The best road cycling routes around Adur

Adur offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 35 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging climbs.

Adur's road cycling routes feature diverse terrain. You'll find challenging climbs and rolling landscapes in the chalk downlands of the South Downs to the north, gentle riverside paths along the River Adur, and flatter coastal routes to the south. The region offers a mix of paved surfaces and dedicated cycle paths.

Yes, the South Downs National Park, which borders Adur to the north, provides significant climbs and rewarding descents. Routes like the Steyning and Ditchling Beacon loop from Southwick offer substantial elevation gain and expansive views, ideal for experienced riders.

Absolutely. Adur has several easy, mostly paved routes perfect for beginners or family outings. The Botolphs and Sompting loop from Shoreham-by-Sea is an easy option, offering a gentle ride through the Adur Valley. Coastal routes, such as the Hove Lawns Promenade – Brighton Palace Pier loop from Fishersgate, also provide flat, accessible rides.

Adur's routes are rich with scenic points. You can pass by the historic Shoreham Toll Bridge, cycle along the tranquil Adur Estuary, or spot the striking Lancing College Chapel. The South Downs offer panoramic views, while coastal routes provide vistas of the English Channel and features like the Widewater Lagoon Beach Huts.

Yes, many of Adur's road cycling routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Steyning and Poynings loop from Shoreham-by-Sea, which takes you through the South Downs, and the Bramber Castle and High Street – View of Shoreham Estuary loop from Southwick.

Parking is generally available in towns like Shoreham-by-Sea and Southwick, which serve as common starting points for many routes. For specific parking information related to the South Downs National Park, you may find details on the official South Downs website.

Shoreham-by-Sea and other towns in Adur are well-connected by train and bus services, making it possible to access many cycling routes via public transport. The Downs Link, a popular cycling path, is also part of National Cycle Network Route 223, offering good connectivity.

The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Adur, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the diverse terrain means that routes along the Adur Valley and coastal paths can be enjoyable year-round, weather permitting.

Many routes in Adur pass through or near charming villages and towns like Steyning and Shoreham-by-Sea, where you can find cafes and pubs for refreshment stops. The Shoreham Wooden Bridge – Bramber Castle and High Street loop from Southwick, for instance, takes you past Bramber, which has local amenities.

The road cycling routes in Adur are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied scenery, from the dramatic South Downs to the tranquil Adur Valley and coastal paths, and the options available for different ability levels.

Adur offers several excellent viewpoints. Mill Hill Local Nature Reserve provides outstanding views across Shoreham, the sea, and the wider South Downs. Additionally, the Downs Link — Adur riverside and Lancing College view offers picturesque vistas of the river and the iconic Lancing College Chapel.

While Adur itself offers many routes, the region is adjacent to the South Downs National Park, which features the 160 km South Downs Way. Although primarily a multi-terrain path, sections and connecting roads allow for longer road cycling excursions. The Downs Link also provides a 59km path that can be incorporated into longer rides.