More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
With our roads less clogged with traffic, and the government encouraging us all to walk and cycle where possible, now's the time to get on your bike and explore the county.
Not sure where to go? We've found five places to ride out and get the miles in, taking in the picturesque scenery, coastal sights and wildlife in their habitats.
1. Explore Sheerness by bike
Kent is a cycling haven and you’ll find everything you need to enjoy life on two wheels with Explore Kent's site here.
Saddle up and explore the island on a bike with Explore Kent's two adventurous cycle routes, the Sheerness Way Cycle Ride and The Isle of Harty Trail, which also take in the chance to venture around Elmley National Reserve and the chance to see some of the island's beautiful beaches, Leysdown Beach, Minster Beach and Sheerness Beach. Click here for more details and the routes to choose from.
2. Folkestone & Hythe
There's a coastal cycling route as well as several quiet traffic-free cycling routes available. You can take in views of Seabrook and West Hythe Dam; uncover a unique military monument, and watch the thriving wildlife flourish in their habitat at the canal. Besides exploring leafy lanes, rolling hills and quaint country villages, you could pass historic Dover Castle venture down to the Folkestone Harbour Arm. Park up and take a walk along the promenade and the Lower Leas Coastal Park. Find the route by clicking here.
3. Tonbridge & Hildenborough
Tonbridge Station is only a few short stops away from Staplehurst, Marden and Headcorn, where you can explore the picturesque Weald offering peaceful walks and idyllic cycle routes combining woodland, agriculture, wildlife and history. Take to the saddle and enjoy a tranquil cycle around the town and maybe even venture on the ancient Tudor Cycle Trail. You could be treated to an almost entirely traffic-free ride from the stunning Tonbridge Castle to Penshurst Place on the family route. Find out more here.
4. Bewl Water, Lamberhurst
The 800-acre site has reopened for walks and rides, although its aqua park won't open until later in June. There is a walking and cycling route around the beautiful reservoir which runs alongside the reservoir for most of the way though there is an inland section on quiet country lanes around Tolhurst. It runs for about 12.5 miles with great views of the High Weald AONB. The area also has plenty of wildlife to spot while out on your ride. Find out more here.
5. Dover and Deal
The annual White Cliffs Walking Festival may have been cancelled but you can still explore the area, following government guidelines on social distancing.There is a National Cycle Route from Dover to Deal, taking in the magnificent white cliffs and spending time savouring Dover's rich maritime history and there are signposted routes which feature either cycling into the town centre and north of the castle or a cliffside path, though they are steep. Find out more from White Cliffs Country here.
