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Kent 4 star Council

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Kent Highway Services
Kent County Council
Invicta House
County Hall
Maidstone
Kent ME14 1XX

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Email icon kent.highwayservices @kent.gov.uk

Off-road routes

The Crab and Winkle Line

A 12 kilometre off-road link between Canterbury and Whitstable, along parts of the now disused Crab and Winkle railway line, the first passenger line to be opened in the world.

For further details see our leaflet The Crab and Winkle Way.


Canterbury to Fordwich

A short route of only 2.6 kilometres, it is a pleasant and safe route for all the family. Following the Stour River with places to picnic, a lovely pond and two great pubs at Fordwich.


Bewl Water - (Tel: 01892 890661)

A 21 kilometre off-road route around Bewl Water Reservoir. For details visit the Southern Water website (link opens in a new window).


Thames-Medway Canal

7 kilometres of very flat cycle route through the North Kent Marshes from Higham to Gravesend. There is a bridleway detour to Shornemead Napoleonic Fort.


Bedgebury Forest

There are a number of cycle routes through the Forest. Information is available on arrival at the forest centre.


Dover to Folkestone and Hythe

Using National Cycle Route 2, this route follows the top of the White Cliffs, with fantastic views along the coastline. From the centre of Folkestone, the route is almost totally off-road for a further 10 kilometres to the Royal Military Canal.


Riverside Country Park

Cycling from Otterham Quay to the Strand at Gillingham, this 7 kilometre route follows the coastline through the North Kent Marshes area, famous for its bird life.


Trosley Country Park

This park covers 160 acres of the North Downs near Meopham. Cyclists are permitted to use the main routes through the woodland, if they are prepared to travel slowly and give way to pedestrians. Mountain bikers and other cyclists looking for more adventurous routes should use the bridleway around the perimeter of the park.


Shorne Wood Country Park

This 174 acre park is situated near Cobham, off the A2. There is a safe cycling and horse riding route around the park.


Bluewater

There are 4 kilometres of cycle routes around Bluewater shopping complex, passing peaceful lakes and picnic spots. Bike hire is available at Bluewater and there are cycle racks, lockers and a centre specifically designed for cyclists to lock bikes and take a shower before going shopping. Bluewater is linked to National Cycle Network Route 1.


Samphire Hoe

This new piece of Britain was created from the material dug during the building of the Channel Tunnel. It is situated just off National Cycle Route 2 of the National Cycle Network, between Dover and Folkestone. If you have to travel by car, it is just off the A20. There are three kilometres of cycle routes, some beautiful scenery, interesting wildlife and a small café and toilets.


Penshurst Off-Road Centre (PORC)

This fantastic facility is open all year in Viceroys Wood. There are a number of off-road routes for all levels of ability, from very technical to some great leisure routes. Cycles can also be hired on site. Contact PORC on 01892 870136.


Sittingbourne to Conyer Creek

A beautifully quiet route running for 3 kilometres from Sittingbourne Stadium along the spectacular North Kent Marshes to the delightful village of Conyer.


Faversham to Graveney

A delightful section of National Cycle Route 1, along Faversham Creek to the hamlet of Graveney. The route continues on quiet country lanes to Seasalter and Whitstable. From there you can cycle the 12 kilometre section of National Cycle Route 1 along the Crab and Winkle Way, to Canterbury. There are regular trains back to Faversham from Canterbury.


Note to cyclists:

Please remember that you also have access to all bridleways and byways shown on Ordnance Survey maps. But, when cycling on public rights of way, please give way to walkers and horses.

Copyright Kent County Council 2009