Cycling
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 a comprehensive map of cycle route please visit the sustrains mapping page
(www.sustrans.org.uk/map).
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.
This webpage was updated on
1/28/2010