As you make your move to marvellous Medway, what better way to bond with friends than to enjoy some sporting activities throughout the rest of wider Kent?
So you're interested in studying sport? Whether you fancy cycling along our beautiful coastline or paddle boarding around relaxing reservoirs, study in Kent at Canterbury Christ Church University or the University of Kent and you'll have the chance to push your limits and enjoy an exciting off-campus adventure.
From surfing to SUPing; canoeing to cricket, our selection of superb sports will pique your interests and provide you with the perfect places to let off some steam. Seriously, with all this and more on your doorstep, Kent is the ultimate spot to study sport.
And if you're really interested in studying sport sciences, be sure to check out the range of courses listed below, available at both The University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University.
Don’t forget to check the websites before your visit and plan your adventure!
Whether you want to amble through some serene scenery or cycle alongside the gentle sounds of the waterfront enjoy a day out at Bewl Water. Immerse yourself in the sights of Kent on-the-go as you pedal 13 miles round the reservoir at your own pace. Want to stretch your legs? With its flat trail and staggering lakeside scenery, it’s also the perfect place to get off the beaten track and enjoy a run amidst nature. Or, if you want to try your hand at fishing why not tackle the largest reservoir in the South East, you can even hire a rod or boat to kickstart your adventure.
Forget California, did you know Broadstairs in Kent is a pretty good surfing spot? Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a first-timer, the team at Joss Bay Surf School are licensed providers of surf and SUP courses. Each exciting lesson lasts 2 hours with both teaching and free time, so you'll have the space to master your skills before taking to the waves to practise. Take in the magnificent views from the off-shore scene as you carve the waves and challenge your core muscles. Already a senior surfer? Why not hire the equipment and go on your own expedition to enjoy the calming atmosphere of the Kent coast?
Find freedom from the hustle and bustle at Bedgebury Pinetum, whether you’re an elite mountain-biker or first time pedaler, clip on your helmet and prepare for a wild ride in the Kentish countryside. With mixed level terrain and a dense woodland setting you can have a trail-blazing adventure in amongst a wonderful expanse of nature. There’s so much space for you to run, trek or amble along, simply pick your distance! Whether you want a healthy stride in the fresh countryside or to book a tree-top adventure at their onsite GoApe, you can enjoy a taste for Kent’s great outdoors.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced fix, Cyclopark in Gravesend has it covered. Kitted out with 6 kilometres of mountain bike trails for varying abilities, a skate park, road course and first class BMX tracks, feel every bump, jump, ramp and turn as you enjoy the rush of the ride. Need to borrow a bike? No problem! You can hire a set of wheels whilst you’re there, so head down to the Cyclopark for a wheelie good day out. Plus, with disabled access and the Cyclo4All initiative, which aims to find the right bike for the rider, Cyclopark offers the chance to take to the trails, whatever your ability.
Get your skates on and enjoy an exhilarating experience at Gillingham ice rink. Whether you’ve skated before or are putting on blades for the first time, feel intoxicated by the thrill of being on the ice. If you’re feeling wobbly, why not book a session with a small group to strengthen your skating skills? Build up momentum as you race around the rink, who knows, we might see you in the next Olympics!
Want to experience a relaxing cycle near the sea and hire a bike with the click of a finger? Click2Cycle offers a great way to pedal away on your own coastal journey. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure, cardiovascular challenge or a serene cycle out in the best of nature, you’re in for an exciting ride on Kent's coastline! Loosen up those stiff joints and feel the wind on your face as you whip around the magnificent coastal tracks.
Study in Kent and you'll have the chance to cheer on local team Gillingham as they battle through 90 minutes of thrilling football action and find a new allegiance with this passionate team. With a video match pass you can watch the thrilling action and get your football fix with the latest news on their website. Whether you’re a footie fanatic or just want to soak up the hyped atmosphere of a Kentish game, support the Gills through their ups and downs of the beautiful game.
(c) Tommorussell on Instagram
Coast and countryside really is just a pebble's throw away if you study in Canterbury. Take to two wheels on this seven mile mostly traffic-free trail from Canterbury and you could be on the beach in Whitstable in under an hour. Pedaling through countryside, you'll head through the RSPB nature reserve of Blean Woods, through Clowes Wood (listen out for the songs of the nightjar), and off to the coast. If you're really feeling energetic, a dip in the sea at Whistable Bay really tops off the day, or why not sit and soak up the town's renowned arts scene while knocking back an oyster or two (trust us, it's got to be done).
If you make the move to a Canterbury campus, you may well wonder about the best way to explore the city. Well, we recommend taking a guided tour around the city’s riverways with Canoe Wild. If you want a taste of freedom out on the water, try booking a taster session where you can even enjoy indoor kayaking sessions in winter. For the more proficient paddler, there's nothing better than hiring a kayak or canoe and mapping your own route through the Stour. Work on your upper-body strength whilst enjoying a fun day-out and explore the city from a unique viewpoint at your own pace.
Fancy taking things a step further? If these activities get your heart racing then the courses below are sure to interest you, check them out:
