Self-led cycle ride from Southwark to Canterbury on the Francigena Britannica
Date: 4th and 5th July 2026
Time of departure: 8am 4th July
Point of departure: Register your details in the form below to receive details on the meeting point.
Destination: Canterbury cathedral gates, around 4pm on 5th
Suggested venue for overnight stay: Aylesford Priory. Use CPR’s name when booking. If you wish to take advantage of the pilgrim discount for your accommodation, then please obtain a Credential from us on the day (cost £7 in cash please). To book Aylesford Priory visit: accommodation booking
Return journey to London: There are two stations, Canterbury West goes to north London, and Canterbury East to south London. Please note that you are likely to be required to book your bike in advance.
Bike types: Gravel or similar will easily handle the route. If the ground is wet, then some stretches might make it hard going for ordinary, narrow tyres. I have ridden the whole route when wet on a tourer using 32mm width tyres with ease.
Stopping points: It is likely that the organisers will want to visit certain key sites along the two-day ride, such as St Margaret of Antioch church in Darenth, the Dirty Habit pub in Hollingbourne, or the Hub in Wye (a cycle hub café).
Booking cost: There is no booking fee or associated costs to join this two-day ride, but do let us know whether you plan to join us. Its free because it’s an unsupported ride, however, a charitable donation to CPR would be appreciated.
How to register: To register for this event, please fill in the form below. We will send you up-to-date information about meeting points, timings etc..
If you’d like to ride it on your own at any time, or you’d like to join in for just a part of the route, here are the links to GPX and guidance notes: Britannica cycle guide and gpx
If you have any questions, feel free to email me: chair@pilgrimstorome.org.uk
Carlo Laurenzi