Cycling in West Sussex: Best Routes, Coastal Trails & South Downs Rides
Discover the best cycling routes in West Sussex. From the iconic South Downs Way to flat, family‑friendly coastal cycles paths around Chichester Harbour, the Manhood Peninsula and the Witterings. Whether you’re looking for mountain biking challenges, scenic family friendly cycles routes or ebike‑friendly ride, this guide highlights the top places to explore by bicycle.
South Downs Cycling Routes
The epic South Downs Way which traverses the entire South Downs National Park from West to East is an epic challenge for serious cyclists, standing at 100 miles long and with a mixture of steep ascents and descents and off-road terrain. The National Park itself provides plentiful opportunities to explore by bike and see the variety of scenery while tackling a range of terrain. Electric bike rental from Southern eBike Rentals allows for bikes to be dropped off and collected at a prearranged location, or from their pop up hire centre at Ashling Park Estate Vineyard. They also have plenty of suggested routes you can follow and you can read their top ten tips for mountain biking in the South Downs. More great cycle routes here.
Coastal Cycling near Chichester Harbour
Flatter terrain can be found around Chichester Harbour and on the Manhood Peninsula south of Chichester. There’s a good selection of routes here to be explored, from Salterns Way which connects Chichester to West Wittering beach, and Bill Way (Route 88) which leads from the city to RSPB Pagham Harbour, to a circular trail which leads cyclists around the harbour, exploring the water-side villages and even crossing the water on the small ferry which runs from Itchenor to Bosham. Southern eBike Rental's pop up hire ebike centre at Concierge Camping makes it an ideal location to cycle Salterns Way.
Family Friendly Cycling Routes
For easily accessible family cycling, Centurion Way is ideal. Starting in Chichester just south of the city centre, the trail is mostly flat with the odd hill. The terrain is not too challenging and there is lots to see along the way including the former railway station at Singleton and the Chichester 'road gang' sculptures.
Cycling friendly accommodation in Bosham
The Millstream Hotel in the beautiful village of Bosham offers the perfect base for cyclists. Tucked away at the back of the property, the hotel features a secure, alarmed bike store equipped with racks for your bikes and a dedicated space to hang outdoor clothing and helmets. Whether you're out for a leisurely ride or a more adventurous route, you can relax knowing your gear is safely stored onsite.
Cycling near Chichester
Centurion Way is a flat, accessible cycle and walking path which begins in the centre of Chichester and ends in the village of West Dean, close to West Dean Gardens. In total the route is 9km and includes an easy-access trail of 1.5km.
Cycling near Amberley
Amberley is a chocolate-box Sussex village dotted with thatched and flint cottages and sits on the River Arun. There are a variety of bike tracks and routes to explore in the area, and excellent views to enjoy from Bignor Hill on this ride here.
Cycling at Black Down
Black Down is the highest point in the South Downs National Park, and the views from here are more than worth making the climb for. Please ensure you stick the bridleways or designated bike trails on your bike while exploring Black Down, avoiding the footpaths due to the fragile heathland habitats which can be destroyed by cycling on this terrain. Look for the bridleway or cycle path signposts or check out your route on an OS Map.
With so many trails to choose from, we’ve narrowed some of our favourite cycling routes in West Sussex and Chichester area:
Cycle Rides near Amberley and Bignor Hill (5miles and 11.5miles)
Discover the pretty village of Amberley and the challenge of Bignor Hill on the South Downs Way with your choice of several routes in this stunning West Sussex location, mapped by the South Downs National Park. These routes suit a range of riders, from the novice to experienced, with routes varying from 5 to 11.5 miles on a mix off road and road sections. The longer trails explore parts of the South Downs Way - a cycle route every dedicated rider needs to experience with steep ascents and descents and breathtaking views across Sussex, with plenty of places to stop and refresh along the way. A trail leaflet is downloadable courtesy of South Downs National Park.
