Why you should Pedal and Paddle across Kent this Summer

For those who love the outdoors, there is no better way to experience Kent in just one day than to pedal and paddle. From the architecture, the coast, the river and wildlife to the pub lunches, train journeys and new friends, our new tours have it all. Brought to you as a collaboration between Canoe Wild, Cols Kent Bike Tours and Eurocycle Adventures enabling you to see Kent in a whole new light.

If you’re a tad short on time and read nothing else but John’s thoughts then here’s what he has to say…

★★★★★ “We had a fantastic day with Colin. Starting in the shadow of Canterbury Cathedral before cycling to meet our kayaks at historic Fordwich. We then paddled down the beautiful River Stour, gliding past Heron, Moorhen and Coot before arriving for lunch at Grove Ferry. Refreshed, we were back on the bikes and heading for the coast arriving in Margate in time for tea! A great day and a great adventure.” TripAdvisor

Canterbury > Margate

Up first is the Canterbury to Margate tour, on this city to coast adventure you will experience the stunning Kentish countryside, coast and the River Stour. Your own tour guide will share interesting and fun facts about anything from history, culture, and the wildlife that you see along the way.

Cycling and paddling, the two most, in my opinion, calming and relaxing activities that you can do outdoors. Both activities allow you to take in your surroundings and take a breath of that fresh British air. You will also have the chance to chat to new people along the way and meet like minded people. The River Stour has many unknown stories for example did you know? – the lower part of the river is tidal; its original mouth was on the Wantsum Channel, an important sea route in medieval times.

This tour includes a 2.5-hour paddle from Fordwich to Grove Ferry. You may be lucky enough to encounter beaver activity, moorhens, kingfishers before reaching Grove Ferry where your bikes and belongings will be waiting for you. The Grove Ferry Inn is ideal for a bite to eat before embarking on the rest of your adventure – pedalling to Margate along the beautiful coastline.

Whitstable > Canterbury > Whitstable

If Canterbury to Margate is not for you then don’t worry as we have something else up our sleeves – a Whitstable to Canterbury to Whitstable. This ride simply has it all! On this trail you can expect forest paths and paved tracks, designated paths hugging the coastline and a tranquil paddle down the Stour River. Experiencing the river, once again, you will glide along for an hour’s paddle at the scenic Fordwich Did you know? – Fordwick was an important village to shipping in Roman times after the silting up of the southern entrance to the English Channel. Next, you will be stopping off at the George and Dragon for a quick drink before heading off again for the last stretch to Herne Bay and back along the coast to Whitstable.

Why should you pedal and paddle across Kent this summer you ask? This unique experience provides you through a totally different experience of seeing Kent. Not only will you encounter history, wildlife, and culture, you will have a great time meeting new people, paddling the river that runs throughout our county and find out some great facts that you never knew.

Check out Canoe Wild’s website and/or Cols Kent Bike Tours and Eurocycle Adventures to learn more about these tours and get booked on this summer!

Written by Molly @ Canoe Wild