Firle, Folkington and Charleston loop — South Downs National Park

Head to the northeastern end of the South Downs National Park, where you'll be treated to views of the towering downs from below, a wide open section of the South Downs Way and a glimpse into the grounds of Charleston, a modernist home associated with the Bloomsbury group.

From Glynde station, you'll head through the charming village of Firle then join the Old Coach Road, part of the original historic track between Brighton and Eastbourne.

Just north of Alfriston is a steep climb onto Windover and Wilmington Hills on the South Downs Way. This open section of cycling provides fabulous panoramic views out to sea.

From Folkington, you'll join a woodland path that descends to Wilmington, home of the 'Long Man', a giant figure carved into the steep hillside just outside the village.

The last section of the route follows a new traffic-free cycleway that runs alongside the A27. Although you can hear the hum of the road, it's an excellent smooth route providing wonderful views of the rolling South Downs.

Finally, you'll join a bridleway that runs through the picturesque grounds of Charleston before skirting around Firle Park to arrive back at Glynde.

The Tour follows a section of the South Downs Way as well as The Wealdway, a long-distance hiking path through the Weald of Kent and Sussex.

The vast majority of the route is traffic-free, and the off-road sections are a mixture of tarmac, bumpy earth and grassy fields. Some of the bridleways can get a bit muddy after rain, so this Tour is best in dry weather. I'd recommend using a mountain or gravel bike.

There are some excellent pitstops on this journey. The first is The Ram pub and village shop in Firle. Just after halfway is the Long Man pub in Wilmington. As you near the end of your adventure, be sure to save yourself for the hidden gem, Caccia and Tails cafe at Charleston, where delightful Italian street food awaits. They even have a fridge stocked with local ales.

Glynde station is served by trains from Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings. Change at Lewes for trains to London. There's a free car park next to the station on the north side.