In 2005, the RSPB worked with Medway Council to establish the route on the Hoo Peninsula.
The trail takes its name from the RSPB 'Northward Hill Reserve' in High Halstow, which the route passes by.
[5] The trail heads down 'Lower Rochester Road', then down 'Two Gates Hill' to the crossroads hamlet of 'Mockbeggar'.
It then takes 'Main Road Chattenden' to the village of Hoo St Werburgh.
After passing St Margaret church in High Halstow, the Heron trail takes 'Cooling Road' to Bromhey Farm (used by the RSPB).