The Best South Downs Cycling Routes for a Two-Wheeled Adventure

The South Downs National Park is a paradise for cyclists: rolling chalk hills, sweeping valleys and postcard-perfect villages linked by miles of trails and quiet country lanes. Whether you’re craving a lung-busting challenge with exhilarating descents or a gentle meander past historic landmarks, this area offers some of the best rides in the country. Covering everything from classic hill climbs to gentle trails, here’s our guide to the best South Downs cycling routes.

Spanning the full length of the national park, the South Downs Way is a demanding yet rewarding ride for cyclists up for a challenge. The rugged 160-km route, from Winchester to Eastbourne, is the only National Trail fully accessible by bike. Following ancient chalk paths once used by traders and pilgrims, the trail winds over rolling hills and escarpments, passing Bronze Age barrows, Iron Age forts and medieval churches along the way. The climbs are tough and the descents are fast – a proper test for your brakes – but the sweeping views over Sussex and Hampshire make all the effort worthwhile. Scenic stops include Queen Elizabeth Country Park and the legendary Devil’s Dyke. Kick off your journey from nearby Southampton – a good night's sleep and an energising breakfast will set you up for an unforgettable trip!

• Start/End: Winchester to Eastbourne. Both towns are well served by trains.
• Distance: 160 km. Can be cycled in one day if you're very fit, but most cyclists split the route over two to three days.
• Difficulty: Challenging (off-road, hilly). Best for experienced cyclists.

The Centurion Way is a smooth, traffic-free South Downs cycling route between Chichester and West Dean. It's named after a Roman road that once ran through the area and is dotted with sculptures and artwork reflecting the local heritage. Passing through shaded woodlands and open countryside, the scenic path has a gentle gradient, perfect for families and casual cyclists. Extend your journey with a visit to the Weald & Downland Living Museum or enjoy a picnic at West Dean Gardens.

• Start/End: Chichester to West Dean. Chichester is easily reached by train, and bike hire is available locally if you don’t have your own wheels.
• Distance: 9 km
• Difficulty: Easy; suitable for all ages and abilities.

A relatively flat one-way trail, the Downs Link offers a fantastic way to experience Surrey and West Sussex at a more relaxed pace. Following the path of two former railway lines, the route takes cyclists through peaceful woodlands, river valleys and open fields, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the South Downs. Highlights include the charming village of Bramber, home to the historic Bramber Castle, and Shoreham Beach at the finish – perfect for a post-ride dip in the sea.

• Start/End: Guildford to Shoreham-by-Sea. Both have great rail connections, making this an easy point-to-point ride. Direct trains to Guildford run from London Waterloo, Reading and Portsmouth, so why not treat yourself to a refreshing night's sleep at the start or end of your ride?
• Distance: 60 km. Typically completed over one to two days.
• Difficulty: Moderate; suitable for most cyclists with a reasonable fitness level.

Starting and finishing at the fairytale Arundel Castle, this South Downs cycling route takes you through some of the region's most captivating landscapes. Rolling hills, quiet country lanes and riverside trails make for a ride that’s both scenic and satisfying. Pause in the picture-perfect village of Amberley, where thatched cottages and an open-air museum bring history to life, or grab a drink in one of Storrington’s cosy pubs. A final stretch along the meandering River Arun completes the circuit.

• Start/End: Arundel has direct train services from London and Brighton.
• Distance: 48 km
• Difficulty: Moderate. Local roads are relatively quiet.

The Great Sussex Way Wine Route blends scenic cycling with Sussex’s flourishing wine scene. Winding through rural countryside and charming villages, the route includes stops at some of the county's finest vineyards, including Tinwood Estate, Upperton Estate and Ashling Park. Each offers tastings and tours, where cyclists can sample award-winning English sparkling wines. Gentle hills and quiet country lanes make for a relaxed ride, with plenty of opportunities to soak in the views – and maybe take home a bottle or two.

• Start/End: Chichester District, West Sussex. Chichester is accessible by train.
• Distance: 72 km. Can be completed in a day or split over two days.
• Difficulty: Challenging due to distance and terrain; suitable for experienced cyclists.

The Ditchling Beacon Challenge is legendary among UK cyclists and features in the annual London to Brighton charity bike ride. Climbing to 248 m – the highest point in East Sussex – it’s one of the toughest South Downs cycling routes, with gradients of up to 16%. Starting in Lewes, a historic town packed with quirky pubs and independent shops, the route winds through rolling countryside before the final, leg-burning climb up the Beacon. At the top, riders are rewarded with breathtaking views across the South Downs.

• Start/End: Lewes to Ditchling Beacon. Lewes is a short train ride from Brighton or London.
• Distance: 24 km
• Difficulty: Hard. Best for experienced road cyclists who love a tough climb.

For those who prefer a more leisurely South Downs cycling route, the Cuckoo Trail is a traffic-free path built along an old railway line. The flat, well-paved surface makes it perfect for families, with plenty of scenic picnic spots along the way. Take a short detour to the Arlington Reservoir – a nature reserve on the Cuckmere River – where you can spot over 170 species of birds, including herons, kingfishers, woodpeckers, reed warblers and even ospreys.

• Start/End: Heathfield to Polegate
• Distance: 22 km
• Difficulty: Easy; great for families and beginners

The Meon Valley trail is perfect for cyclists looking to explore a little local history along the way. The route was once used for transporting livestock and produce between Fareham and Alton. Today, the trail passes through woodland and open fields, offering a peaceful ride away from busy roads. It should take around two hours to cycle the Meon Valley Trail, and it’s worth noting that this option is not a loop, so you’ll need to make your way back if you’ve left a car at the starting point.

• Start/End: Wickham to West Meon
• Distance: 18 km
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate gravel ride

The Seven Sisters Cycling Route offers an unforgettable ride along the stunning chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters, with sweeping views of the English Channel. This hilly route winds through the lush South Downs, passing picturesque villages like East Dean, before reaching Eastbourne’s Victorian seafront. While the climbs are challenging, the panoramic coastal vistas make every ascent worthwhile – and you're sure to get some epic photos.

• Start/End: Seaford to Eastbourne
• Distance: 32 km
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard

Whether you’re taking on the full length of the South Downs Way or just enjoying a relaxed ride through charming villages, there's no better way to explore this rolling landscape than from the saddle. The Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel and ibis Portsmouth Centre are both well positioned for exploring the national park, offering excellent accommodation and public transport links. All you have to do is decide which South Downs cycling route to tackle first!