This Sustrans Regional Route 18 has been linked with Route 1 of the Sustrans National Cycle Network to provide a circular cycle trail which links the villages of Higham, Cliffe, Cooling, High Halstow, Hoo and Upnor.

The distance of the circular trail is 18 miles (29 km) and will take approximately 2.5 hours to cycle. This timing has not allowed for stops. We are also including a shorter route allowing greater flexibility.

Whilst we have indicated Lower Higham as the Start/Finish of the Trail, as it is a circular route it can be started at any point. We do recommend that you cycle in a clockwise direction.

The landscape of the trail provides a combination of rural and maritime interest with spectacular views of the Medway and Thames rivers. There are also several detour routes including a Nature Reserve famed for the herons that have given this Trail its name.

During your journey, you will be able to visit many places of historical interest including castles, churches and houses, some of which have a connection with Charles Dickens who wrote several of his famous novels here in Medway.

You will find numerous resting places, restaurants and pubs along the route providing good food and accommodation.

We do hope that you enjoy your experience on The Heron Trail.

Route Guide

Assuming that the start and finish point is High Station - although you can join at any point as it is a circular trail.
1. On leaving High Station turn RIGHT over railway bridge.
2. Take SECOND LEFT into Gore Green Road.
3. TURN LEFT into Buckland Road and follow through into Cliffe.
4. Buttway Lane - LEFT into Church St - RIGHT into Reed St
5. LEFT into Cooling Road through Cooling, then along Lipwell Hill into High Halstow.
6. SECOND road on RIGHT - Christmas Lane.
7. Join cycleway on LEFT before roundabout.
8. Use crossing into No Through Road (taking care). Follow Sharnal Street through to next roundabout.
9. Stay LEFT into Roper's Lane and FIRST RIGHT into Stoke Road through to Hoo until reach A228.
10. Take THIRD LEFT just before Bridge over A228 to Upchat Road.
11. TURN RIGHT into Upchat Road.
12. TURN LEFT, just before roundabout, on cycle path into Woodfield Way and LEFT at T-junction.
13. RIGHT into Bunters Hill Road.
14. Cross B2000 (taking care) into Two Gates Hill and continue to Lower Higham.

Transport and Visitor Information

Higham Station is on the North Kent Line, linking Gillingham to Charing Cross, London. Higham Station is approximately 1 hour from Charing Cross. A limited number of cycles are carried on all services apart from main commuter periods. No charge is made. Connex reserves the right to restrict the carriage of bicycles on any train when the safety and comfort of customers may be affected or cause delays to services. For further information telephone Connex 0870 603 0405

Medway Visitor Information Centre

The Medway Visitor Information Centre can provide a whole range of services including details of accommodation providers and dates of events and festivals. Open 7 days per week.
95 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1LX
Telephone 01634 843666.