Cycling

One of the best ways to explore the South East of England is by bicycle. Not only do you get to experience the beautiful cities, coastal scenery and countryside first hand, but you get to enjoy some wonderful fresh air and healthy exercise, as well as helping the environment at the same time. Now more than ever, taking to two wheels is a great way to explore our landscapes.

The network of traffic free cycle paths, bridleways and quiet country lanes all contribute to literally 100s of miles of great cycling routes across South East England. And there are plenty of guilt-free pub stops thrown in too!

For families wanting a quiet day out with the children, the traffic free cycle routes provide a safe haven for youngsters just learning to ride, whilst the roads that hosted the Olympic althetes back in the summer of 2012 and the hilly off road routes across the South Downs a great challenge for the experienced rider.

Here are some of South East England's two wheeled highlights for your to explore -

• The ride through Windsor Great Park, Berkshire has the added bonus of spectacular views of Windsor Castle.  With its 17 miles of smooth roads and paths there are plenty of routes to discover for all abilities. Windsor Great Park is on the National Cycle Route 4
• Why not try Cuckoo Trail from Polegate to Heathfield in 1066 Country being mainly off-road it is suitable and safe for people of all ages and abilities.  Or try the longer Rye to Winchelsea 20 mile circular route if you want more of a challenge.
• The (nearly) traffic free Red Squirrel trail from East Cowes to Sandown and Shanklin on the Isle of Wight provides a great way to explore the island starting from where you disembark the Red Funnel ferry. Or for those looking for more of a challenge why not try the full round the island cycle route - 65 miles of stunning coastal scenery and a few hills along the way.
• For the off road enthusiast the South Downs Way National Park, linking the 100 miles from Winchester to Eastbourne on the south coast, provides a more than challenging ride, download the mountain bike guide before you begin.
• For some history, take the Tudor Trail from Tonbridge to Penshurst Place in Kent.
• Head out along the upgraded river path between Aylesford Bridge to Barming Bridge in Kent, with a well earned break in the county town of Maidstone.

• Head to Alice Holt Forest, Farnham in Hampshire with their family friendly 3 mile cycle trail its a great place to build skills and confidence.
• Heading out and about in West Sussex, try the unique West Sussex County Council journey planner, click your starting point, end point and it will give you three different routes to follow, quietest, fastest or balanced.  Try from Bognor Regis to Littlehampton for starters.
• Discover the new King Alfreds Way, the 220 mile off-road route has taken charity Cycling UK three years to create and takes riders through 10,000 years of history, starting and finishing at Winchester and passing through the heart of Hampshire, as well as neighbouring Wiltshire, Surrey and Berkshire countryside. The route connects four of England’s National Trails: North Downs Way, South Downs Way, Ridgeway and Thames Path. 
• Head out from Worthing, Sussex and enjoy the 11 mile route along the coast from Worthing Peir to Shoreham Fort.
• Discover National Cycle Network route one from Dover to Sandwich, which takes in three famous castles along the way.  This well signed route has a long steep climb up to the top of white cliffs of Dover after which is downhill to Deal. You can easily link up with National Cycle Network route 2 and head onto Hastings.
• Alternatively, why not experience the New Forest National Park with its unique landscape that has been shaped over the centuries by grazing ponies, cattle and pigs which roam free. The New Forest has a wealth of cycle routes for all ages and abilities and free parking nearby.

• The Viking Coastal Trail in Kent, is a 32 mile circular cycle routes taking in the coast of Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate before heading inland through the surrounding villages.
• Head out in the Hampshire countryside from Winklebury to Hannington on this scenic 21 mile loop, or one of the shorter 8 mile discovery trails in and around Basingstoke.
• Sustrans cycle routes 4,5 and 23 go through the Berkshire town of Reading, making it an idea base to head out and explore the Chilterns and along the Kennet and Avon canal.

If you fancy half a day or a day away amongst incredible scenery, traditional English villages, historical sites, hidden valleys, woodlands and heaths then let The Surrey Explorer take you on one of his many all inclusive guided bike tours in the Surrey Hills AONB. Bikes, helmets, water and snacks will be provided so all you need to do is turn up.

We encourage you to enjoy the countryside at every opportunity, it is so good for our well being. However, whilst you are out and about remember to follow the Countryside Code.  RESPECT - PROTECT - ENJOY. This code contains advice for the public and landowners, making it easier for visitors to help respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors. 

There is plenty of urban help out there if you are looking to cycle around your town or city.  Take a look at the Portsmouth cycle map showing low traffic roads in the city.  Many major towns and cities have these available to help make your two wheeled adventures as safe and enjoyable as possible.  Use our stay local, support local page to link to the offical destination website within your area.

Cycle Hire

For best results, contact one of the cycle touring companies below and they will give expert advice on the routes most suited to you. Maps, locks and helmets are usually provided.

• Forest Leisure Cycling, New Forest
  Ideally located in the heart of the New Forest, choose from nine cycle routes including an old railway, deer sanctuary and woodland trails with cream teas a-plenty.
• Southern Ebike Rentals, West Sussex
  We think electric bikes are the best way of seeing the spectacular South Downs and New Forest National Parks.
• UK Electric Bike Tours & Hire, Kent
  Enjoy self guided or scheduled tours. The electric bikes are comfortable, reliabile and have a large battery range so suitable for all fitness levels.

Cycling Tours

Embrace the South East in an active way with a cycling tour.  Whether travelling alone or in a couple or family your find some great tours around Oxford and the Cotswolds.

Tour of Britain comes to Isle of Wight

The Tour of Britain races to the Isle of Wight on Sunday 11th September 2022, starting from Ryde and finishing with an exhilarating climb for the title at the Needles Battery finish line. Spectators at Ryde can expect over 100 pro riders on the Stage 8 start line, including the top British domestic teams, a GBR national team as well as multiple Tour de France winners - making the Tour of Britain one of the biggest sporting events the Island has ever seen.

Best places to go cycling

From country parks to waymarked trails, take a look at some of the best locations for cycling in the south of England and see what's near you for a holiday or day out.