Kent Coast Path: Margate to Whitstable Cycle

From smuggling adventures of old to sampling oysters at sunset on Whitstable’s iconic shingle.

Margate, home to Dreamland theme park and the characterful Old Town which must not be missed. For those of you who are art lovers there is the Turner Contemporary art gallery. There is plenty to explore before even taking to your saddle!

Set off from the bustling Margate Main Sands and take a leisurely cycle ride along the picturesque Thanet coast, taking in some of the Viking Coastal Path along the way. A flat and comfortable coastal route for any level of rider.

Visit the quiet St Mildred’s Bay a perfect seaside oasis. Look out at crystal clear sea views before pedalling into Westgate-on-Sea. A charming Victorian town and an idyllic spot to stop for a freshement on route. As you continue towards Whitstable, cycle on top of the cliff tops and into Minnis Bay – a Blue Flag awarded beach.

The next stretch takes you towards Reculver. This section is very popular with cyclists of all ages and abilities. Pass through the unusually named Plum Pudding Island. The Reculver Towers are remains of a ruined medieval church, affectionately nicknamed as the ‘Twin Sisters’.

Continue onto Herne Bay and finally set your eyes upon you end destination! Whitstable, a pretty and quaint fishing town, full of character around every corner. Wander the little streets, the beautiful seafront or fishing harbour. Try some oysters, eat some ice cream or sip a cool beverage whilst gazing out at the horizon.

Route Overview

The icons below highlight the distance, difficulty and theme of this itinerary.

Distance

25km

Grade

Moderate

Landscape

By Water

Starting Point

Turner Contemporary Gallery

Time

Allow 2 hours

Accessibility

Some Uneven Terrain

Kent Coast Path: Margate to Whitstable Cycle

Every step of the journey has been carefully planned to help you make the most of your walking adventure. Click on the blue tabs below for more information.

Travel

To/from Margate: Margate train station is located approx. 1km away from the Turner Contemporary. You can take your bike on any off-peak Southeastern train service, and a folding bike can be taken at any time.

To/from Whitstable: Whitstable train station is approx. 0.80km from the end point of this route.

Check kentconnected.org for times and services.

Pay and display parking in available in Margate town centre. Ride back the way you came or catch the train back from Whitstable.

 

 

Maps and Guidebooks

Explore Kent has produced a detailed leaflet for this walk, produced in 2021. Available to download or request a hard copy from Explore Kent.

Food & Drink

One of the best things about this route is that there is a huge variety of cafés alonge the seafront in Margate, Westgate-On-Sea, Herne Bay and Whitstable.

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