Cycling the Eastern Downs: best rides this Autumn and Winter
November 2, 2022
The open Eastern Downs and chalk valleys region is an area of contrasts.
From wide open spaces to remote hidden valleys, expansive arable fields to sheep-grazed downland and pebble beaches.
Curving hills studded with ancient earthworks roll away into the distance under big skies, giving generous views across fields to the sea.
With 1,200 kilometres of public bridleways across the National Park, cyclists are really spoilt for choice. Whether you’re a serious mud junkie or enjoy a gentle pedal, this is a great way to get the wind in your hair and explore England’s youngest National Park.
South Downs by Bike is a series of curated cycle routes taking in the Eastern Downs. The best thing? There’s something for everyone, regardless of ability.
We’ve picked out our top three routes for you to cycle this Autumn.
For elevation junkies
Photo credit: Rathfinny Estate
Pushing up those steep slopes isn’t for everyone (especially in the colder months) but this route is definitely made for those who like their ups as well as their Downs.
Beginning in Southease and ending in Berwick, the route starts from Southeast station and takes you onto the South Downs Way up Iptford Hill.
The route will then take you through Firle where you can stop at The Beanstalk Tea Garden before heading onto the historic village of Alfriston.
From there, the route is on grass and chalk tracks the whole way to Alfriston. Nearby is Rathfinny Vineyard, the largest vineyard in the region and producer of exceptional Sussex Sparkling Wine.
From here its a short distance to the rides end at Berwick where it meets the Vanguard way.
Follow the artists
This circular, beginning and ending at Berwick Station, is curated for those looking to go at a leisurely pace and to make a day of it.
This area has long been a favourite for artists and not far from Firle Village lies Charleston House – once home to the Bloomsbury set and now a venue for exhibitions, festivals and events.
From here the ride traces the foot of the scarp slope through arable farmland and back to Berwick via Alfriston.
At the end of the ride, enjoy a well earned drink and meal beside a nice fire in Berwick’s Cricketers Arms, a lovely country cottage pub.
Vineyards and Queen Vic
This ride snakes along the bottom of the scarp along gravel paths and small country roads.
Starting in Berwick, this ride will take you into the market town of Lewes, famous for bonfires, battles and Harvey’s beer.
As well as following briefly in the wagon wheels of the Romans, you enjoy wonderful views of the V-shaped woodland, planted on the slopes above Streat to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, and pedal through a rare chalk stream habitat, home to newts, frogs and Britain’s largest beetle.
Once you reach Lewes, feel free to head back in the same direction or stick to one of the many, many pubs Lewes is famous for, including The Rights of Man, named after the seminal work of Thomas Paine, who inspired the Founding Fathers of the United States of America to revolt against British rule.
Not planning on heading to the Eastern Downs? Fear not, there are plenty of routes and rides to be found across the stretch of the South Downs.