The best traffic-free bike rides around Billingshurst

There are 11 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Billingshurst. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy rides to more challenging adventures, all designed to keep you away from busy roads.

Yes, Billingshurst offers 3 easy no-traffic touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Okehurst Road – The Blue Ship loop from Billingshurst, which covers approximately 19.8 km with minimal elevation gain, making it very accessible.

Many routes pass by or near notable attractions. You could cycle past the historic Shipley Windmill, a landmark once owned by author Hilaire Belloc. The Milk Churn Coffee Shop is also a popular stop for cyclists, offering refreshments. For history enthusiasts, the former West Grinstead Station provides a glimpse into the region's railway past.

Yes, several routes offer longer distances and are circular. The Downs Link and Wey-Arun Canal Loop is a moderate 44.4 km circular route that combines the peaceful towpaths of the Wey and Arun Canal with sections of the Downs Link. Another great option is the Loxwood Lock – Wey and Arun Canal loop from Billingshurst, covering 36.1 km.

Absolutely. The region is cyclist-friendly, with several spots for refreshments. The Milk Churn Coffee Shop is a well-known stop, and establishments like 'Billy's On The Road' are specifically geared towards cyclists. Many routes also pass through charming villages where you can find local pubs.

Spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling in Billingshurst. The weather is milder, and the natural landscapes of the South Downs National Park and High Weald National Landscape are at their most vibrant. Winter cycling is possible, but some paths might be muddy, and daylight hours are shorter.

Many of the easier and moderate no-traffic routes are suitable for families. The flat, traffic-free paths along the Wey and Arun Canal, for instance, provide a safe and scenic environment for children. Routes like the Okehurst Road – The Blue Ship loop are relatively short and have minimal elevation, making them good choices for family outings.

Billingshurst village itself offers various parking options, including public car parks. Many routes start directly from the village, providing convenient access. For routes that begin slightly outside, local village car parks or designated trail parking areas are often available, especially near popular sections of the Downs Link or Wey and Arun Canal.

The terrain varies, offering a diverse cycling experience. You'll find flat, well-maintained towpaths along the Wey and Arun Canal, quiet country lanes through the High Weald National Landscape, and some gently rolling hills as you approach the South Downs National Park. The routes are primarily designed to avoid heavy traffic, focusing on scenic and peaceful paths.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's blend of serene, traffic-free paths, the picturesque landscapes of the High Weald and proximity to the South Downs, and the charming villages with cyclist-friendly amenities. The variety of routes catering to different skill levels is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, several routes incorporate water features. The Wey and Arun Canal is a prominent feature, offering peaceful cycling alongside its waters. Additionally, some routes may pass near beautiful spots like Burton Mill Pond and Mill or Knepp Estate Lake, providing scenic views and tranquil resting points.