Great mountain biking on the Sussex South Downs

Mountain biking on the Sussex South Downs is a great activity for all the family. Depending on the ages and stamina of your children, it is possible to cycle up to Ditchling Beacon from either Brighton in the south or Ditchling, which is just at the foot of the Downs.

Alternatively, you can negotiate the train with your bikes, getting off at Hassocks, on the London to Brighton mainline route; or for a less green option, load your bikes on the back of your car and head for the car park at Ditchling Beacon, just north of Brighton. (Be prepared to pay a nominal parking fee to the National Trust Attendant.)

There, the views stretch for miles around.

From Ditchling Beacon, cycle a couple of miles east along the South Downs Way to Blackcap, just outside Lewes; if you want a more challenging run, continue towards Eastbourne. Or, go west to Devil's Dyke (about 4/5 miles) and further, to Chanctonbury Ring.

If you'd like to cycle the whole of the South Downs Way, you'll need to plan your trip carefully and use a good route map - try our detailed sections of the Harvey's map of the South Downs Way

Alternatively, just enjoy the mile and a half run along to the Jack and Jill windmills - a lovely easy route for families with younger kids. Jack Mill is privately owned, but Jill Mill has been fully restored by a team of dedicated volunteers and is now in full working order. You can even purchase a bag of freshly ground organic Sussex flour on Visitor Open Days! It's a fascinating place to explore and is usually open between
2-5pm most Sundays from May through to September.

Need a new bike or biking kit? Check here first for reasonably priced mountain biking gear.

Check out these safety suggestions:

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