Kent may be England’s southeastern frontier, but for cyclists it’s more like a gateway to stunning scenery and varied rides. Whether you’re after seaside views, long touring adventures, traffic-free paths, or challenging road loops, Kent delivers. Here are some of the best cycling routes in Kent worth exploring.
1. Viking Coastal Trail — Thanet Seaside Classic
One of the most popular cycling routes in Kent is the Viking Coastal Trail, a roughly 25-mile loop around the Isle of Thanet that hugs the coastline as much as possible.
Why ride it:
- Distance: ~25 miles
- Terrain: Flat to rolling, great for all levels
- Highlights: Reculver’s ancient Roman ruins, Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, and scenic coastal paths.
This trail is largely traffic-free and includes parts of National Cycle Network Route 15, making it excellent for touring bikes, endurance rides or relaxed coastal days. Cafés, historic churches and sandy bays line the way — perfect for coffee, fish-and-chips stops, and photo breaks.
2. Cantii Way – The Ultimate Kent Circular (145 miles)
For riders looking for a multi-day adventure, the Cantii Way is Kent’s brand-new long-distance cycling route, launched by Cycling UK.
Key facts:
- Distance: ~145 miles (234 km)
- Suggested riders: Intermediate to advanced / touring cyclists
- Terrain: Quiet country roads, coastal paths, traffic-free sections near towns
- Route: Begins and ends in Wye near Ashford, looping through Canterbury, Whitstable, Folkestone and Dover.
This circular route combines coastline views, countryside lanes, historic towns, vineyards and quiet backroads, making it perfect for a long weekend or a 3–4 day break. You can also split the ride into shorter stretches using regular railway stations along the way.
3. Route 18 — High Weald and Kent Downs Loop
If you’re after a classic all-day road ride, National Cycle Network Route 18 offers a scenic Kent experience from Canterbury to Royal Tunbridge Wells.
What to expect:
- Distance: ~63 miles (Canterbury → Tunbridge Wells)
- Landscape: Undulating countryside, High Weald AONB, quiet lanes and villages
- Challenge: Some climbs and rolling hills make this great for trained riders.
This route is ideal for cyclists who enjoy rolling terrain and beautiful English countryside — picture patchwork fields, market villages, and quiet country pubs for lunch stops along the way.
4. Kent Coastal Castles Ride — Deal to St Margaret’s
For a short coastal ride with historic flavour, the Kent Coastal Castles Ride from Deal to St Margaret’s At Cliffe is perfect for cruisers and families.
Highlights:
- Easy riding along the seafront and cycle paths
- Views of Deal Castle, Walmer Strand and white cliffs
- Perfect for calm, relaxing cycling with photo opportunities.
This is a great choice for quieter summer rides, picnics by the beach, and exploring charming seaside towns.
5. Crab and Winkle Way — Canterbury to Whitstable
One of Kent’s most loved traffic-free road biking paths is the Crab and Winkle Way, which follows an old railway line.
Quick facts:
- Distance: ~7 miles (one way)
- Style: Mostly flat old railway path
- Best for: Leisure rides, families, mixed-ability groups.
This route is perfect for beginner cyclists and commuters alike, especially if you want a peaceful ride through the countryside to the seaside.
6. Kent Weald Loop — Classic Southern Kent Road Ride
For riders who want a mix of hills, countryside lanes, and social riding, the Kent Weald loop is widely recommended by local cycling guides.
What makes it great:
- Distance: ~40 miles
- Route type: Road bike loop through the Kent Weald
- Features climbs like Toys Hill. A notable climb in the area and scenic woodland views.
This is a more typical club ride loop, perfect for seasoned road cyclists seeking a rewarding day out, with cafes and pubs to refuel along the way.
Other Routes Worth Exploring
Here are a few more excellent ideas for Kent cycling adventures:
- Dover / Kearsney & Alkham route – A shorter 11 mi circular ride with rolling climbs and valley views near Dover.
- Heron Trail – A ~15.5 mi traffic-friendly loop around the Hoo Peninsula with views of both the Medway and Thames estuaries.
- Long Canterbury–Whitstable-Herne Bay Coastal Ride – A scenic coast loop (~59 mi) perfect for a summer challenge with ice cream stops.
- North Downs Way Riders’ Route – For multi-day touring through the Kent Downs AONB and into Surrey — ideal for adventurous cyclists who want scenic variety and history.
Tips for Cycling Kent
Best Time to Ride
Kent is great spring–autumn for best road conditions and views. Coastal fog and winter winds can make rides tougher in winter months.
Navigation
Use apps like Komoot or RideWithGPS to map routes, especially on country lanes where signs might be sparse.
Food & Stops
Most routes pass villages and coastal towns, perfect for café stops, cream teas near Whitstable, or a pint when you finish!
Final Thoughts
From coastal loops like the Viking Coastal Trail to long tours like the Cantii Way, and classic countryside loops. Kent offers something for every cyclist, whether you’re riding for fitness, fun, or touring exploration.
Pick a route that suits your style, add a few local cafés and pubs along the way, and you’re set for some of the best riding England has to offer. Check out the best cycling roads in Northern France here.
