The best traffic-free bike rides around St Margaret'S At Cliffe
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Road cycling around St Margaret'S At Cliffe offers diverse terrain within the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and along the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. The region features rolling hills, quiet country lanes, and coastal paths with views of the English Channel. Cyclists can navigate challenging ascents and enjoy more gentle routes through picturesque rural scenery. This area provides a unique blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks for road cycling.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around St Margaret'S At Cliffe
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Walmer Castle and Gardens – Walmer Castle loop from St. Margaret's at Cliffe, a 13.7 miles (22.1 km) easy trail that takes 1 hour 1 minute to complete. This route leads through coastal areas and past historic sites like Walmer Castle.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is The White Cliffs of Dover – Deal Castle loop from St. Margaret's at Cliffe, a moderate 19.6 miles (31.5 km) path. This route offers scenic views of the White Cliffs and passes historical landmarks such as Deal Castle.
- Local road cyclists also love the View of Dover Castle – View of Dover Castle loop from St. Margaret's at Cliffe, a 18.2 miles (29.3 km) trail leading through rolling hills and country lanes, often completed in about 1 hour 31 minutes.
- Road cycling around St Margaret'S At Cliffe is defined by dramatic coastal scenery, the undulating terrain of the Kent Downs, and views across the English Channel. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy coastal rides to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in St Margaret'S At Cliffe are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 100 reviews. More than 2,500 road cyclists have used komoot to explore St Margaret'S At Cliffe's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
6
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
2
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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17
riders
48.7km
02:30
490m
490m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around St Margaret'S At Cliffe
Tips from the Community
Millions of years of phytoplankton forming chalk. Stunning views of the chalk cliffs from varying points on the coastal pathways.
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Highly recommended for a snack and a souvenir.
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On the left you see the castle and Ramsgate and on the right you see France.
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@Rombea your posted pictures were taken at the castle and not at all at the place of the highlight.
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Deal Castle is an artillery fort built by Henry VIII in Deal, Kent, between 1539 and 1540. It was part of the King's Device program to protect against invasions from France and the Holy Roman Empire, and defended the strategically important Downs anchorage off the English coast. Consisting of a keep with six inner and outer bastions, the water-surrounded stone castle covered 0.85 acres (0.34 ha) and had sixty-six firing positions for artillery. During the Second English Civil War of 1648-49, Deal was captured by pro-Royalist rebels and was only recaptured by Parliamentary forces after several months of fighting. Although still armed, Deal was adapted by Sir John Norris and Lord Carrington during the 18th and 19th centuries to form a more suitable private home for the captain of the castle, which was now an honorary title.
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Hut 55 is a coffee house based in a beach hut on Deal beach, Kent. It offers takeaway meals, picnics and bike rental. You can relax on a sun lounger with a fresh coffee and a piece of homemade cake while enjoying the uninterrupted sea views. Hut 55 is on the National Route One cycle path, so you can hire adult and children's bikes by the hour, day or week to explore the Kent coast with a delicious picnic.
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Walmer Castle is an artillery fort originally built by Henry VIII in Walmer, Kent, between 1539 and 1540. It was part of the King's Device program to protect against invasions from France and the Holy Roman Empire, defending the strategically important Downs anchorage off the English coast. Walmer Castle later became the official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports and was gradually transformed from a military fortress into a private residence. Inside the castle there are new areas to explore, opening to the public for the first time in 2024. Discover the Lord Warden's private chambers and see where the Queen Mother stayed during her visits. The grounds include the Queen Mother's Garden, designed by Penelope Hobhouse as a 95th birthday present for Elizabeth in 1997.
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Well worth the price of admission on a hot day with a family. Slowly take in the garden and tea rooms attached.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around St Margaret's at Cliffe?
There are over 140 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around St Margaret's at Cliffe. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 61 easy, 76 moderate, and 4 difficult options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic road cycling routes?
The routes offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find quiet country lanes winding through the Kent Downs AONB, offering rolling hills and wooded valleys. Expect some challenging ascents and descents, especially near the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, which provide significant elevation gain. Coastal paths also offer flatter sections with refreshing sea air.
Are there any easy, traffic-free road cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are 61 easy, traffic-free road cycling routes. A good option to start with is the Walmer Castle and Gardens – Walmer Castle loop from St. Margaret's at Cliffe, which is approximately 22 km long and features gentle elevation changes.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features along the no-traffic road cycling routes?
Many routes offer breathtaking views. You can cycle past the world-famous White Cliffs of Dover, offering panoramic views of the English Channel. The South Foreland Lighthouse is another prominent landmark with stunning vistas. You'll also find beautiful coastal scenery around St Margaret's Bay Beach and the tranquil landscapes of the Kent Downs.
Can I visit historical landmarks while on a no-traffic road cycling route?
Absolutely. The region is rich in history. Consider the White Cliffs of Dover – Deal Castle loop from St. Margaret's at Cliffe, which takes you past historical sites. Other notable landmarks include the Dover Patrol Memorial and the South Foreland Lighthouse. You can also find highlights like Dover Tunnels – Operation Dynamo Command Centre and Fan Bay Deep Shelter nearby.
Are there any challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, there are 4 difficult routes for experienced riders seeking a challenge. The region's 'chalk cliffs and rolling hills' mean routes often include demanding ascents. For example, the climb up Bay Hill from St. Margaret's Beach is known for its steep gradient, providing a good test for trained cyclists.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in St Margaret's at Cliffe?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.57 stars from 115 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the quiet country lanes, and the rewarding challenges of the climbs, especially those offering glimpses of the French coast on clear days.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the View of Dover Castle – View of Dover Castle loop from St. Margaret's at Cliffe and the South Foreland Lighthouse – View of Dover Port loop from St. Margaret's at Cliffe, both offering scenic circular rides.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in St Margaret's at Cliffe?
While cycling is possible year-round, spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions. The fresh sea air is enjoyable, but be mindful of coastal winds, which can be a factor at any time of year. Checking local weather forecasts before your ride is always recommended.
Is there public transport access to the no-traffic road cycling routes?
St Margaret's at Cliffe is accessible by public transport. Dover, a nearby town, has good transport links and offers dedicated cycle lanes along its seafront, connecting to National Cycle Network routes. These routes, such as NCN Route 1 and Route 2, can lead you to quieter sections and the start of many no-traffic routes.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Parking is generally available in and around St Margaret's at Cliffe, as well as in nearby towns like Dover and Deal. Many routes start from locations with public parking facilities, making it convenient to access the traffic-free lanes and coastal paths.
Most popular routes around St Margaret'S At Cliffe
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