The best gravel rides around Larkeyvalley Wood
4.4
(14)
71
riders
5
rides
Gravel biking around Larkeyvalley Wood features varied terrain, including uneven trails, un-surfaced paths, and narrow pathways suitable for gravel bikes. The area is characterized by ancient woodland with diverse soils, offering a mix of well-kept gravel trails and bumpier farm tracks. Riders can expect varied surfaces, including some punchy climbs and winding descents, providing an engaging experience. The woodland's rich biodiversity and natural features, such as wildflowers and diverse habitats, contribute to the scenic quality of the routes.
Best gravel bike trails around Larkeyvalley Wood
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Crab and Winkle Way – Crab and Winkle Way Signpost loop from University of Kent, an easy 6.7 miles (10.7 km) trail that takes 45 minutes to complete. This route offers a gentle ride through varied landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Westgate Towers – Chilham Square loop from Canterbury West, a moderate 24.6 miles (39.6 km) path. This route includes sustained climbs and descents through the surrounding countryside.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Lyminge Forest – View from Wye Downs loop from Canterbury West, a 36.3 miles (58.5 km) trail leading through forests and offering expansive views, often completed in about 3 hours 45 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Larkeyvalley Wood is defined by ancient woodlands, diverse soils, and varied un-surfaced trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in Larkeyvalley Wood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 25 reviews. More than 125 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Larkeyvalley Wood's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
5.0
(8)
26
riders
39.6km
02:17
360m
360m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
58.5km
03:44
540m
540m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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3.0
(1)
9
riders
27.6km
01:39
180m
180m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
23
riders
34.4km
01:54
180m
180m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lovely stretch of dead straight gravel. I've yet to see any of the bison!
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St. Martin's is the oldest church in the English-speaking world and is referred to as the mother church of Canterbury Cathedral. The chancel is the oldest part of the church, with Roman brickwork, and may therefore date from the Roman era or have been built in the mid-6th century from salvaged bricks. The church was gifted in the late 6th century by the pagan King Ethelbert of Kent to his French bride Bertha, who was a Christian, as a place of worship. In 595, Pope Gregory sent Augustine and a group of monks to evangelize the population of England. Upon Augustine's arrival in 597, Ethelbert allowed them to worship in St. Martin's. Soon after, Ethelbert was baptized a Christian here by Augustine. Augustine established his mission at St. Martin's before founding the first St. Augustine's Abbey and Canterbury Cathedral.
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Well worth the minor detour off the surrounding cycle routes to see the picturesque square, with views of the Castle, plus the excellent White Horse pub and an excellent tearoom.
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Nice views but pick your days - summer is too busy with bathers and dog walkers, nice when its quiet though
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Very Easy ride although some bits are a bit bumpy but mostly excellent surface, pick schooldays and early morning to avoid too many dog walkers. Can get a bit breezy though!
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One of a total of 1,000 beautifully designed waymarkers on the National Cycle Network trails. Design titled "Fossil Tree" (by Jon Mills).
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Larkeyvalley Wood?
There are 10 gravel bike routes documented around Larkeyvalley Wood on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails in Larkeyvalley Wood?
The trails around Larkeyvalley Wood feature varied terrain, including uneven trails, un-surfaced paths, and narrow pathways. You'll encounter a mix of well-kept gravel trails and bumpier farm tracks, which can be rooty or rutted depending on weather conditions. Some routes also include punchy climbs and winding descents, providing an engaging ride.
Are there any easy gravel routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are easy routes available. For a gentle ride, consider the Crab and Winkle Way – Crab and Winkle Way Signpost loop from University of Kent. This 10.7 km trail is mostly flat and can be completed in about 45 minutes, making it ideal for those new to gravel biking or looking for a relaxed outing.
What are the more challenging gravel biking options in the area?
For a more challenging experience, the Lyminge Forest – View from Wye Downs loop from Canterbury West is a difficult 58.5 km trail with significant elevation gain, often taking around 3 hours 45 minutes to complete. It leads through forests and offers expansive views.
What natural features or wildlife can I see while gravel biking in Larkeyvalley Wood?
Larkeyvalley Wood is an ancient woodland with diverse soils, supporting rich ground flora. From March to May, you can expect spectacular displays of wildflowers, including various orchid species. The woodland's management also benefits a wide range of plants, insects, birds like tree pipits and hawfinches, and even dormice, adding to the natural appeal of your ride.
Is Larkeyvalley Wood suitable for other outdoor activities besides gravel biking?
Absolutely. Larkeyvalley Wood is an excellent destination for hiking and walking, offering a variety of trails for different fitness levels. There are also three new signed walkways with way markers and information boards to aid navigation, making it a tranquil location for exploring nature on foot.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails around Larkeyvalley Wood?
The routes around Larkeyvalley Wood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 25 reviews. Many riders praise the varied terrain, the beauty of the ancient woodlands, and the engaging mix of well-kept paths and more challenging farm tracks.
Are there any moderate-difficulty gravel routes for experienced riders looking for a longer trip?
Yes, a popular moderate option is the Westgate Towers – Chilham Square loop from Canterbury West. This 39.6 km path includes sustained climbs and descents through the surrounding countryside and typically takes around 2 hours 18 minutes to complete.
Can I find routes that offer scenic views or points of interest?
Many routes in the area provide scenic experiences. For example, the Crab and Winkle Way – View of the North Sea loop from University of Kent offers coastal vistas as part of its 34.4 km journey. The Lyminge Forest loop also provides expansive views from Wye Downs.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Larkeyvalley Wood?
While gravel biking is enjoyable year-round, the period from March to May is particularly special due to the spectacular displays of wildflowers in the ancient woodland. However, be mindful that bumpier farm tracks can become rooty or rutted, especially after wet weather.
Is Larkeyvalley Wood publicly accessible for cycling?
Yes, Larkeyvalley Wood is owned and managed by Canterbury City Council and has been kept available to the public since 1932. The varied un-surfaced trails are suitable for gravel biking, but always respect local signage and regulations regarding specific paths.
Most popular routes around Larkeyvalley Wood
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