Graffham and Cocking cycle loop from Midhurst (21 miles)
This is a moderate 21.3 mile (34.3km) route through the South Downs National Park, with around 869 feet (265 metres) of climbing and a typical ride time of 2 hours 4 minutes. Starting and finishing in historic Midhurst, the loop takes in rolling hills, ancient woodland and open farmland, along with picturesque villages and thatched cottages. Riders pass close to Graffham Common Nature Reserve, a 38 hectare haven for local wildlife. Mostly paved, with some climbs typical of the South Downs' chalk hills, this route suits cyclists after a scenic ride with a bit of a challenge, and Midhurst's independent cafes are perfect for refuelling before or after.
Itchenor & Bosham circular cycle route (14 miles)
Looking for scenic cycle routes near Chichester? This 14 mile (23km) trail takes you from the historic Market Cross in Chichester city centre out to the pretty harbourside villages of Bosham and Itchenor, hugging the shoreline of Chichester Harbour along the way. Suitable for all abilities and bike types, it's one of the most rewarding cycle routes in West Sussex for anyone wanting a mix of gentle countryside riding and coastal views. Along the route you'll pass through charming waterside villages, with plenty of welcoming pubs and cafes to stop off at for refreshments and a well earned break. One of the highlights is crossing between Bosham and Itchenor aboard the small foot ferry, adding a lovely bit of variety to the ride. Whether you're after a half day outing or a leisurely full day exploring the harbour, this route makes for a memorable addition to any list of cycle routes near Chichester.
The Great Sussex Way Wine Route
Discover four of the South Downs National Park's most welcoming vineyards on our self-guided wine route. Whether you fancy a relaxed morning, a full afternoon, or an overnight stay or two, this trail is entirely yours to shape, with plenty of time for leisurely lunches or a stop at the farm shops along the way. Cyclists after gentler terrain will love the flat Tinwood to Ashling Park stretch, while the more ambitious can aim to complete the full route in a day (lunch stop included). Prefer four wheels? The drive is just as scenic, and makes a lovely excuse to extend your visit with a stop at Blackdown Ridge Estate, known for its warm cellar door welcome.
The South Downs Way (100 miles)
Beginning in Winchester and stretching 100 miles to Eastbourne in East Sussex, the South Downs Way is an epic cycling adventure. Suitable only for mountain bikes, you'll tackle 3.800 metres of ascent, and you should plan to spend 2-4 days completing your challenge. You can also explore the South Downs Way in smaller sections, connecting at locations like Harting Down, Cocking Hill or Bignor Hill, which is ideal for family cycling adventures. Help is on hand with local Mountain Biking experts Marmalade MTB offering guided rides of the South Downs Way, or you could hire e-Bikes from Southern e-Bike Rentals to help assist up those difficult hills.
If you're searching for family friendly cycle routes in West Sussex, you're in the right place. The south of the county is largely flat, making it wonderful territory for gentle cycle paths and leisurely rides, whether you fancy a relaxed pootle or some rural bike based flâneuring.
Below are three of our favourite West Sussex cycle routes, each fully signposted and suited to riders of all abilities.
1. Centurion Way (8 miles)
One of the most popular cycle routes in West Sussex, this mostly flat trail runs for around 13km (8 miles). It has recently been extended to reach the pretty hamlet of Singleton, taking in the former railway station there and passing Cucumber Farm Bridge along the way. There are plans for the route to eventually link up with the South Downs Way at Cocking, near Midhurst. A 1.5km stretch of Centurion Way is designated easy access trail, with a wheelchair ramp into West Dean village, where you'll find the Village Stores and Tea Room and The Selsey Arms pub.
2. Salterns Way (12 miles)
Among the best known cycle paths Sussex has to offer, Salterns Way is largely car-free and flat throughout, running for 12 miles (19km) between Chichester and West Wittering beach. The fully signposted route mostly follows quiet rural roads and cycle paths through open countryside, making it a great choice for families and anyone after a leisurely ride. The only busier stretch comes right at the start, leaving Chichester city centre. Push on through and you're rewarded with the golden sands of West Wittering beach and the beautiful East Head nature reserve.
