Oyster Bay Trail

Enjoy panoramic views of the Kent coast on this largely traffic-free route between Whitstable and Reculver. With history and nature to experience, and pubs and cafes along the way, it’s perfect for a family day out or a leisurely walk or cycle.

The Oyster Bay Trail is a largely flat route along concrete, shared-use promenade.

There are some on-road sections, the main one being along the Herne Bay seafront, which is traffic-calmed and has a 20-miles-per-hour speed limit.

Whitstable is a lively seaside town known for its buzzing harbour, brightly coloured beach huts and local seafood.

There are a number of pubs and cafes to grab a bite at, including The Old Neptune which sits right on the beach.


Outstanding coastal views

There are great views of the coast all along the route. At Tankerton, you’ll be able to look back to the Isle of Sheppey.

At low tide you may also see The Street – an exposed bank of shingle in the sea.

Herne Bay stands at the middle of the route. A classic seaside resort, there are ice cream shops, a pier, seafront gardens and a bandstand.

You may want to dip your toes in the sea at the shingly beach. 


Picture-perfect parks

At the other end of the route, you’ll definitely want to set time aside to explore Reculver Country Park.

With fantastic views of the Thames Estuary – perfect at sunset – it’s a Special Protection Area of meadows, where sand martins nest in the cliffs.

The park is an ideal spot for a picnic, and there’s also a visitor centre, café, cycle parking and public toilets nearby.

That’s not to mention the Reculver Towers. A Scheduled Ancient Monument, this 12th-century church makes for a picturesque backdrop.

If you want to go further from Reculver, you can join the Viking Coastal Trail.

You can also hop on the train at Whitstable, Chestfield and Swalecliffe, and Herne Bay stations.

Please note

We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.

However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.

Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces. Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.

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