LOCATION DETAILS

The Kent countryside may not have big hills or much technical riding, but there are some pleasant cycle tracks through woodland and along the coast, which provide some good cross-country riding. There’s also some singletrack to be sni ed out, in Thornden Wood and over the A290 in Rough Common.

GETTING THERE

Head towards the north of Canterbury on the M2/A2 or A28, following signs for the university. Follow Park Wood Road through the campus until you reach the car park at the end. This is OK to use at weekends, but restricted to permit holders only from Monday to Friday. There’s alternative parking around the campus, on the coast and in the car parks around Thornden Wood.

MAPS & BOOKS

OrdnanceSurveyLandranger179: Canterbury&EastKent. MountainBikeRidesin& aroundNorth&SouthDowns by Max Darkins (Rough Ride Guide).

FACILITIES

There’s lots of choice around Canterbury, including a pub in Reculver, when you hit the coast, and lots of options along the shoreline, from Herne Bay to Whitstable – oysters anyone? Bikes are available to rent at Kent Cycle Hire (01227 388058, www.kentcyclehire.com) and there are cycle shops in Canterbury and a Halfords in Herne Bay.