Hi and welcome to the footpaths and outdoor pursuits of Kent and Sussex.

Although we don't have the hills of Cumbria or Scotland, we are blessed with the magnificent North and South Downs, which I am sure bring much pleasure to fellow hikers and walkers.

But thehiker.co.uk is not just about walking and hiking. It also explores the great outdoors of Kent and Sussex, portraying what it has to offer to everyone.

Beaches

If you're feeling adventurous, then why not try paragliding? The North and South Downs are a haven for this sport and are great just to watch if you'd rather let gravity do its job.

Travelling east from the Downs above Eastbourne to the beaches of Camber and Broomhill Sands, you can witness the thrilling spectacle of sand kiters and kite surfers. A great place to be when the tide is out and the sun is slowly setting.

Further east still brings you to the vast expanse of shingle at Dengmarsh and Dungeness, with the popular RSPB reserve behind.

Popular spots for beach fishing, something I also enjoy, these wild and windy places are great to explore with a miniature railway, power station and lighthouse for added attractions. Something for everyone and you might even catch your own supper.

Accessible

For those who love the outdoors but are unfortunately a little less mobile, worry not! I shall be seeking out abandoned railway lines, sea front walkways and accessible country paths for you to enjoy.

Parents too will find something a little different to occupy those of us who can be harder to entertain at times. Bombed out church ruins and off road cycling paths, hopefully, will help.

Stately homes and other landmarks of interest will be included in the walks and hikes, plus information on where to see hot air balloons, outdoor events, routes for 4WDs, swimming spots, sailing etc.

Over the coming months, thehiker.co.uk will be bringing the outdoor world of Kent and Sussex to your screens so you can explore the real thing for yourselves.

thehiker: a walking, hiking, trekking, rough camping, mountain biking, canoeing, climbing, abseiling, parachuting, paragliding, photographing, outdoor loving, sea fishing, shoreline exploring, wheelchair pushing, mushroom hunting, wildlife spotting, wine drinking, foreign travelling and not very good at cooking, vagabond.