A better Medway

Cycling and cycling groups in Medway

Get into cycling

Coronavirus (COVID-19) updates

Following government guidelines about coronavirus (COVID-19) we have cancelled our cycling groups until further notice. We look forward to our groups resuming in the future. We'll keep this page updated.

In line with government guidance, we encourage you to take one form of exercise a day if possible.

Please follow the social distancing guidance when exercising: 

  • do not exercise outdoors in a large group
  • if you are exercising with someone, make sure there is a gap of at least 2 metres between you and the other person

Get into cycling

Cycling in a group is a great way to get into cycling. Groups are free, run all year on flat routes, and most of all are fun.
 

Benefits of cycling groups

There are lots of benefits to cycling in a group, including:

  • led by a ride-leader
  • supportive groups
  • groups run all year round

Take part in a cycling group

Our cycling groups are perfect for:

  • beginners or returning cyclists
  • anyone aged 18 or over
  • men and women
  • people that want to cycle more

For more information on the cycling groups or lessons call us on 01634 333 720 or email cycling@medway.gov.uk.

Upcoming rides

We aim to provide a network of bike rides on national cycle network routes.

The Bell Mast Tower
Historic Dockyard
Chatham
ME4 4LL

Monday morning

(Ride social)

 Up to 60 minutes

9.45am

Book the ride

 1/5 Easygoing
Riverside Country Park
Rainham
ME7 2XH

Thursday mornings

(Guided ride)

 Up to 60 minutes 10.15am 1/5 Easygoing
Meeting point Day Duration Meeting time Difficulty

If there are no participants booked 1 hour before the ride meeting time, the ride may automatically be cancelled.

All of our rides are for those aged 18 or over.

Cycle lessons

We now run bike lessons for adults. This course takes place on Saturday mornings at Gun Wharf Car Park (ME4 4TR).

The course is designed for people who would like to start riding their bike or have no experience.

Please note you must have your own bike and helmet.

Email cycling@medway.gov.uk or phone 01634 333 727.

Benefits of cycling

“The numbers of people choosing to cycle for fun, fitness or to get to work has increased by more than a quarter in twenty years and an incredible 3.2 billion miles are cycled on our roads every year.”  – Department for Transport THINK! website

Many people cycle because of the multiple benefits it can provide.

Cycling can:

  • provide a broad muscle workout, using all major muscle groups in the body – it builds strength, stamina and aerobic fitness
  • cause less strain and injuries than other forms of exercise, because it is a 'low-impact' activity
  • be as intense as you want. For more information regarding how much to exercise, visit the NHS exercise advice page 
  • provide outdoor fun – you are more likely to continue with exercise if it is fun and interesting
  • replace time spent driving, and help reduce pollution and your personal carbon footprint

If you're just getting started, check out the NHS Live Well guide ‘Cycling for beginners‘. 

Medway cycle clubs

If you are interested in joining a cycle club, we have a list of sports clubs under the Clubmark standard. 

Cycle training in schools

Bikeability is our cycle training programme which can help you develop practical skills and understanding to keep you safe when cycling on the road. It also gives you the confidence to get out and about with all kinds of cycling.

For further information please visit the Bikeability page.

Cycle routes

View cycle maps in Medway

The Heron Trail is an 18 mile (29km) trail connecting the villages of Higham, Cliffe, Cooling, High Halstow, Hoo and Upnor.

Highlights include view of both the River Medway and the River Thames and detour routes including the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds with sightings of herons.

More information on the Explore Kent website.

Useful links