The Tonbridge-Rye Loop
OK, so our roads are overcrowded, pot-holed and occupied by sales reps in Mondeos more interested in their sat-navs than what’s happening in front of them. But pick the right time of day, season or move away from the more common routes and we have some of the best riding in the country.
Here is a typical ride of around 70 miles, taking in a mixture of fast A roads and twisty and straight B roads, often free from traffic much of the time. A great early morning weekend trip with a fast start to wake you up, full english breakfast en-route followed by a trip home at your own pace.
From Tonbridge, head south on the A21 Hastings road, then just before the Lamberhurst by-pass take the A262 Goudhurst road at the roundabout, carry on through Goudhurst and Sissinghurst towards Biddenden.
At Biddenden turn right for Tenterden, from here turn left onto the B2080 to Appledore and then to Snargate and Brenzett. Take the A259, head through Romney Hill until you reach the B2075 turning on the right. The route really takes off here, slow bends and fast sweeps as you pass Lydd Ranges, beware of strong crosswinds at this point as the area is very exposed. Carry on past Camber until you meet the A259 again, then bear left for Rye.
Halfway point is the Stade at Rye, a popular meeting place for bikers from miles around. Breakfast at the cafe opposite is highly recommended.
Leave Rye on the A268 towards Peasmarsh and over the historic Kent and East Sussex Railway at Northiam, the road continues through Newenden, Sandhurst and Hawkhurst until the Flimwell crossroads. Turn right here and head up the A21 and one last blast back up to Tonbridge.
Gus Stevenson
I want to go faster, I want to go faster..
