Canterbury to Chartham (Along the Great Stour)

River meanders, water meadows, Hambrook Marshes, and paper mill heritage

Route Overview

This peaceful linear route follows the gently winding River Great Stour. Starting by Canterbury's Westgate Towers and award-winning riverside gardens, you join a car-free cycle and walking greenway. Cross the boardwalks of Hambrook Marshes (home to grazing cattle and kingfishers), pass willow-draped bends and historic cider orchards, and finish at the charming village green of Chartham with its historic paper mill weir.

Travel & Getting There from London Victoria

By Train: Southeastern High Speed runs direct from St Pancras to Canterbury West in 54 minutes. Hourly return trains from Chartham connect back to Ashford International / London. (Station: Canterbury West (Start) / Chartham (Finish), duration: 54 mins from London St Pancras (return direct from Chartham in 1h 10m)).

By Bus: Stagecoach bus routes 1 or 28 run frequently between Chartham and Canterbury bus station. (12 mins between points)

By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is Canterbury West Station Car Park (CT2 8AN) or Wincheap Park & Ride (CT1 3TY). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1 hr 20 mins from London Victoria (60 miles via M2 & A2). Drive from London via the M2 and A2 directly to Canterbury, using the Wincheap Park & Ride.

Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs

Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Canterbury to Chartham (Along the Great Stour) trail:

• ☕ The Artichoke Inn Chartham: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ The Chapter Arms Chartham Hatch: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ Cafe Des Amis Canterbury: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel to Canterbury to Chartham (Along the Great Stour) from London?

Southeastern High Speed runs direct from St Pancras to Canterbury West in 54 minutes. Hourly return trains from Chartham connect back to Ashford International / London. (Station: Canterbury West (Start) / Chartham (Finish), duration: 54 mins from London St Pancras (return direct from Chartham in 1h 10m)).

Where is the closest car park for Canterbury to Chartham (Along the Great Stour)?

Nearest car park is Canterbury West Station Car Park (CT2 8AN) or Wincheap Park & Ride (CT1 3TY). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1 hr 20 mins from London Victoria (60 miles via M2 & A2). Drive from London via the M2 and A2 directly to Canterbury, using the Wincheap Park & Ride.

How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?

Canterbury to Chartham (Along the Great Stour) covers 7.5 km (4.7 miles) with an estimated duration of 2 hours, graded as Easy. Starts at Canterbury West Railway Station and finishes at Chartham Railway Station.