Cycling

Enjoy the wildlife whilst cycling or walking along this traffic free route, of approximately 11 miles.  It is a very popular route for families.  The trail is along a disused railway and goes through woodland, open grassland, farmland and pasture.   There are even sculptures to admire along the way. Wooden seating and picnic tables are dotted along the route for that much needed rest and/or refreshment.

The Downs Link is a 37 mile (59km) route between the South and North Downs that is suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding.  It follows two disused railway lines and is therefore mostly level – ideal for children!

The Link starts at Shoreham-by-Sea and can be joined at various points along the way.  A great way to get started is to join from the A283 (you can park in various lay bys) where it runs very close to the Downs Link just north of the A27.  From there it is a relatively short bike ride heading north to reach Bramber Castle, which is a great place for picnics and outdoor games (and is free!)

For more information on the Downs Link go to:

westsussex.gov.uk/ccm/content/roads-and-transport/walking-and-cycling/cycle-routes-and-maps/downs-link—north-and-south-downs-way.en;jsessionid=aUeZxjGiPQBc

Trail is approximately one and a half miles long and is fairly flat so is ideal for families with small children.  The tarmac route follows the old railway line that used to take fun seekers up to the Dyke in Victorian times.  It takes an hour if walked at a leisurely pace. There are views across downland, farmland and the sea.  (The route can be continued to Devil's Dyke, about another 1.25 miles, but is mainly rough gravel and therefore not suitable for young children on bikes).  The first part of the trail, before you cross the bridge (which takes you over the A27) is rather messy with litter and dog mess.  But once past that, it is a pleasant walk or cycle.

The start of the trail is just before the Downsman pub in Hangleton Way in Hove, BN3,  just off the A27.

Further information:   South Downs Joint Committee 01273 625242

The cycle track encircles a cricket pitch at the top end of Preston Park in Brighton.  This is an ideal place to teach kids how to ride a bike, and once they can ride proficiently they will enjoy racing around the track.  It is a popular place for families as it is suitable for children of all ages.  The track is occasionally closed for cricket matches and is closed regularly on Saturday mornings from 10 to 12 noon for use by the Preston Park Youth Cycling Club.

The nearest park entrance to the cycle track is off Preston Drove next to Preston Park Avenue.

This route is about 10 miles long and not entirely traffic free.  However, the first section from Rottingdean to Hove, which takes you along Brighton and Hove promenades is mainly traffic free.  The part which you may have to get off and walk is from the Marina to the Palace Pier.    Mostly flat with a tarmac or concrete surface, this can be quite a leisurely ride and a great way to take in the views of the sea and surrounding area.

Bike hire is available from M's cycle hire: 07852 986 165

Go Cycle Bike Hire at Brighton Marina: 01273 697104

Sunrise Cycle Hire at West Pier: 01273 748881

Contact Sustrans for further information: 0845 113 0065

A wonderful vast area of Sussex countryside with spectacular views, Seven Sisters Country Park is situated just east of Seaford, off the A259.  It is an ideal place for a family cycle ride, for children of all ages.

There is an easy access trail, suitable for bikes and buggies, which takes you to the beach.  Once at the beach you can see wading birds and, if the tide is out, other wildlife in the rockpools.  It is about 4km to the beach and back.

The park has some strict rules which you must adhere to:  only fish at the beach, barbecues and fires are banned, please take your rubbish home, do not pick the flowers and keep dogs away from the cattle and sheep.

There is a car park for which a ticket must be purchased.