Gastronomic wander through history
3 DAYS | FINE WINING AND DINING | LUXURY ACCOMODATION | MODERATE RIDING | BESPOKE TOUR | FULLY GUIDED AND SUPPORTED
Cycle through history on the network of gravel paths and ancient trackways on this unashamedly luxurious 3-day off-road gastro-history tour exploring Kent, the Garden of England.
Starting in central London, this ‘circular’ tour guides you through Kent’s beautiful North Downs. Visiting historic palaces and cathedrals, staying in the world’s loveliest castle, tasting the best prepared local food, sampling the region’s wines, and not forgetting to enjoy some glorious gravel riding, this is a luxury craving, foodie cyclists’ dream adventure.
Day 1
Drop your luggage and pick up your bike in Central London before we head off to the heart of Kent. Ride past the 800-year-old Knole House through its Deer Park, before coming across the fairy tale Ightham Mote. Lunch on the banks of the River Medway before ending the day staying at the dreamy and stunningly beautiful Leeds Castle.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner overlooking Leeds Castle
Attractions: Knole House, Ightham Mote, Leeds Castle
Distance: 27 miles
Accommodation: Leeds Castle
Day 2
Pick up the ancient Pilgrims Way track as it threads its way through the vineyards flanking the Downs, it’s all too much to miss, so we’ll stop at one for lunch, a wine tasting and a tour.
Thankfully, the afternoon ride is not too long, riding through the shady woods heading towards the famous Pig, a delightfully comfortable gastro hotel that's famous for the best locally sourced food in the county. Be warned, this is a seriously comfortable place to stay, you may never want to leave…
Meals: Breakfast Lunch, wine tasting and Dinner
Attractions: Westwell Vineyard
Distance: 30 miles
Accommodation: The Pig at Bridge
Day 3
It's a short ride into medieval Canterbury for a private tour of the cathedral, famous not only as the murder scene of Thomas Becket but also for its glass windows.
Take the ‘the Crab and Winkle’ bike route to the coast to lunch at Whitstable Oyster Fishery Company, famous for its seafood and oysters. Relax over lunch before catching a late afternoon train back into London.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Attractions: Canterbury Cathedral, Whitstable Beach.
Distance: 15 miles
Bike hire
We can organise the hire of a top-of-the-range Open Gravel bike if required
What's Included
2 nights' accommodation at 5-star hotels oozing local character
Meals, including lunch. Dinner and breakfast are in the hotel restaurants
Wine tasting and private tour of Canterbury cathedral
Bike Hire
Knowledgeable local guide (usually Charlie)
Luggage transfers
Mobile support and mechanic
Standard Train fares where required
What's not included
Flights
Travel Insurance
Gratuities for Hidden Tracks guides and support crew.
Price Guide
All our tours are individually planned to suit your requirements, as described I’d expect this tour to cost approx. £2300 per rider based on a group of 4 cyclists.