Cycling in Kent

There is no better way to explore the delights of Kent than by bicycle. With its charming countryside and varied coastline, Kent offers cyclists a refreshing and enriching experience both on and off road. Imagine pedalling away on your bikes through the Garden of England: pass the stunning chalk cliffs of the North Downs, discover empty beaches and explore quiet winding lanes and villages. If any more inspiration is needed, remember Kent was home to Stage 1 of the Tour de France in 2007.

Steeped in history and renowned for its picturesque countryside characterised by hop fields, orchards and distinctive oast houses, it is sometimes forgotten that Kent has one of the longest coastlines in the country. Its cycle routes take you along much of this dramatic and varied coastline as well as past castles, ancient churches, historic houses and many splendid and celebrated gardens.

If zesty sea air does it for you check out the 27-mile Viking Coastal Trail linking the lively seaside resorts of Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate, past spectacular chalk cliffs, historic villages - and friendly pubs where you can stop for a snack. A fabulous way of getting out into Kent without too much effort is to take your bike on the train (after 9.30am) to one of the stations on the Viking Coastal Trail. Follow the Trail along the coast for as long as you want, pick up the train again and enjoy a well-earned rest on the way home! 

Or for incredible sea views follow the Chalk and Channel Way along the top of the famous White Cliffs along the National Cycle Route No 2 between Dover and Folkestone.

The largely traffic-free, seven-mile Crab & Winkle Way takes you along parts of the disused ‘Crab and Winkle' railway line and Stop for a picnic along the way or treat yourself in Whitstable to some of the luscious seafood from which the railway took its name. For more traffic-free cycling, ride from the heart of Tonbridge, along the River Medway, out into the countryside towards the glorious buildings of Penshurst Place on the exhilarating Tonbridge Castle to Penshurst Place route.

There are off-road surprises, too: test your skills on the mountain bike tracks and obstacle-strewn North Shore-style freeride area of Bedgebury Pinetum, or opt for the dedicated family trails. Bike hire here includes cycles for the disabled. Bewl Water is another pedal-pushers' paradise, featuring a picturesque 12.5-mile round-reservoir stretch of the legs. Enjoy!
 

Download a copy of these cycling routes in the 'Explore Kent by Bike' brochure - there are routes to suit all abilities. Alternatively check out the Explore Kent website, choose a route that suits or plot your own using the interactive map. You can also browse cycle hire shops in Kent.