Coastal Summer Cycling

It’s near the end of summer but it is not quite time to cosy in and settle in at home. It’s still beautiful weather outside, so why not enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the coastal path before the cooler months? Take a look below at some of our top spots to cycle along the coast this year.

Sandwich to Rye

Fit, experienced cyclists could cover the entire 56.5 mile route in a day, but with good rail links along the coast, it is super easy to tackle in stages.

Follow National Routes 1 & 2 all the way down the Kent Coast taking in stunning coastal cliff paths, dedicated sea wall cycle paths and quiet country lanes through the Romney Marsh.

For a rewarding and relatively gentle day out, the 9 mile section from Dover to Deal, which runs along a stunningly scenic coastal cliff path, is perfect too.

Along your route you can stop off at some lovely and quaint cafes such as Mrs Knott’s tearoom at the White Cliffs of Dover, Root in Hythe and The Fig in Rye.

Bike hire

Deal, Deal Prams & Cycles tel: 01304 366080

Deal, Hutchings Cycles tel: 01304 364945

Folkestone, Renhams Cycles tel: 01303 241884

Margate, Ken’s Bikes. Will collect and deliver within a 15 mile radius by arrangement tel: 01843 221422

Rye, Rye Hire. Will collect and deliver within a 15 mile radius by arrangement tel: 01797 223033

Margate to Whitstable

Set off from Margate Main Sands and take a leisurely cycle ride along the picturesque Thanet coast on a flat and comfortable route. From smuggling adventures of old to sampling oysters at sunset on Whitstable’s iconic shingle, you can be sure of an unforgettable coastal summer experience.

Visit the quiet St Mildred’s Bay a perfect seaside oasis. Look out at crystal clear sea views before pedaling into Westgate-on-Sea.  As you continue towards Whitstable, cycle on top of the cliff tops and into Minnis Bay – a Blue Flag awarded beach.

The next stretch takes you towards Reculver. This section is very popular with cyclists of all ages and abilities. Pass through the unusually named Plum Pudding Island. The Reculver Towers are remains of a ruined medieval church, affectionately nicknamed as the ‘Twin Sisters’.

Continue onto Herne Bay and finally set your eyes upon you end destination Whitstable, a pretty and quaint fishing town, full of character around every corner. Wander the little streets, the beautiful seafront or fishing harbour. Try some oysters, eat some ice cream or sip a cool beverage whilst gazing out at the horizon.

Bike hire

Margate, Bikes and Hire tel: 07756 041452

Margate, Ken’s Bikes. Will collect and deliver within a 15 mile radius by arrangement tel: 01843 221422

Whitstable, Kent Cycle Hire. Hire & Drop between two destinations tel: 01227 388058

Viking Coastal Trail

Explore the Viking Coastal Trail to Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate – and circle the spectacular Isle of Thanet by bike.

Whichever section of the 32 mile (51.4 km) Viking Coastal Trail you choose to explore, you are sure to find dramatic scenery and a wealth of local historical gems along the coast.

Divide the trail up into manageable sections and you’ll find a variety of fantastic days out; from winding your way along the coast taking in vibrant seaside towns, to pedaling your way through rural villages and the haunts of Charles Dickens and JMW Turner.

The route is known as the Regional Cycle Network 15 and is well signed throughout with the trail logo and the National Cycle Network.

Margate, Bikes and Hire tel: 07756 041452

Margate, Ken’s Bikes. Will collect and deliver within a 15 mile radius by arrangement tel: 01843 221422

Minnis Bay, VCT Bike Hire  tel: 01843 843309

Ramsgate, Harbour Bikes tel: 01843 585060