Walk or Cycling? We’ve got you covered
One thing people have been doing plenty of this past year is getting outdoors.
Gone is the association that walking is a hobby of the retired or cycling trips are just for organised clubs; our appreciation of nature and the outdoors during lockdown has seen our countryside full of people escaping the confinements of lockdown.
Howfield Manor Hotel is primely positioned for walkers and cyclists new and old. At the foot of the North Downs Way and close to rail links, we are the perfect base for a day of walking, an overnight stop or weekend cycling trip.
Surrounded by pretty Kent villages, woodlands, the North Downs and only a few miles from the city of Canterbury our location is perfect for walkers and cyclists, from novices to pros.
Feeling Inspired? Here’s some ideas to help your planning:
A ramble with history
Chartham has a huge amount of history, much of which extends further back than the city of Canterbury itself. You can explore areas where Roman battles were fought in the Lost Landscapes Heritage Trail which goes from the village of Chartham itself and takes you via the River Stour with fascinating points of interest. Download the trail guide here.
Chartham North Downs Way Trail
A city stroll
For those who want to incorporate walking into their break, but not be dominated by it, the walk from Howfield Manor to the city of Canterbury is just over 3 miles each way. The surfaced route follows the river stour into the city and is traffic free and surfaced. It will take you past interesting points such as Chartham paper mill and Milton church. Keep your eyes peeled for Kingfishers along this riverside route. Not only will you get your steps in for the day, you’ll also save on parking costs in the city. If you stay late and don’t fancy the walk back, there’s always the nearby train station at Chartham. 3 miles each way – Easy.
Pilgrim’s Rest
Pilgrimages are having a revival and with Canterbury being a pivotal location. Howfield Manor welcomes walkers to stop and rest with us en-route. Modern pilgrims of all ages and beliefs are connected by the desire to take time out of life and get immersed in nature. One of the most popular pilgrimages is the 1800KM trail called the Via Francigena from Canterbury to Rome. But if you’d just like a taster– why not try the Canterbury to Shepherdswell 11-mile route, which is a section of the Via Francigena? It officially starts at the Zero stone at Canterbury Cathedral and passes world heritage sites, finishing at Shepherdswell with a local pub and café. Return to Canterbury/Chartham by train.
Cycling – The Crab and Winkle Way
This 7.5 mile route starts in the city and travels to the harbour town of Whitstable. This is a perfect route for those who want to enjoy a leisurely cycle across the day. It travels via ancient woodlands and follows an old steam railway line. It is well signposted from the city and if you are cycling straight from Howfield, add on 3 miles each way.
Cathedral to Cathedral – the epic one
For cyclists who really want to push their miles the Pilgrims Way from Canterbury to Rochester is a great challenge. Follow in the route of pilgrims along the north downs with pretty villages on the way to the River Medway. 47 miles.
No Bike?
If you car doesn’t fit a bike rack and you don’t want to come via train – don’t worry! You can hire bikes from Kent Cycle Hire with pick-up and drop-offs in Canterbury and Whitstable. They can also give you insider tips on cycling in our beautiful district kentcyclehire.com.
Links
Visit Canterbury – Walking & Cycling Routes
Great Stour way - Explore Kent