The best traffic-free bike rides around Adur

There are 15 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in Adur featured in this guide, offering a range of distances and difficulties suitable for various skill levels.

Adur's no-traffic gravel routes primarily follow repurposed disused railway lines like the Downs Link, as well as bridleways, country lanes, and river towpaths. You'll encounter a mix of gravel, dirt, and short tarmac connectors, providing varied riding through coastal, riverine, and downland environments.

Yes, for an easy and relatively short ride, consider the Shoreham Old Toll Bridge – Downs Link along the River Adur loop from Adur. This route is just over 12 km and offers gentle gradients, perfect for a relaxed outing without traffic.

Many routes offer beautiful views of the South Downs and the River Adur. You can pass by the historic Shoreham Toll Bridge or enjoy the expansive vistas from the Downs Link — Adur riverside and Lancing College view. The Widewater Lagoon Beach Huts and Coastal Path also offers a unique coastal perspective.

Yes, several routes are circular. For example, the Downs Link along the River Adur – Downs Link at Botolphs loop from Shoreham-by-Sea is a moderate 43.7 km circular route that allows you to explore the Adur Valley without retracing your steps.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic gravel routes in Adur, with an average score of 4.58 stars. Riders often praise the peacefulness of the trails, the diverse scenery ranging from river estuaries to rolling downs, and the excellent network of car-free paths like the Downs Link.

For a more challenging ride, consider the Downs Link along the River Adur – View of the South Downs loop from Shoreham-by-Sea. This difficult route spans over 84 km with significant elevation changes, offering a full day's adventure through the South Downs.

Shoreham-by-Sea, a common starting point for many routes, has a train station with connections to Brighton and Worthing, making it convenient to access the Downs Link and other trails via public transport. Steyning also offers bus connections to nearby towns.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Adur, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but trails might be busier. Winter rides are possible, but some unpaved sections can become muddy, so check local conditions.

Yes, you can incorporate historical exploration into your ride. For instance, the Bramber Castle and High Street – Downs Link at Botolphs loop from Shoreham-by-Sea route passes near the ruins of Bramber Castle. Additionally, ancient hillforts like Chanctonbury Ring and Cissbury Ring, though not directly on all routes, offer panoramic views and historical context to the wider Adur landscape.

Absolutely. Many routes in Adur leverage the River Adur and its proximity to the South Downs. The South Downs Way Trail – Downs Link along the River Adur loop from Lancing is a great example, offering a blend of riverside paths and ascents into the rolling chalk hills of the national park.