Best cycling routes in Kent Downs for scenic rides 

One moment you’re cruising through wildflower meadows, the next you’re riding high above the sea on sweeping chalk cliffs. Round the corner you might stumble on a vineyard, a Norman castle, or a village pub perfect for a refreshing stop. 

 You don’t need to be a seasoned cyclist – just up for exploring. The routes here are peaceful, easy to reach, and full of surprises. Quiet country lanes, gentle hills and big open views make it a joy to ride at your own pace. 

 Whether you’re out for a quick escape or a full day’s adventure, cycling the Kent Downs is all about freedom, fresh air, and discovering something new around every bend. Everyone’s welcome – just bring your curiosity. 

Here are some of the best places to ride in this special landscape. Grab your bike, pick a route and see where it takes you. 

Chalk and Channel Way 

If you’re after big views and salty air, start with the Chalk and Channel Way. This wide, smooth path runs for around 7 miles between Dover and Folkestone right along the top of the White Cliffs. It’s part of National Cycle Route 2 and gives you views in both directions. On one side, the Channel stretches out to the horizon. On the other, rolling green downland unfolds behind you. 

You’ll pass some surprising features, like the Abbot’s Cliff sound mirror. This huge concrete dish once helped detect enemy aircraft. While it’s an interesting landmark, be careful around this area as it sits close to the cliffs’ edge. 

The path is ideal for hybrid and road bikes and feels dramatic in any weather. On a clear day, you might see all the way to France, a reminder of the shared geology and stories that link both sides of the Channel in Cross-Channel Geopark. There are a few climbs and descents, but most riders agree the views are well worth the effort. Dover Priory and Folkestone Central stations sit at either end of the route, making it easy to access by train. 

Great Stour Way  

For something gentle and peaceful, try the Great Stour Way. This 3 miles traffic-free path connects Canterbury with the village of Chartham. It follows the River Stour and passes through marshes, meadows and wooded stretches. The route is mostly flat and fully surfaced, making it perfect for families and anyone looking for a relaxed ride. 

Along the way, you’ll pass spots like Milton Church and an old railway embankment from the former Elham Valley Line. There are benches and a carved picnic table for riverside breaks. 

The route has been designed with access in mind. Cattle grids keep livestock in without stopping your ride, and the kissing gates are wide enough for bikes and mobility scooters. You can start from Canterbury East station and either head back the same way or loop around on quiet country lanes. 

North Downs Way Riders’ Route 

Dreaming of a multi-day cycling adventure? The North Downs Way Riders’ Route covers around 169 miles from Farnham in Surrey to Dover on the Kent coast. It has been specially adapted for bikes, with a mix of bridleways, farm tracks and quiet lanes. 

The ride takes you through both the Kent Downs and Surrey Hills. The Surrey side is more rugged, with forested trails and a few steep climbs. The Kent side is more open, with gentle hills, chalk farmland and wider skies. Most of the route is traffic-free or on quiet country roads. 

Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning natural areas including the North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve, where peaceful ancient woodlands meet wildflower-rich chalk grasslands. You’ll pass castles, cathedrals and some very pretty villages. There are eight castles along the way, three cathedrals and plenty of historic landmarks, from hop gardens to medieval churches. 

The route is also easy to access by train, with stations in places like Guildford, Wye, Canterbury and Dover. Many local pubs and B&Bs are part of the Cycle Friendly Places scheme, which means they offer secure storage, bike tools and a warm welcome. 

Linking Coast and Downs 

This 13-mile circular route gives you a taste of both the marshes and the hills. It starts in the market town of Faversham and climbs through the poplar-lined fruit fields that surround it. This area is known as the Faversham Fruit Belt and is full of orchards, oast houses and signs of Kent’s farming past. 

The route then climbs into Perry Wood, a quiet hilltop woodland that feels like a world away from the coast. At the top, you’ll find a carved stone viewpoint called The Pulpit. It offers sweeping views over the Vale of Kent toward Chartham and beyond. 

The descent back toward Faversham is just as rewarding. Perry Wood has cycle parking and a nearby pub, making it a perfect lunch stop. You can also start from the woodland side if you prefer a hilltop base and a downhill return. The full loop takes 1.5 to 2 hours at a relaxed pace, and Faversham station provides easy access by train. 

Respect, Protect, Enjoy 

• Stay on marked cycling routes to protect the landscape and wildlife 

• Keep dogs under control and close gates behind you 

• Take all litter home to keep paths clean 

• Share paths considerately with walkers, horse riders, and others 

• Check weather and route conditions before heading out 

• Always wear a helmet and use lights or reflective gear  

• Carry basic repair tools to handle minor repairs on the go. 

• Download maps and route guides beforehand to navigate confidently 

• Take your bike on Southeastern trains for easy, sustainable travel across the Kent Downs. 

Hop on and explore – the Kent Downs are calling!