The best cycling routes around Dartford

Dartford offers a diverse network of over 80 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 21 easy, 39 moderate, and 22 difficult options, ensuring there's a suitable ride for everyone.

Yes, Dartford has over 20 easy touring cycling routes. The Queen Elizabeth II Bridge – Queen Elizabeth II Bridge loop from Dartford is an easy 10.2-mile (16.4 km) route. Additionally, the Darent Valley Path is known for being family-friendly, and National Cycle Route 125 offers a 3.6-mile traffic-free path connecting Brooklands Lake to the River Thames via Dartford town centre.

Touring cycling in Dartford offers a mix of scenic landscapes. You can enjoy riverside paths along the Darent and Thames, expansive green spaces like Dartford Heath and Central Park, and the rolling hills and ancient woodlands of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Routes also pass through unique areas like the Crayford Marshes, known for their wetlands and birdlife.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Dartford are circular. For example, the View of Eynsford Viaduct – Eynsford Ford loop from Dartford is a popular moderate 28.7-mile (46.2 km) circular route through the Darent Valley. Another option is the Crossness Pumping Station – Assembly by Peter Burke loop from Swanscombe, a moderate 33.7-mile (54.2 km) ride along the Thames Estuary.

Dartford's routes offer several points of interest. You might pass historical landmarks such as the Manor Gatehouse, coaching inns on the Roman Road, or remnants like Dartford Priory Gatehouse. Natural attractions include the Confluence of the River Darent and the Thames, Crayford Marshes, and Joydens Wood singletrack trails.

Dartford offers both hilly and flatter options. For a more challenging ride with significant elevation, consider the difficult Ightham Mote – Row Dow Climb loop from Longfield, which features over 1200 meters of ascent. For flatter terrain, routes along the Thames Estuary or the Darent Valley tend to be less demanding, such as the easy Queen Elizabeth II Bridge – Queen Elizabeth II Bridge loop from Dartford.

Yes, Dartford is accessible by public transport for cyclists. Bikes are permitted on off-peak train services, including weekends and Bank Holidays, making it convenient to bring your bike to the area and start your touring adventure.

While specific parking locations for each route vary, Dartford town centre and various country parks like Darenth Country Park and Beacon Wood Country Park offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking information for your chosen starting point.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 80 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied landscapes, from tranquil riverside paths to the rolling hills of the Kent Downs, and the well-maintained routes that cater to different abilities.

Yes, some routes incorporate or pass near Cyclopark, a significant regional cycling attraction. The moderate Cyclopark – Walnut Hill Road loop from Swanscombe is a 25.9-mile (41.7 km) route that includes this area. Cyclopark can also be reached via Route 177 from National Cycle Route 1.

Cyclists wishing to cross the Thames at the Dartford Crossing can utilize a dedicated shuttle service. This service provides a safe and convenient way to traverse the crossing with your bicycle.

Absolutely. The Crossness Pumping Station – Assembly by Peter Burke loop from Swanscombe is a moderate route that follows riverside paths, offering extensive views of the Thames Estuary. The King Charles III England Coast Path also follows the Thames Estuary, providing a unique blend of industrial scenery and natural beauty.