When my husband suggested that we spend an afternoon cycling at a bike track, I’ll admit to doing more than a few eye rolls and side eyes as I haven’t been cycling for years, leaving him and the kids to go on their lengthy rides while I escaped and did my own thing. One ride around Cyclopark, a 2.9 km road circuit, mountain bike trails (6 km), skate park and a play area in Gravesend, and I was wondering what on earth I’d been moaning about!
Run by a charity on behalf of Kent County Council, you can hire helmets and bikes (as well as buy cycling gear) from the brilliant staff at the shop plus there’s a nice cafe and they also run workshops and activities for scooter lovers, BMX’ers, skate boarders and more. There’s also a running track
Our 6-year old did find it a bit scary the first time round but she tends to be antsy until she’s sussed out something so she moaned her way around twice and then beat all of the kids in our gang for the remainder of the afternoon once she realised that the hills weren’t scary. Actually, the hills (going downhill) were exhilarating and uphill was a workout and a half but an enjoyable challenge.
We thoroughly enjoyed it and will definitely be going back this summer so that we can race each other. Prices are really reasonable – an all areas park pass is £26 for a family of 2 adults and 3 kids is £26. Helmets are compulsory and £2 each to hire and bikes are £14 to hire plus a £50 deposit. We purchased new helmets for the kids and got brilliant service including a fitting and guidance about ensuring that helmet is in the right position.
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