3. Route 88 (8 miles one way)
Better known locally as Bill Way, this signposted route runs one way from central Chichester to RSPB Pagham Harbour, a distance of around 8 miles. You can start from either the Market Cross or Chichester Canal Basin, with the trail running largely off-road from there all the way to the Visitor Centre at RSPB Pagham Harbour. Stop to take in the reserve's wildlife, or press on along the newer cycle path linking RSPB Pagham Harbour to RSPB Medmerry. From there you can ride the full loop around Medmerry, pausing along the way for the views and birdlife.
Whichever route you choose, these cycle routes Sussex has on offer make for a brilliant day out, on two wheels, at your own pace.
If you're looking for cycle hire in West Sussex, there are plenty of options to suit every kind of trip, from self-serve city bikes to fully guided e-bike hire.
Southern E-Bike Rentals
For a more effortless ride, Southern E-Bike Rentals offers ebike hire in Sussex with a convenient delivery service to your chosen location, or collection from their rental centre at Concierge Camping. E-bikes are perfect for exploring scenic trails away from busy roads, and Southern E-Bikes provides all the gear you need for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Ebike-Centre
Ebike-Centre hires out leisure e-bikes and eMTBs for exploring the South Downs and Chichester Harbour, ideal if you're after bike rentals Chichester Harbour way. Whether you fancy a gentle coastal cycle path or a woodland bridleway, they can point you in the right direction.
Southwater Cycles
Based in Loxwood, near Billingshurst, Southwater Cycles offers a large bike hire fleet including mountain bikes, tandems, hybrids and children's bikes. They're situated right on the Drungewick Lane cycle route, which links to the Wey and Arun Canal Path and the Downslink Cycle Route towards Guildford and Shoreham, making them a great base for family cycle hire outings further into the Sussex countryside.
App-Bike
A self-serve bike hire scheme operating in and around the Chichester area. Chichester and the surrounding areas are ideal for cycle hire near Chichester, thanks to a good network of cycle routes and flat terrain. You can rent an App-Bike from just £2.50 per hour, or there's a maximum daily charge of £15 per bike. Pick up, explore and lock the bike wherever you like, then simply return it to one of the designated hubs to end your rental. All you need to do is download and register with the free App-Bike app, where you can also find and follow cycle routes. More information can be found at www.app-bike.co.uk. App-Bike can also supply and deliver bikes and e-bikes for longer term and group rentals; call 01892 320270 or email info@activecyclingprojects.com to discuss your requirements.
Want to uncover hidden cycling gems and local cycling routes near Chichester? Why not try a guided cycling tour or attend a cycling event in West Sussex? Whether you're taking on the hills of the South Downs, pedalling along peaceful coastal routes, or meeting people who love pedal-power, here's a few to get your started:
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Join a family friendly guided eBike ride along Centurion Way, a national cycling trail that leads from Chichester to the South Downs National Park on traffic free lanes and trails among beautiful scenery. We begin less than 5 mins from the Centurion Way so we can be…
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An unforgettable powered eBike & walking tour of Kingley Vale Nature Reserve, Europe's finest yew tree forest! Part of the South Downs National Park, this world class mosaic of natural habitats is home to amazing wildlife, an ancient yew forest & rare plants…
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West Sussex offers a mix of coastal, countryside and South Downs routes. Popular options include Salterns Way, Centurion Way, the Bill Way (Route 88), and sections of the South Downs Way for more challenging rides.
Is Salterns Way suitable for families?
Yes. Salterns Way is mostly flat, well‑signposted and ideal for families, with plenty of places to stop around Chichester Harbour and West Wittering.
Where can I hire bikes or ebikes in West Sussex?
Local hire options include outlets to pick up App Bikes at Itchenor, Chichester Harbour, Fishbourne Roman Palace at Chichester, at RSPB Pagham Harbour on the Manhood Peninsula. Local e-Bike hire is available via Southern e-Bike rentals who can also provide trail advice.
Can you cycle the South Downs Way?
Yes, you can cycle the entire 100 miles of the South Downs Way - it’s a demanding route with steep climbs and varied terrain. Many cyclists tackle it in sections, starting from Amberley, Cocking or Bignor Hill.
Where can I stop for food and drink on cycling routes?
