Roman Roads and Coal mines
Gravel/CX MTB bikes | 80 km/50 miles | 1050m/3400ft
Date: 18th August
A fascinating ride through Roman history and Kent's coal mining past with stunning views across the channel before striking inland through the valleys and woods of East Kent.
Starting from Activ Cycles in Folkestone, you'll quickly find yourself in White Cliffs country, heading across the cliff tops to Dover. Look right, and with luck, you might glimpse Calais!
Join the old Roman road heading north towards Betteshanger, Tilmanstone, and Shepherdswell, once coal mining centres of the now-defunct Kent Coalfield.
Leave the industrial past behind and journey across the quiet countryside on a labyrinth of bridleways that crisscross the Downs, heading towards the famous Roman Stone Street.
Follow the beach path back into Folkestone, perhaps taking a quick dip to cool off before finishing at the Folkestone Activ Cycles store.
A well-stocked feed station awaits you midway, staffed with an Activ Cycles mechanic to assist with any bike maintenance needs.
Highlights
- A mix of car-free trails, bridleways, and byways seamlessly connected by quiet country lanes.
- Ride through quiet villages, woodland and orchards
- Recharge at the generously stocked feed station at the halfway point.
- Assistance from the expert mechanics at Activ Cycles and the start and midway feed station.
Ride Details
- Date: Saturday 16th August.
- Start and Finish: Activ Cycles, 145 Sandgate Road, Folkstone, Kent, CT20 2DA.
- Start time: 09:00 - Finish closes 18:00
- Distance: 80 km.
- Climb: 1000 m.
- Percentage off-road: 55%.
- Trail surface: Natural, Gravel, Cycle Paths, Single Track.
What is included in the price?
- Coffee to get you going.
- GPX route maps.
- Feed station midway.
- Activ Cycles pre-ride fettling
Is this ride for me?
This is a tough 'Moderate' ride verging on 'Challenging' grade so suitable for those who ride fairly frequently and have some experience riding off-road.
The route is on a mix of bridleways, gravel paths, quiet lanes and some single track, with some steeper climbs, descents, roots and other features.
Suitable for MTB, gravel, cyclocross bikes and off-road e-bikes.
Is my bike OK for this ride?
Suitable for MTB, gravel, cyclocross bikes and off-road e-bikes.