Liss Forest, Iping Common and Harting Down loop — South Downs National Park

Indulge in some of the finest countryside in West Sussex with this scenic circuit of heathland, woodland, pine forests, a former railway trail and open ridges.

Starting at Liss station, the route traces the path of a disused military railway track. You'll soon find yourself amidst the beauty of Iping Common – an enchanting expanse of open heathland with sandy trails, hues of purple heather, and splashes of yellow gorse.

Prepare for a gruelling ascent up the South Downs escarpment at Linch Hill. You’ll then join the South Downs Way and enjoy sweeping panoramic views at Harting Down before descending sharply into South Harting village. Your adventure continues with sandy paths and pine forest tracks leading you on a homeward path back to the starting point in Liss.

As well as the South Downs Way, the route follows parts of the Sussex Border Path, a long-distance hiking route that traces the Sussex border. It also combines a section of the Shipwrights Way, a Hampshire-based cycling trail leading to Portsmouth’s coast.

The Tour is equally split between on and off-road terrain, with quiet country lanes, sandy tracks, grassy bridleways and stoney gravel or earth paths. A gravel or mountain bike is ideal, but there are a couple of very steep sections where you may have to dismount and walk.

You'll be spoilt for choice with refueling options along the route. To begin, the Flying Bull Inn in Rake lies close to the start. In the latter half of the journey, the White Hart pub in South Harting awaits. Additionally, South Harting boasts a well-stocked village shop.

Further on, consider visiting Sky Park Farm, a deer farm located just outside Petersfield. Here, you'll find a farm shop, cafe, and restaurant, offering an opportunity to savour some locally-sourced produce. Around the corner is Durleighmarsh Farm, a tea barn and farm shop. Lastly, near the finishing point, The Jolly Drover pub, just outside Liss, offers a cosy retreat to unwind and celebrate the near completion of your adventure. If you prefer a leisurely picnic, you can purchase supplies before your ride in a small supermarket close to Liss station.

Liss station is served by regular trains from Portsmouth Harbour, Guildford and London Waterloo. If travelling by car, the northern end of Station Road and the adjacent side streets offer a convenient option with some free on-street parking.