The best gravel rides around Balcombe Forest
4.7
(12)
83
riders
11
rides
Gravel biking around Balcombe Forest offers a network of trails primarily traversing dense woodlands and varied forest tracks within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region features gently rolling terrain, providing a mix of surfaces suitable for gravel bikes, often following established paths and bridleways. This area is characterized by extensive wooded areas and undulating landscapes, offering diverse experiences for cyclists.
Best gravel bike trails around Balcombe Forest
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Worth Way – Forest Way Country Park loop from Three Bridges, a 19.7 miles (31.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 46 minutes to complete. This route offers a mix of dedicated cycle paths and forest sections.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Worth Way – Forest Way Cycle Path loop from Three Bridges, a moderate 30.4 miles (48.9 km) path. This trail leads through established cycle paths and forest edges.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Forest Way – Worth Way loop from Crawley, a 43.9 miles (70.8 km) trail leading through varied woodlands and open country, often completed in about 3 hours 57 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Balcombe Forest is defined by dense woodlands, varied forest tracks, and connecting cycle paths. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Balcombe Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 80 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Balcombe Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.3
(3)
16
riders
34.1km
02:04
230m
230m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
8
riders
48.9km
02:47
410m
410m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(4)
47
riders
70.8km
03:56
450m
450m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
4
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Lovely route to ride
0
0
If only all old railways could be a good as this one. Whitstable to Folkestone on the Canterbury South is on my hitlist!!
0
0
Longer if you are travelling from the north towards Ardingly but gradual enough to get into a decent rhythm apart from the traffic at peak times.
0
0
A pleasant cafe with a basic menu, bacon and egg sandwiches, some cakes, and hot and cold drinks. She also sells plants and her cat is the friendliest! Open Thursday through Sunday 10am to 4pm (as of July '24)
2
0
On your way to Brighton, Mary's bacon sandwiches will keep you going! Definitely worth stopping!
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Balcombe Forest?
Balcombe Forest offers a selection of over 15 gravel bike trails, providing a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking in Balcombe Forest?
The trails in Balcombe Forest cater to a range of abilities. You'll find 2 easy routes perfect for beginners, 7 moderate routes for those with some experience, and 7 challenging difficult routes for more advanced riders.
Are there any family-friendly gravel bike routes in Balcombe Forest?
Yes, Balcombe Forest has easy routes suitable for families. These trails typically feature gentler terrain and established paths, making them enjoyable for riders of all ages. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' on komoot.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Balcombe Forest?
You can expect a mix of dense woodlands and varied forest tracks. The region features gently rolling terrain, with routes often following established paths and bridleways, connecting different sections of the forest and surrounding areas.
Are there any circular gravel routes in Balcombe Forest?
Many of the popular gravel bike routes in Balcombe Forest are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Worth Way – Forest Way Country Park loop from Three Bridges is a great circular option.
What are some longer gravel biking options around Balcombe Forest?
For a longer ride, consider the Forest Way – Worth Way loop from Crawley, which spans over 70 km and takes approximately 5 hours 27 minutes to complete. Another substantial option is the West Grinstead Station – West Grinstead Station Section loop from Haywards Heath, covering 53.4 km.
Where can I find parking for gravel cycling in Balcombe Forest?
Parking availability varies depending on your chosen starting point. Many routes, such as those starting from Three Bridges or Worth, often have nearby public parking facilities. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for parking recommendations before you set off.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Balcombe Forest?
Gravel biking in Balcombe Forest is enjoyable year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter rides can be atmospheric, though some trails might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before your ride.
Are there any advanced gravel trails for experienced riders?
Yes, Balcombe Forest offers several challenging routes for experienced gravel bikers. The Worth Way – Forest Way Country Park loop from Worth is a difficult 42.8 km trail featuring varied terrain through woodlands and open country park sections, ideal for advanced riders.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about Balcombe Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 15 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse forest tracks, the well-connected cycle paths, and the overall natural beauty of the region, making it a rewarding experience for gravel bikers.
Can I find routes that combine dedicated cycle paths with forest sections?
Absolutely. Many routes in Balcombe Forest expertly blend dedicated cycle paths with more rugged forest sections. The Worth Way – Forest Way Cycle Path loop from Three Bridges is a prime example, leading through established cycle paths and forest edges.
Most popular routes around Balcombe Forest
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
