The best MTB trails around Fittleworth

There are over 100 mountain bike trails around Fittleworth, offering a wide range of options within the South Downs National Park. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy riverside paths to challenging climbs.

Yes, Fittleworth offers a good selection of easy mountain bike trails, with 28 routes suitable for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Greatham Bridge – View of the River Arun loop from Pulborough, which is an easy 34.5 km ride offering scenic views of the River Arun and is suitable for all fitness levels.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 10 difficult mountain bike routes around Fittleworth. The Graffham Down Nature Reserve – Cadence Café loop from Duncton is a demanding 51.3 km trail that requires advanced skills and very good fitness, often involving pushing your bike on some sections. Another challenging option is the Graffham Down Nature Reserve – Selhurst Park Viewpoint loop from Duncton.

Many trails in the Fittleworth area offer stunning views. The Unicorn MTB Trail – View of Arundel Castle loop from Duncton provides picturesque glimpses of the historic Arundel Castle. You can also find far-reaching views from the Bignor Hill summit and Roman road signpost, which is accessible from several routes, and the impressive Chantry Hill viewpoint.

Absolutely. The trails often weave through areas rich in history and natural beauty. You can ride past the ancient Burton Mill Pond and Mill, or explore the Burton and Chingford Ponds Local Nature Reserve. The area also features the Bignor Hill summit and Roman road signpost, a site of historical interest on the ancient Stane Street.

The terrain around Fittleworth is diverse, reflecting its location within the South Downs National Park. Riders can expect a mix of firm tracks, sandy paths, and woodland trails. Depending on the weather, some sections may be muddy. The landscape includes rolling countryside, chalk ridges, and river valleys, providing varied experiences from flowing singletrack to technical descents and climbs.

The mountain biking experience in Fittleworth is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Riders frequently praise the varied terrain, the stunning views of the South Downs, and the mix of challenging climbs and enjoyable descents. The opportunity to explore natural reserves and historical landmarks is also a highlight for many.

Yes, the Fittleworth area is intersected by the Serpent Trail, a 103 km footpath that winds through the countryside. While primarily a hiking trail, sections of it can be suitable for mountain biking, offering opportunities to explore diverse landscapes and wild woodlands, such as Hesworth Common.

Many trails around Fittleworth pass through beautiful woodlands and forests. For example, the Barlavington Estate, Heyshott and Graffham Commons loop — South Downs National Park navigates through varied landscapes, including significant woodland sections. Hesworth Common, part of the Serpent Trail, also offers wild, dramatic woodland paths.

Fittleworth offers good mountain biking conditions for much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, though trails can be dusty. During winter, some paths may become muddy, especially in woodland areas, but the firm tracks and chalk ridges generally remain rideable.

Beyond the rolling hills of the South Downs, Fittleworth is home to some unique natural features. Fittleworth Common hosts the incredible Wynkcoombe Arboretum, with over 800 rare trees and shrubs. The area around Coates Castle is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), known for being the habitat of the entire remaining British population of the Field Cricket.