The Sustrans Regional Route 18 (www.sustrans.org.uk/?county=1133949216656) has been linked with Route 1 of the Sustrans National Cycle Network to provide a circular cycle trail which connects the villages of Higham, Cliffe, Cooling, High Halstow, Hoo and Upnor. This trail is 18 miles (29km) long and takes about two and a half hours to cycle.
The cycle trail provides a combination of rural and maritime interest, with spectacular views of the River Medway and River Thames. There are several detour routes, including the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) Northward Hill reserve (www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/n/northwardhill) famed for the herons which have given the trail its name.
On the way are spectacular rural and estuary views and you can visit several places of historical interest, including castles, churches and houses and also enjoy good resting places and pubs.
A copy of the Heron Trail leaflet is available from the Visitor Information Centre and gives two different trails (one shorter than the other) and sets out all the points of interest that can be visited en route, including Cooling Castle, Upnor Castle, St James Church, Cooling, Cliffe Fort and the RSPB nature reserves.
The leaflet, produced in association with the RSPB, is also available on the Sustrans website:
Alternatively, you can use the link at the top of this page to find and print a picture of the route.
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