insideKENT Magazine Issue 24 - March 2014 | Page 102
DAYSOUT
pedal power
DISCOVER KENT BY BICYCLE
There is no better way to get out and about and
explore Kent than on a bicycle, whereby you can
discover charming countryside and quaint villages,
while passing alongside hop fields, orchards and
distinctive oast houses. Alternatively, travel along
one of the most famous coastlines in the country
with its dramatic and varied scenery, from
spectacular cliff tops to open marshes.
For those of you who enjoy country lanes,
charming Kentish countryside and exciting places
to stop, take on the Wealden Cycle Trail that
runs from Royal Tunbridge Wells through to
Ashford. This undulating route is an ideal way to
discover the quintessential scenery of the Garden
of England.
If the weather begins to turn, why not plan a
shorter route and take in some of the sights
around the trail, such as Sissinghurst Castle and
Biddenden Vineyards? Great traffic-free sections
combined with top spots for stopping and simply
admiring the view all help to make this means of
exercise that little bit easier. Much more than a
traditional country pub, The Three Chimneys Inn
at Biddenden provides the perfect pit-stop to
relax and warm up by the cosy log fire, complete
with hanging hops and oak beams.
Further up the trail, the National Pinetum at
Bedgebury offers a world-class collection of
dramatic conifers and a beautiful setting for a
traffic-free country cycle. The 2000-acre forest
offers miles of family cycling, mountain biking,
riding and walking.
Just outside the Pinetum, in nearby Cranbrook,
achy legs can take a well-earned rest at The
George Hotel and Brasserie. With its rich history
(dating back to Queen Elizabeth I) and warm
welcome, you can rejuvenate with a fine selection
of local food and ales from Shepherd Neame.
For those who love to take in the fresh sea air
on a crisp day, head over to Crab and Winkle
Way, a 12-kilometre route that runs direct from
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Canterbury to the charming seaside village of
Whitstable. Along the way, you will travel through
the delightful village of Blean, with its acres of
ancient woodland and RSPB nature reserve,
dotted with the early signs of spring. The route
gradually descends towards the sea, whereby
you can stop at the beautiful Marine Hotel, offering
fresh seafood and dramatic views across the bay
– the perfect spot to warm up and restore your
energy before heading back out on your bike.
With plenty of off-road and traffic-free cycling
options available across the county, as well as
a whole host of attractions and accommodation
conveniently dotted along the routes, Kent really
is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-spring cycling
break.
So ditch that car, dust off your bike and head for
the open road. It’s amazing what you’ll discover
on two wheels…