The best gravel rides around Lower Hardres and Nackington
4.4
(14)
71
riders
5
rides
Gravel biking around Lower Hardres and Nackington offers a network of routes through the Kent countryside, characterized by rolling hills, woodlands, and open fields. The area provides varied terrain suitable for gravel bikes, including sections of historic paths like the Crab and Winkle Way. Riders can expect a mix of gentle gradients and some more challenging ascents, with views across the landscape.
Best gravel bike trails around Lower Hardres and Nackington
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Crab and…
Last updated: July 16, 2026
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.
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.
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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.
4
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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.
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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 in Lower Hardres and Nackington?
The Lower Hardres and Nackington area offers a network of 10 gravel bike routes. These range from easy, gentle rides to more challenging trails, catering to various skill levels.
Are there any easy or family-friendly gravel bike routes in the area?
Yes, there are several options suitable for beginners or families. For a shorter, easier ride, consider the Crab and Winkle Way – Crab and Winkle Way Signpost loop from University of Kent. This 10.7 km route is rated easy and offers a pleasant experience through the Kent countryside.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Lower Hardres and Nackington?
You can expect varied terrain, including rolling hills, dense woodlands, and open fields. The routes often incorporate historic paths, offering a mix of gentle gradients and some more challenging ascents, typical of the Kent countryside.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions I can see along the gravel bike trails?
Many routes pass by significant points of interest. You can explore historic sites like the Westgate Towers or the iconic Canterbury Cathedral. The Crab and Winkle Way itself is a historic path, and you might also encounter natural beauty spots like Chequers Wood and Old Park or the scenic Mount Ephraim Gardens.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in Lower Hardres and Nackington?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Crab and Winkle Way – Crab and Winkle Way Signpost loop from University of Kent is a popular circular option.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Lower Hardres and Nackington?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 25 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, the mix of historic paths and natural scenery, and the well-maintained routes through woodlands and open countryside.
Is public transport accessible for reaching gravel bike trails in Nackington?
Yes, Canterbury West station serves as a convenient starting point for several routes, including the Westgate Towers – Chilham Square loop from Canterbury West. This allows for easy access via public transport to the wider Nackington area.
Are there any gravel bike routes that include a cafe stop in Lower Hardres?
While specific cafe stops are not always built into the route descriptions, many trails pass through or near villages and towns like Canterbury, where numerous cafes and pubs are available for a break. Planning your route to include a stop in Canterbury City Centre is a good option.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Lower Hardres and Nackington?
The Kent countryside offers enjoyable gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also great, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather. Winter rides are possible, though some paths might be muddier.
Are there any longer, more challenging gravel bike routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, the Lyminge Forest – View from Wye Downs loop from Canterbury West is a difficult 58.5 km trail. It leads through Lyminge Forest and offers rewarding views from Wye Downs, typically taking around 3 hours 45 minutes to complete.
Where can I find parking for gravel biking in the Nackington area?
Many routes start from locations with public parking, such as near the University of Kent or in Canterbury itself. When planning your ride, check the specific tour details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.
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