Cycling in the UK isn’t necessarily dangerous and there are beautiful cycle ways around the country. One of them is this big route from London to Whitstable in Kent. Passing the Thames, beautiful country side and in the end you reach the coast in Kent. It is a long route, of 160km. However, there are multiple train stations along the way to make your route shorter. At least you have to reach Rochester, a beautiful castle town in Kent.
In case you want an easier route. Why not check out my cycle journey from King’s Cross to Epping Forest along the canals in London and passing the Walthamstow Wetlands.
London
The first part of the route takes you through Olympic Park, going in the direction of the Thames. Once you reach Woolwich you take the old foot tunnel to the other side. From here you cycle all the way next to the Thames. Enjoying the beautiful views and in the end you reach Erith. Part of the London Loop Walk enjoying more of the rural environments of London.
Gravesend
Gravesend is located in Northwest Kent on the south bank of the river Thames. Its strategic location made it an important harbour place in the old time for the ships going to London. Gravesend also has one of the oldest surviving markets in the country, dating back from 1268.
Upnor Castle
From the side that will enter Upnor Castle, you can’t enjoy its beauty. However you will literally pass this place and the road to the castle entrance is fabulous. It is in the old Medieval style, which will let you go back in time.
Rochester
You might not be able to cycle all the way to Whitstable. But Rochester is already a beautiful spot to visit. The whole ride from London to Rochester is great and the town you will enter here will blow your mind.
Rochester was for many years a favourite of Charles Dickens. And with the old shopping street with its may vintage stores, Rochester Cathedral and Rochester Castle you can imagine why this town is an old town favourite to many. It also has a station on the high speed line which will take you back to London easily if you don’t want to continue your cycle ride.
Whitstable
Before you reach Whitstable, you cycle through some brilliant countryside and in the end you will reach the seaside with some beautiful views.
Whitstable is a fishers town. It is famous for its Oysters and even has its own Oyster festival every year. Besides an old town centre with some lovely independent shops it also has a great sea area with some great restaurants. From restaurants at the harbour where you can freshly caught fish, to a bit further along the coast with Oysters from the famous Oyster Company.
Hopefully you will have such a lovely cycle ride as me, from London to coastal Kent.
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