From the inland family friendly woodland trails through the spectacular undulations and stunning views of the South Downs, East and West Sussex offer tremendous cycling opportunities. With coastal routes along cliff top paths as well as towns and cities, Sussex has something for every cyclist to savour.
Coastal Route From Brighton To Camber
This is National Cycle Route 2 and takes the rider from the bustling Brighton seafront eastward along the numerous chalk cliffs that characterise this area of South East England. Passing through Rottingdean, the home of Rudyard Kipling, and Saltdean with its revered Art Deco Lido, the route continues up Telscombe Cliffs. Fans of Graeme Greene will recognise this is where Pinky intended to murder Rose in Brighton Rock.
As the rider travels onward through Seaford, the road dips into the scenic Cuckmere Valley and continues on the edges of Friston Forest and Abbott's Wood. On from here can be be seen the Long Man of Wilmington, a human figure of giant proportions carved into the chalk ridge. Cycle paths lead onto Eastbourne seafront and in turn Pevensey and the fine Cooden Beach near St Leonards.
The rider now enters Hastings, site for the famous battle of 1066. Rich in history not just for this, Hastings still retails some of its medieval style that reminds visitors it was once at the forefront of defending England from invasion.
The town's funicular railway boasts of being the steepest in Britain and provides ready access (it carries bikes) to the stunning 600 acres of Hastings Country Park. The ride from here takes in spectacular coastal views as the route leads around Winchelsea, through Rye and finally across traffic free Romney Marsh to the unforgettable sandy beach and dunes of Camber.
Brighton to Camber is a 70 mile (113km) journey with experienced riders perhaps able to mange it in one day. Excellent rail routes run along this section of the Sussex coast and some may prefer to split the journey for a more relaxed adventure.
The Cuckoo Trail
The Cuckoo Trail is an ideal family friendly route. This paved 13 mile (21 km) path through the Sussex countryside is predominantly free from traffic and is part of National Cycle Route 21. It is a visually pleasing ride, following the former Cuckoo Line railway and running from Heathfield to Eastbourne Park, taking in Horam, Hailsham and Polegate.
Heathfield is a market town situated on one of the primary ridges of the High Weald, an area of outstanding beauty surrounded by the rolling hills of the Sussex countryside. Neighbouring Horam grew from a hamlet thanks to the birth of the Cuckoo Line in 1880 and its landscape is characterised by carved valleys, hedgerows and idyllic narrow country lanes.
Hailsham is a further example of Sussex heritage, along with many historic buildings the nearby Abbott's Wood is rich in mixed woodland. Nearing the end of the ride, unspoilt Polegate is surrounded by rich innocent countryside.
Throughout the ride, visitors can note the variety of wildlife. Birds such as the Cuckoo and sparrow like Dunnock share the land with the Orange Tip butterfly and the wild flowers, Lady's Snack and Lords and Ladies.
Cycling In Sussex In England
Cycling in Sussex is an enjoyable experience throughout the year. The county provides cycling routes for all standards, whether the rider is a seasoned campaigner or part of a family outing there will be something for all to enjoy.
Readers may also enjoy related articles - Visit Rottingdean and Exploring The South Downs.
References
National Cycle Network
Sussex County Council
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