Stunning cycling treat on North Downs Way Riders’ route

North Downs Way Riders’ Route Photo: Peter Cornish…

The recently improved North Downs Way Riders’ Route, a 153 mile trail passing through stunning and diverse landscapes from Farnham in Surrey to Dover in Kent, following an ancient route used by medieval pilgrims, is launching on 21 November 2022.

The multi-use trail, which first opened in 1978, has benefitted from enhancement works over the last year to make it even more accessible for those on two wheels.

The North Downs Way Riders’ Route has seen a £300,000 investment with improvement works carried out by Kent Downs AONB to improve the quality and accessibility of key rural parts of the trail. Routes that were previously inaccessible for cyclists have been improved to allow enthusiasts to ride the entire way, with new maps and interpretation panels have been created to improve navigation along the trail.

Lovers of the outdoors will now be able to wind through the breath-taking countryside of Kent and Surrey with ease along the linear riders’ route.

The route is mostly traffic free with varying degrees of difficulty for both serious and recreational cyclists to choose from.

Divided into manageable sections

The route can be divided into manageable sections for those short on time or on a family day out. With numerous train stations along the way and great nearby accommodation it’s easy to make a trip of it. Those travelling from London can be immersed in nature in less than an hour by train, perfect for those seeking a quick weekend getaway. On the North Downs Way website there are itineraries and a map allowing visitors to plan their preferred route, along with pit-stops and overnight stays ahead of time.

Peter Morris, the North Downs Way National Trail Manager, commented: ‘Thousands of people love to walk and run along the North Downs Way every month, and we wanted to make it much easier for all the cycling enthusiasts out there too.

‘We recognise the increasing demand for cycling on the North Downs Way and previously, cyclists had to create their own routes, stitching together sections and filling in the gaps between.

‘We developed better routes suited to different needs for those travelling on two wheels, along with creating more routes and itineraries to encourage people to explore more of the trail. Whether you want to challenge yourself across the full trail or want a fun day out on a family friendly section, our Riders’ Route is ready for you.’

The North Downs Way Riders’ Route follows one of only 16 designated National Trails in England and Wales and allows visitors to cycle through the protected landscapes of the Surrey Hills and Kent Downs Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Passing through truly diverse and unique landscapes, the trail follows a chalk ridge that winds over hills and grassland, through valleys and ancient woodland, home to several rare species of orchids and butterflies hard to find anywhere else in the UK.

There’s plenty of cycle friendly places to eat, sleep and drink along the way, with cycle hubs accredited by Cycling UK, showcasing promoted routes and cycle hire options.

Pilgrims Way

As well as being a route for nature lovers, it’s also a firm favourite for history lovers as much of the trail follows the legendary Pilgrims Way, the route pilgrims used when they were travelling from Winchester Cathedral to Canterbury Cathedral. The route also follows the ancient Via Francigena, the cultural pilgrimage route between Canterbury and Rome.

The accessible trail showcases eight castles, three archbishops’ palaces, three cathedrals, award-winning vineyards and breweries, sculpture trails and historic villages with plenty of pubs and cafes for pit-stops on or near to the main route. There are also Neolithic sites, Roman and Napoleonic forts, and WWII fortifications to visit.