Kent’s Green Corridors and Commuter Routes

29th March 2022

There are many reasons to leave your car at home and make manageable journeys by bike or on foot. You’ll save money, stay fit and reduce your impact on the environment. But another reason – and one that’s particularly true at this time of year – is the enjoyment you’ll get from time spent outdoors, noticing the signs of spring and nature.

Studies show that people who start their workday by walking or cycling to work have better concentration and higher productivity. Similarly, children are more focused in school. There are several routes in Kent which are handy commuter routes and also take you through some scenic and relaxing places.

Ashford Green Corridor

The Ashford Green Corridor is made up of parks and green spaces alongside the River Stour that flows through the town. As well as providing peaceful recreational spaces and habitats for wildlife, they also provide a way to get around the town away from busy roads. National Cycle Route 18 runs through the centre of town and the green corridor and then out towards Tenterden in one direction and Canterbury in the other, providing links to many rural villages along the Stour.

Download our Ashford Town Cycling Map

Tudor Cycle Trail

The Tudor Cycle Trail (also known as National Cycle Route 12) is a 6-mile route from Tonbridge Castle to Penshurst Place. It is almost entirely off road, making it a great route for families or anyone who lacks confidence cycling on busy roads. The route takes you from the very centre of Tonbridge, out past Haysden Country Park and beautiful woodland to the magnificent sight of Penshurst Place and the village beyond. Recent improvements to the cycle networks have created an easy link to Powder Mills and Leigh from this route, so residents can commute easily to work or school in Tonbridge.

Download our Tonbridge Town Cycling Map

The Medway Towpath

The Medway Towpath is a 6.3-mile multi-user route following the River Medway from Aylesford to Barming. It is perfect for anyone in the villages along the river to commute quickly into Maidstone by bike, or for a leisurely stroll along the river on a lunch break or shopping trip. It is a tranquil place, brilliant for spotting wildlife, or giving a friendly wave to kayakers on the water. A brand new nature trail has even launched this month created by Maidstone Borough Council – something to try this Easter holiday! Be aware that there are currently some maintenance works on this route and check our webpage for updates on the Medway Towpath.

Download our Maidstone Town Cycling Map

The Crab and Winkle Way

This mostly off-road route links Whitstable to Canterbury, passing through the wonderful Blean RSPB nature reserve and the conifer woodland of Clowes Wood. Once you arrive in Canterbury there is an on-road section of cycle route which goes over the railway crossing, past iconic Westgate Towers and ends near Canterbury West Railway Station. Recent improvements in Canterbury have created further links to Canterbury Christ Church University, the University for the Creative Arts, Canterbury College and Barton Court Grammar school.

Download our Canterbury Town Cycling Map