Activ Gravel - Sheep Sea and Gravel

Experience the wild (and woolly) Romney Marsh, with its big skies, ancient churches, and cobble sectors through medieval Rye. Follow the drains, dykes, and sewers to the coast, across the lonely grasslands, with only the massive wind turbines and powerlines marching away from Dungeness to remind you that you're still in the 21st century.

It's a magical part of the world, and this ride goes right through the heart of it.

Starting at the Activ Cycles Ashford store, the ride quickly leaves the town, heading south through the woods at Orlestone, dropping down to the Royal Military Canal—part of England's defence against a Napoleonic invasion.

Spare a minute to look at the chocolate-box-beautiful Appledore before following the Roman coastline around the once-island of Oxney and Rye.

There’s a feed stop at Rye before you begin to cross the Romney Marsh proper. Follow the old tram track and ride the seawall to Jury's Gap, and then it's big skies, lonely fields full of sheep, quiet lanes, and isolated churches all the way back to Ashford.

It’s a 100 km route, but don’t be put off—there are no real hills and many long stretches are on tiny, quiet lanes. It's a ride for soaking in the landscape rather than chasing elevation.

It's a magical part of the world. Enjoy!

Highlights:

A mix of car-free trails, bridleways, and byways seamlessly connected by quiet country lanes.
Ride through charming villages, past historic churches, and visit Rye, a medieval town.
Recharge at the generously stocked feed station at the halfway point.
Expert mechanical assistance at the start and mid-way feed station.