Cycling is a great way to see the Ashford countryside and keep fit at the same time. As Ashford has grown good progress has been made towards a network of cycle routes in recent years.  There are now more attractive cycle routes giving greater access to green spaces and the countryside, with more to come in the future.

For the cyclist there are many quiet country lanes and a series of specially designed circular routes waiting to be discovered. National Cycle Network Route 18 links Tunbridge Wells to Ashford, with Tenterden a convenient mid-way point. Ashford itself is well served with purpose-built cycle routes throughout the town.

The Tourist Information Centre in Ashford stocks a wide range of cycling publications and maps to help you make the most of the stunning countryside. For the novice, why not try the flats of the Romney Marsh with a series of circular rides that give you a gentle introduction to the great outdoors.

You can also pick up a series of Parish Pedals in the borough, the Kent Cycle Map and Bike Rides by Rail in the Stour Valley, as well as an assortment of free leaflets all designed to encourage you to 'get on your bike'. Alternatively why not visit the Explore Kent website where you will find plenty of ideas involving walking and cycling for all.

For more information on travelling round the borough by bike or on foot visit the Best Placed Getting Around webpage.

Go Cycle Kent have provided the following information for cyclists in Ashford:

Ashford boasts some 28 miles of traffic-free paths with the best cycling amlongside the River Stour on National Cycle Route 18.  Perfect for all users including novices, the route meanders throught the heart of Ashford, overcoming roads, railway lines and the M20 with safe crossings and underpasses.  The section through Victoria Park onto Singleton Lakes is ideal for young children and toddlers learning to cycle.

West of Ashford, National Cycle Route 18 passes throught the medieval country town of Tenterden.  There is great 'scenic' cycling close by.  Fit, seasoned cyclists can enjoy a roller-coaster ride on route 18 to the High Weald of Kent, an area of outstanding natural beauty.  Anyone who thinks Kent is flat may reconsider on route to Bedgebury Forest where a traffic-free cyclist's paradise has been created among the trees.  There is a 10km family cycle path, fantastic adventure play apparatus, and 12km of mountain bike trails.  Highly recommended!

Kent County Council's website lists several cycle routes and has a Kent Cycle Guide that can show you excellent routes all around Kent.

• Bike for All has online information on cycling routes, cycle etiquette, health and cycling to school.
• BBC’s cycling routes in Kent
• Cycling proficiency information
• Government Cycle Safety information.
• Our Footpaths and Cycleroutes webpage details information about the maintenance of cycle paths and the cycling strategy
• Sustrans is the UK's leading sustainable transport charity.