The best gravel rides around Broadbridge Heath

There are over 50 gravel bike trails available around Broadbridge Heath, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored more than 55 routes in the area.

The terrain around Broadbridge Heath is diverse, featuring unpaved surfaces, bridleways, and country lanes. You'll encounter sections of the traffic-free Downs Link, which follows a disused railway line, as well as varied woodlands in St Leonard's Forest and rewilded areas like the Knepp Estate. Expect a mix of largely flat sections, some steep climbs, and fun descents, with some parts potentially muddy, especially after rain.

Yes, there are several easy gravel bike routes perfect for beginners. The area offers 9 easy routes, including shorter loops that allow you to experience the local landscapes without extensive effort. A good option is the Southwater Country Park – Downs Link Trail loop from Horsham, which is 12.5 miles (20.1 km) and leads through woodlands and alongside the Downs Link.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 8 difficult routes available. These often involve longer distances and more significant elevation changes. One such route is the demanding Parkstreet Lane Bridge – Rudgwick Double Bridge loop from Warnham, which covers 44.6 miles (71.7 km) and explores a wider network of bridleways and country lanes.

Many of the gravel bike routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the popular West Grinstead Station – Downs Link along the River Adur loop from Horsham is a 40.2-mile (64.7 km) circular trail that follows sections of the historic Downs Link.

You can discover a variety of natural features and landmarks. The Downs Link offers views of the River Adur floodplain and the South Downs. St Leonard's Forest features attractive pine woodlands and streams with small waterfalls. The Knepp Estate provides opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like Tamworth Pigs and storks. You might also pass by highlights such as West Grinstead Station, Shipley Windmill, and Knepp Wildland Tree Platform.

Yes, the largely traffic-free nature of the Downs Link makes sections of it suitable for families, especially the flatter parts. Shorter, easy loops like the Southwater Country Park – Downs Link Trail loop from Horsham are also good choices for family outings.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Broadbridge Heath, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though some trails might be dustier. Winter rides are possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy sections, especially in woodlands and along the Downs Link, which can require good fitness.

Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. The Milk Churn Coffee Shop is a notable stop. Many towns and villages along the Downs Link and other routes, such as Horsham and Southwater, offer pubs and cafes where you can refuel.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 25 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the extensive network of bridleways, and the scenic beauty of the Downs Link and local woodlands. The variety of routes, from easy loops to challenging long-distance rides, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, access points to the Downs Link are available at various towns along the route, including Christ's Hospital and Southwater, which are relatively close to Broadbridge Heath. These towns often have train stations or bus services that can facilitate reaching the trails.

For detailed maps and information on local cycling routes and bridleways, including those around Broadbridge Heath and St Leonard's Forest, you can consult resources provided by the local council. For example, the Horsham District Council offers downloadable PDFs like the 'Horsham, Broadbridge Heath & Southwater' and 'Horsham & St Leonard's Forest' cycling maps, which can be found on their website.