North Downs Way Riders’ Route – Section 3a

Section 3a of the North Downs Way Riders Route offers an easier ride along 10.4 miles of the National Cycle Network no.18 route between Wye and Canterbury.

The famous 153-mile North Downs Way National Trail is now rideable, winding through through the Kent Downs and Surrey Hills Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Quiet and almost entirely traffic free, our Riders’ Route is easy to follow, family friendly and – above all – absolutely beautiful. It can be broken up into easy to manage sections so you have the choice of testing your skills as a cyclist or horse rider on challenging hills, or just enjoying the scenery on a pretty family day out on two wheels or even four legs!

On this section of the route, you’ll start in the city of Canterbury and should take some time to enjoy the beautiful historic city before heading out towards the coast. The route heads southeast along the ancient Via Francigena pilgrimage route that stretches from Canterbury and Rome. Heading through agricultural land and orchards, you’ll spot plenty of pretty village churches and the old heritage railway line on your journey – and keep an eye out for Kent’s famous oast houses, once used for drying local hops for the county’s famous ales.

Head to the North Downs Way Riders' Route itinerary for the route itinerary and travel information.