Centurian Way, Goodwood and West Dean Woods loop — South Downs National Park

From the south coast, prepare for an excursion that reveals ancient tracks, sweeping sea views, dense forests, a former railway path and a famous horse racecourse.

Starting from Bosham station, your adventure begins along the historic Centurion Way, a disused railway path now serving as a popular cycling route between Chichester and West Dean. You'll soon join the historic Chalk Pit Lane, an old track once serving as the main link between the coast and the surrounding region. Ascending towards the Trundle, an ancient hill fort, you'll trace a grassy bridleway through time.

As you progress, the grounds of Goodwood, renowned for its iconic racecourse, unfold before you. A climb through a dense woodland area leads you to the South Downs Way, perched on the ridge of the South Downs. The reward for your efforts is a magnificent view of the boundless sea and countryside surrounding the city of Chichester.

You'll enter the beautiful West Dean Woods, a dense pine forest which leads down into the pretty village of West Dean. The last leg of your journey climbs the perimeter of Kingley Vale, a national nature reserve with a small field museum.

The Tour concludes with a long, sweeping descent across the woodland at Funtington Down, before passing through the quaint village of West Ashling, just around the corner from your endpoint at Bosham station.

Around 60% of the route is off-road, with the remaining portion meanders along peaceful country lanes. While the off-road sections are generally well surfaced, it's advisable to opt for a mountain or gravel bike due to occasional bumpy tracks. Anticipate a fair amount of climbing and allocate an entire day for this trip, given its length and the elevation challenges.

There are some lovely cafes and pubs en route. The first is the Fox Goes Free in Charlton, a third of the way into the route. Next is Cadence cafe, your mid-way point in Cocking on the South Downs Way. West Dean has a pub and village shop just off the route, whilst Funtington is home to the Fox and Hounds, just a few miles from the finishing point.

Bosham station is served by regular trains from Littlehampton and Portsmouth and Southsea station. Change at Ford for services to London and Brighton. The station has a free car park.