The best traffic-free bike rides around Worthing

There are over 60 touring cycling routes around Worthing that focus on minimizing traffic, with 15 of these specifically rated as easy. These routes offer a range of experiences, from coastal paths to ascents into the South Downs National Park.

Yes, Worthing offers several easy, traffic-free routes perfect for beginners and families. A great option is the Drinking Water Tap and Toilets – Worthing Pier loop from Goring-by-Sea, which is an easy 7.4 km ride with minimal elevation gain. The Worthing Promenade also provides flat and safe coastal rides with sea views.

You can expect a diverse range of landscapes. Many routes follow the coastline, offering sea views and coastal breezes. Inland, routes often lead into the South Downs National Park, featuring stunning chalk grasslands, ancient woodlands, and panoramic views of the English Channel and countryside.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Downs Link at Botolphs – Downs Link along the River Adur loop from West Worthing offers a moderate 30 km ride. Another option is the Chanctonbury Ring – Cissbury Ring loop from Worthing, a moderate 18 km route with some elevation.

Many routes offer access to notable landmarks and viewpoints. You can cycle towards the historic Cissbury Ring Hill Fort for elevated views, or enjoy the coastal scenery along Worthing Beach and the Goring Greensward Seafront Promenade. The Wide Water Nature Reserve is another natural highlight along the coast.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 149 ratings. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of traffic-free coastal paths, the challenging yet rewarding ascents into the South Downs, and the diverse scenery that caters to various cycling preferences.

Worthing is well-connected. For routes starting in or near the town, there are various parking facilities available. Many routes are also accessible via public transport, with train stations in Worthing and nearby towns like Shoreham-by-Sea offering connections that can facilitate reaching starting points. For more detailed information on local cycling infrastructure and transport, you can visit the Adur & Worthing Council website.

Yes, if you don't have your own bicycle, 'Donkey Bikes' are available for hire from various locations around Worthing, making it convenient to access the local cycle routes and explore the area.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for cycling, with warmer weather and longer daylight hours. However, the coastal routes can be enjoyed year-round, though prevailing westerly winds can influence the ease of a journey. The South Downs routes are also beautiful in autumn with changing foliage.

Yes, for more experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes that ascend into the South Downs National Park provide significant elevation. The Washington South Downs Climb – Cissbury Ring loop from Durrington-on-Sea, for instance, is a moderate 27 km route with nearly 400 meters of elevation gain, offering rewarding views.

Worthing and its surrounding towns offer numerous cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Coastal routes often pass through populated areas with plenty of amenities. Routes venturing into the South Downs may have fewer options directly on the trail, but villages and towns at the base of the hills typically provide places to refuel and rest.