Cycling Rides: Top 9 Brighton Bike Routes
Cycling Rides: Top 9 Brighton Bike Routes
Cycling Rides: Top 9 Brighton Bike Routes
Preston Park Velodrome by Nicola under license CC BY-SA 3.0
In this post, we highlight some of the best Brighton bike routes from the city seafront into the Sussex countryside! Cycling is a great way to get around Brighton. Not only is it environmentally friendly, but it's also a lot of fun. There are plenty of bike paths throughout the city, so you can easily explore all that Brighton has to offer on two wheels. Plus, cycling is a great workout, so you can burn some calories while you sightsee. If you're visiting Brighton, be sure to cycle around town! You won't regret it.
You can test your cycling track skills around the Preston Park Velodrome, take in the sights and sounds of the seaside along the Brighton to Rottingdean route, or test your mountain biking skills at the award-winning Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest!
Cycling in Brighton: The Top Routes You Need To Ride On!
The table above lists all the best bike routes in Brighton. Click on each name to be taken straight to the part of the blog post for that route.
There's no better way to explore the sunny south east coast than on two wheels! Have a look below at the cycle routes listed on the interactive map and click on the buttons below the map for each route, for further information before you travel.
Brighton to Rottingdean
Anyone looking for a great cycling experience should definitely cycle from Brighton to Rottingdean along the Undercliff. The route is relatively flat, making it perfect for all levels of cyclists, and the scenery is simply stunning. For 6.7 miles, riders will enjoy picturesque views of the sea as they make their way along the coast, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the sounds of the sea. Best of all, the entire journey can be completed in just a couple of hours, making it the perfect day trip. So if you're looking for a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors, be sure to cycle this route. You won't be disappointed!
Brighton to Worthing
Heading in the opposite direction is the Brighton to Worthing cycle route. Following the Nacional Cycle Route 2, you'll head along the Sussex coastline for around 13 miles. There are some sections on minor roads but for most of the journey, the route is traffic-free. Start at Brighton Pier and make your journey westerly until you come to Worthing for a well-deserved rest.
Shoreham to Bramber Castle
If you're looking for a great place to go cycling, you can't go wrong with the waterside path along the River Adur from Shoreham to Bramber Castle. The scenery is beautiful with plenty of picture opportunities along the way. Best of all, the cycling is excellent. The route is well-maintained and mostly flat with a small climb at the end towards the castle. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, you'll find this an enjoyable route.
Preston Park Velodrome
The Preston Park Velodrome is one of the best places to go cycling in the area offering cyclists a unique racing experience. The track is the oldest cycle track in England but is well-maintained and offers a variety of challenges for cyclists of all skill levels. In addition, the facility is located in a beautiful park that is perfect for a leisurely ride or an intense workout. To use the race track is free but sometimes the track may be booked out for training by local cycle clubs so hopefully you won't be disappointed when you arrive.
Woodhams Bridge, Cuckoo Trail by Paul Farmer under license CC BY-SA 4.0
The Cuckoo Trail
If you're looking for somewhere to enjoy a scenic cycle, look no further than the 14-mile-long 'Cuckoo Trail'. Surrounded by stunning countryside, this picturesque trail follows the old Cuckoo Railway Line from Heathfield to Shinewater Park. The gentle gradient makes it ideal for all levels of fitness, and there are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. Best of all, the trail is mostly traffic-free, so you can enjoy a peaceful cycle without having to worry about cars. So why not dust off your bike and give the Cuckoo Trail a try? You won't be disappointed.
MTB: Friston Forest
There's nothing quite like a day out on the mountain bike trails. And if you're looking for a great place to ride, look no further than Friston Forest. With two waymarked routes and miles of trails to explore, there's something for everyone here. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, you'll find plenty of challenges to keep you entertained.
MTB: Devil's Dyke
Devil's Dyke is one of the best places to go mountain biking in Brighton. The trails move across the Devil's Dyke estate and offer a variety of difficulty levels, so there's something for everyone. The views from the top of the dyke are stunning, and it's a great way to get some fresh air and exercise. And if you get tired, there are pubs within the villages at the lower reaches where you can refuel before heading back up to start again!
Cyclists on the South Downs Way by Oast House Archive under license CC BY-SA 4.0
MTB: South Downs Way
The South Downs Way is one of the most popular mountain bike trails in the United Kingdom, and it's easy to see why. The trail offers a stunning view of the Sussex and Hampshire countryside along its full 100 miles. Plus, there are plenty of places to stop along the way so you can take in the scenery or grab a bite to eat. If you're looking for an enjoyable mountain biking experience, the South Downs Way is the perfect place to start.
MTB: Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest
Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest is an award-winning visitor attraction, and for good reason. The 13 km of trails are impeccably maintained and offer a variety of routes to suit all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you'll be able to find a trail that challenges you. Nestled in the heart of the Kent countryside, Bedgebury is an oasis of peace and tranquility. So if you're looking for an invigorating and rewarding mountain biking experience, look no further than Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest.
Final Thoughts on Brighton's Best Cycle Routes
As we reach the end of our journey through Brighton's best cycle paths, it's clear that this city is a haven for cyclists. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the diverse range of bike routes offers something for everyone. From the scenic seaside views on the Brighton to Rottingdean cycling route to the exhilarating bike rides through the South Downs Way, each path has its unique charm.
Brighton's commitment to creating and maintaining these cycle paths makes it a true cyclist's paradise. The joy of pedaling along these routes is not just in the exercise or the beautiful landscapes, but also in the sense of community among the people you meet along the way. The city's bike routes are more than just paths; they are connectors that bring together people from all walks of life, united by their love for cycling.
In conclusion, whether you're leisurely riding along a serene cycle path or challenging yourself on a rugged cycling route, Brighton offers an unparalleled experience. So grab your bikes, hit the trails, and discover why Brighton is celebrated as one of the best cycling destinations.
In this blog post, we have shared some of the best cycle routes in Brighton. To find out more about things to do in this area, click on the buttons below:
Please note...
All outdoor activities including cycling involve a degree of risk. The routes are recommended due to the well known features of each route but this may change over time and further research is required before undertaking any activity. The weather can also impact the surface and general conditions of each route so please keep yourself updated with the weather forecast before setting off to enjoy your cycle!
Crown Copyright, courtesy Forestry Commission (05/10/22) licensed under the Open Government License.