toptips
Active Cycling
Across the Canterbury district there is a cycle route for all tastes, whether it be rural, coastal or urban and along the way there are beautiful views and historical sights for the whole family to enjoy.
If you are looking to hire or buy a new bike, the district has a large selection of shops to choose from.
The Kent Countryside deserves to be explored but if your looking to get from "a to b" on two wheels then here are a number of popular cycle routes. The link below includes family friendly cycle routes and downloadable maps produced by Spokes East Kent Cycle Campaign Group.
If you have any cycle rides that you would like to share then please let us know via the contact us page or go to the Family friendly Cycle Maps above and upload your routes using Map My Run.
Learn to Cycle
If you are keen to learn how to ride a bike but don't know where to start, there are a couple of local Cycling Instructors that may be able to help:
London to Canterbury Cycle Ride- Sunday 12 September
The route will take you from Greenwich, following the picturesque Pilgrim's Way through the Kent countryside, finishing in the historical city of Canterbury at St Augustine's Abbey. Riders can choose to cycle either a 65 or 60 mile route, individually or as a team, depending on how energetic you feel!
Cost to enter is £25 for an individual entry, £110 for a team of 5 and £215 for a team of 10.
Viking Bike Ride- Sunday 17 October 2010
What a better way to spend a Sunday in Autumn, that to get out in the fresh air and get your own heart healthy whilst saving lives. Come on your own, or with family, friends or colleagues and have fun on this lovely ride!
The Viking Bike Ride follows the Viking Coastal Trail between Ramsgate, Broadstairs, Margate and Reculver. You can choose the distance you ride! Registering before the day will cost £10 for adults and £5 for children.
For more information visit www.bhf.org.uk/vikingbikeride or download an entry form now!
Benefits to your Health
- According to the British Heart Foundation, cycling ar least 20 miles per week reduces the risk of coronary heart disease to less than half that for non-cyclists.
- It is claimed that cycling raises the speed of your metabolism for hours afterwards, so your body continues to burn calories even after exercise.
- Even if you cycle only a few miles per day, your muscles will gain the benefit, usually becoming trimmer and more toned.
- Your psychological well-being will be enhanced, a long leisurely cycle ride along the coast or through other scenic terrain can definitely help reduce stress.
- Cycling also reduces pollutants in the air which are a threat to health.
Benefits to the Environment
- Cycling helps reduce carbon emissions which scientists believe contribute to global warming.
- A bike journey can help reduce noise and pollution as well as protect green spaces, monuments and buildings from the adverse effects of pollution.
- Cycling can also help to reduce traffic congestion and the economic cost of traffic delay.
- To make a bicycle requires only a fraction of the materials and energy needed to make a car.
- Twenty bicycles can be parked in the same space taken up by one car.
Find routes and maps of local cycle rides
Find routes and maps of local walks
Active Canterbury is organised and managed by Canterbury City Council and NHS Eastern and Coastal