The park is situated on the site of the former Betteshanger Colliery, which was once the largest coal mine in the Kent Coalfield.
The 3km road cycling circuit is one of the premier purpose-built facilities for cycling in Southeast England.
The landscape is designated as a site of ecological importance due to the reclamation of land that previously served as a colliery spoil heap.
The park provides specific educational workshops focused on the geology and fossil history of the nearby St Margaret's and Deal cliffs.
Betteshanger Park is a 250-acre sustainable parkland built on the former site of the Betteshanger Colliery. It features a dedicated road cycling track designed to competition standards, alongside miles of woodland mountain bike trails. The park serves as a hub for fossil hunting due to its proximity to the geologically significant cliffs of the Kent coast. It incorporates a large outdoor adventure playground and areas for archery and bushcraft activities. The terrain includes a mix of reclaimed heathland, mature woods, and purpose-built sports facilities. Visitors can utilize the on-site visitor centre which provides information on the local mining heritage. It is a managed landscape that balances industrial reclamation with outdoor recreational infrastructure.
The raised vantage point overlooking the reclaimed landscape near the main visitor centre.
Check the event calendar online before arriving, as the cycling tracks are occasionally closed for private races or sporting competitions.
Bring weather-appropriate gear, as the open layout of the park offers limited protection from coastal winds.
Utilize the bike wash facilities if bringing your own mountain bikes for the woodland trails.
Do not attempt to walk on the cycling track while races are in progress; avoid straying into restricted areas designated for wildlife preservation.
The cycling track occasionally closes for private events; check the park's digital calendar for track availability before traveling.
Cyclists should wear helmets at all times on the track; keep to marked trails to protect the site's ongoing ecological restoration.
