said: “Nearly a quarter of the district lies within the Kent Downs AONB, which is a nationally recognised and protected landscape with miles of public foot and cycle paths winding through ancient woodland, vineyards and farms, expansive countryside and historic villages such as Luddesdown and Cobham.
“We want more people to get to explore and enjoy our scenery, wildlife, culture, heritage and – of course – local food and drink, so we’re giving people the skills to promote everything the district has to offer by creating their own walks and tours.”
Rebecca Rees, Business and Tourism Manager for the Kent Downs AONB said: “As so many people flock to Kent to experience the incredible countryside, providing a walking tour can be a great additional offer for visitors, increasing their length of stay and giving more reasons to visit as well as generating a new source of income.
“It could be a literary tour of Dickens’ favourite hot spots, a sunrise walk or showing visitors the wildlife and nature of the area. If you don’t know where to begin, this training will give you the tools you need to plan the perfect experience.”
About the training
The training will comprise a two hour webinar on 10 November, followed up by a practical outdoor session on 28 November to practice your skills. The training, led by Mike Phillips outdoor expert, will include:
- An introduction to the Kent Downs protected landscape and the Gravesham countryside
- Guidance on preparation and route planning
- Information on the Countryside Code and way marking
- How to ensure your group is safe and happy
- Health and Safety and Risk Assessments
- A practical session to help attendees practice their skills and gain confidence.
The training is free but spaces are limited so early booking is essential. Please register by completing the short online form by Monday 7 November so we can confirm your place.
About EXPERIENCE and the Kent Downs AONB
EXPERIENCE is a €23.3 million project co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (€16.1 million ERDF) through Interreg VA France (Channel) England Programme 2014-2020 Interreg VA France (Channel) England Programme 2014-2020 and local authorities including Gravesham Borough Council. It aims to bring 20m visitors to project partner regions in the UK and France including Kent over the next few years. We'll do that by reinventing the way the economy, environment, communities and brands interact - focusing on sustainable, low-impact tourism activities to secure the future resilience of our natural and cultural assets.
Visit Kent and the Kent Downs AONB (with the North Downs Way National Trail) are working together to deliver this exciting investment to improve Kent for visitors and residents making Kent both a great place to live and a great place to visit.
Co-financed by the European Union and the European Regional Development Fund.
