The Viking Coastal Trail
Thanet chalk cliffs, Botany Bay, and historic royal harbours
Distance: 51 km (32 miles) | Estimated Duration: 3.5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Margate Station | Finishing Point: Margate Station (Loop)
📥 Download Free GPX Route File (Garmin, Wahoo, Strava, Komoot)
Ride Overview & Terrain
This exhilarating 32-mile circular cycle follows the Isle of Thanet coastline. Starting in Margate, ride past Turner Contemporary, marvel at the towering chalk sea stacks of Botany Bay, pass Charles Dickens' beloved Broadstairs, cruise through the Royal Harbour of Ramsgate, and loop back inland along quiet farm tracks past Minster Abbey and St Nicholas at Wade.
Kent's most famous coastal circular cycle route (NCN 15), hugging dramatic white chalk cliffs and sandy bays around the Isle of Thanet.
Travel & Getting There with Your Bike
By Train: Direct Southeastern high-speed train from London St Pancras or Victoria to Margate. Off-peak trains allow bicycles without booking. (Nearest station: Margate Station (Start / End), travel time: 1h 25m high-speed from St Pancras).
By Car & Parking: Cycle-friendly parking available near the start point.
Cyclist Coffee Stops, Cafes & Pubs
Recommended cyclist-friendly cafes and refreshment stops along The Viking Coastal Trail:
- ☕ The Bus Cafe, Margate: Popular refreshment stop for cyclists.
- ☕ Royal Victoria Pavilion (Wetherspoon): Popular refreshment stop for cyclists.
Cycling Tips & Route Advice
- Coastal winds can be strong; check wind direction before starting to ride with the tailwind along the cliffs.
- Suitable for road, hybrid, and gravel bikes (fully paved or packed gravel throughout).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance, duration, and difficulty of The Viking Coastal Trail?
The Viking Coastal Trail is a 51 km (32 miles) taking approximately 3.5 hours, graded Moderate. Starts at Margate Station and finishes at Margate Station (Loop).
How do I get to The Viking Coastal Trail by train?
Direct Southeastern high-speed train from London St Pancras or Victoria to Margate. Off-peak trains allow bicycles without booking. (Nearest station: Margate Station (Start / End), travel time: 1h 25m high-speed from St Pancras).
Where can I park near the start of The Viking Coastal Trail?
Cycle-friendly parking available near the start point.
More Scenic UK Cycle Rides
Olympic Box Hill Loop • The Crab and Winkle Way • The Windsor Castle Ride • The Kent Castles Loop