As more of us start planning for a return to campus, it’s worth considering how we travel there. With the government keen for everyone to get back in the saddle and the University actively promoting cycling and walking, why not give cycling a go?

To encourage staff and students to walk and cycle to, from and around our campuses, Kent offers a range of incentives.

Here are the 10 things on offer to make cycling an easier option:

1. Staff Cycle to Work Scheme

The Staff Cycle to Work Scheme offers you the chance to purchase a brand new bike and accessories from a range of participating local stores at a discounted rate. Further information is available on the Staff Finance page.

2. Local bike shop discounts

Some local bike shops, including Canterbury Cycles in Canterbury and Bikes Bike Bikes in Gillingham, offer Kent staff and students 10-15% discounts on bike purchases. You can find further information on Travel Discounts.

 3. Business bike mileage allowance

Staff who use their bike to travel to and from a meeting can claim 20p per mile. For more information, see ourFinance webpages.

4. Cycle shelters

There are over 2,000 cycle parking spaces available across the Canterbury and Medway campuses. This includes several covered and secure (KentOne card-access) shelters.

You can view the location of all the Canterbury-based bike lock-ups via this map. Shelters on the Medway campus are located at the Drill Hall Library, Central Avenue and Nelson Building.

5. University cycle groups

KUBUG is an independent cycling group at the University. It’s open to all staff and students who have an interest in cycling in and around the Canterbury campus. You can interact with other cyclists via the free online forum.

University of Kent Cycling (UKC) is a multi-discipline sports club run by Kent Union. It caters for all levels and anyone who loves having fun on two wheels!

6. Safety tips and advice

The University offers plenty of safety tips and advice when it comes to cycling, including how to check your bike is fit for purpose. See their advice on the Transport page.

7. Cycle events

Cycle events, from fun activities to organised bike rides, take place at the University throughout the year.To find out what’s on when, keep an eye on the transport calendar or follow @unikent_travel.

8. Kent cycle routes

Kent boasts some fantastic cycle routes and footpathsto enjoy both for leisure and as direct routes to and from our campuses. The Crab & Winkle Way, for example, is a picturesque off-road link between Canterbury and Whistable.

9. Cycle training course

If you want to learn how to ride a bike or need more confidence riding to work, then make the most of the cycle training courses provided by Kent County Council.

10. Cycling updates

For cycling updates at the University, follow  @unikent_travel and/or sign up to the Transport team newsletters.

If you have other useful tips for cycling to and from the University of Kent, please share them with us at stories@kent.ac.uk