Cycling

Discover the best of the Kent countryside by bike, with Ashford and Tenterden offering a fantastic mix of quiet country lanes, scenic trails and charming villages to explore.

Pedal through rolling farmland and orchards within the Kent Downs National Landscape and enjoy traffic-free stretches in both Ashford and Tenterden, or follow routes connecting the historic town of Tenterden with the wider Weald of Kent.

Whether you’re looking for a gentle family ride, a leisurely day in the saddle or a longer countryside adventure, cycling here is a great way to experience the landscapes, local attractions, cafés and welcoming communities at your own pace.

Cycle Routes

Ashford Cycle Map

If you want to get on your bike close to home, we have a wealth of cycle routes that will help you navigate in and around the town centre. Download the Ashford Cycle Map and get started with discovering what’s right on your doorstep.

Wealden Cycle Route

For those seeking a little more adventure, take time to discover the Weald, passing through Tenterden, Bedgebury Forest and picturesque Goudhurst. Ending in Royal Tunbridge Wells this beautiful 42 mile trail explores the countryside and villages to the west of Ashford and the stunning High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty following Cycle Route 18.

Great Stour Way

Alternatively, this time head east from Ashford to Wye and the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and then on to Canterbury along the Great Stour Way.  The part of Cycle Route 18 follows quieter lanes and many surfaced off-road sections forming part of the longer distance Pilgrims Cycle Trail.

Pilgrims Cycle Trail

Connecting Rochester Cathedral to Canterbury Cathedral the Pilgrims Cycle Trail can be picked up from various locations in Ashford.  Heading west through Ashford the route runs through the picturesque villages throughout the Kent Downs AONB.  Lining the route are interpretation boards explaining the landscape and history, spectacular views and traditional local pubs where you can relax.

King’s Wood

King’s Wood is a 15,000-acre forest in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Challock.  Once a royal hunting forest, a large herd of deer still run free in the wood.  Today the forest is littered with sculptures and artworks, but importantly as King’s Wood is so vast it offers a great choice of good cycling trails on the hard forest roads as well as mountain bike trails in the woods.

Willesborough Dykes Foot and Cycle Path

The Willesborough Dykes foot and cycle path is great for local residents and commuters and connects existing cycle and pedestrian routes in Park Farm to Asda, the Ashford Designer Outlet, the station and town centre – great for a leisurely Saturday or Sunday morning ride into town for coffee!

Experience Wye: Woodland Mountain Bike Loop

This 11 mile route packs quite a punch, with some tricky trails and 455m of steep climbs and descents along the way, placing it firmly in the mountain bike category.  It may only explore a small compact area, just east of Wye village, but the trails wiggle around, searching out the more fun and challenging riding, whilst also exploring some beautiful quiet countryside and some wonderful views too.

Experience Wye: Wye Downs (and Ups)

This route link together a fabulous collection of off-road rights of way and quiet country lanes, to provide a lovely exploration of the countryside to the south-east of Wye village.  With stunning far-reaching views from on top of the Wye Downs, to lovely woodland tracks and quiet villages, plus a thrilling descent back off the Downs.

Experience Wye: Chilham

This 15 mile route explores both sides of the River Stour valley. This is a ride that offers some lovely quiet and picturesque riding, along with a great refreshment stop in the gorgeous village of Chilham half-way around the route.

Explore Tenterden

With well-signposted cycle routes and walking routes throughout Tenterden you can walk or cycle to many of the popular destinations in just under 15 minutes! So why not beat the traffic and enjoy some fresh air as you travel around.