New North Downs Way Riders’ Route

Photo credit: Peter Cornish

Discover the North Downs Way National Trail Riders’ Route on either two wheels or four legs. It’s easy to follow, family friendly and above all beautiful and picturesque.

The famous national trail through the Kent Downs and Surrey Hills Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) has undergone enhancement works in the past year to make it more accessible for both keen and amateur cyclists and our equine friends, so there’s never been a better time to tackle the breath-taking route!

The majority of the linear Riders’ Route is traffic free with some sections more challenging than others for those who enjoy big hills, but there’s also plenty of flat paths for a more relaxed ride. You can also split up the sections of the route into manageable chunks for a shorter trip or family days out.

You can immerse yourself in the North Downs’ Way natural beauty in less than a hour by easily hopping off and on the trail with your bike from London and plan to send the night in accommodation for a full weekend experience.

You’ll find accessible trails along ancient routes that pass eight castles, three cathedrals, three archbishops’ palaces, award-winning vineyards and breweries, sculpture trails, chocolate-box villages, and plenty of cosy country pubs and cafés for pit stops.

The North Downs Way Riders’ Route is also available to horse riders. Further consultation work is underway to enhance the route for these audiences in the future. We advise horse riders to assess the routes based on their own requirements and knowledge.

If you want to experience the beauty of the Kent Downs and Surrey Hills, the North Downs Way Riders’ Route is ready when you are!