Dust off your bike and come and discover the ¨Chalk and Channel¨ cycle path from Dover to Capel le Fern passing over the iconic white cliffs, on this largely traffic-free route that passes through the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is part of the National Cycle Route 1. We will be stopping off at the cliff top cafe for lunch and taking in the amazing views of the channel, cliffs and the french shoreline in the distance.
The ride there and back is 14.6 miles (roughly 1.5 hours) with two hills at the beginning but then a fairly flat ride. This ride is aimed at people who want to get back on their bike and rebuild their fitness, so at a leisurely pace with stops where needed.
If anyone wants to extend their cycle ride they can join me from St Margaret's at Cliffe Free Car Park, Reach road CT15 6AU at 10am where we will cycle to Dover Priory train station to meet up those arriving by train. This is on a normal road. This adds 8.4 miles to the journey (round trip) and be warned there is one very big hill to climb (though I get off and walk half of it).
Those coming from Canterbury can get the train from Canterbury East at 10.09am arriving at Dover Priory at 10.36am. Bikes possible to take on the train. The return time is only an estimate and will depend on how much time we want to chill out at the cafe.
At the cliff top cafe there is a bike rack and railing to lock your bike to and toilets. Please note that this cafe ONLY ACCEPTS CASH so please come prepared!
Can I urge anyone who has not used their bike for a while to make sure their bike is in road worthy condition before this date so that we don't have people breaking down (emotionally or physically ;) half way through and having a very long walk home!
Please bring with you; water bottle, helmet, bike lock, snacks if needed, cash for cafe, high vis vest (if you have one), waterproof jacket, puncture repair kit and pump.
And please visualise a wonderful sunny day to make sure we have one ;)
Hope to see you there.