The best gravel rides around Hadlow Down
4.8
(7)
48
riders
6
rides
Gravel biking around Hadlow Down offers routes through the rolling landscape of East Sussex, characterized by woodlands, open heathland, and sections of the Forest Way. The area provides varied terrain, from former railway lines to more challenging ascents. Riders can expect a mix of surfaces suitable for gravel bikes, including compacted earth, gravel paths, and quiet country lanes.
Best gravel bike trails around Hadlow Down
- The most popular gravel bike trail is View of Ashdown Forest β Black Hill loopβ¦
Last updated: July 2, 2026
10
riders
39.2km
02:43
570m
570m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
25
riders
48.2km
02:42
420m
420m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
6
riders
46.4km
02:50
580m
580m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
17.1km
01:15
270m
270m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lovely route to ride
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If only all old railways could be a good as this one. Whitstable to Folkestone on the Canterbury South is on my hitlist!!
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Decent shop with hot food over the counter, plus some tea rooms.
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Whichever way you've come up to get here you'll have done some climbing, so make sure to enjoy the epic views out over the High Weald and Ashdown Forest. Especially if you came up Kidd's Hill (the Wall), one of the top 100 UK climbs. Usually quiet, with a great road surface, it's a cycling paradise.
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Glynde village boasts a unique and storied past. For nearly five centuries, the majority of this village has been under the ownership of a single family. Located to the east of Lewes and entirely enveloped by the South Downs National Park, Glynde provides you with breathtaking vistas of the Weald and the Downs, firmly establishing itself as one of the most picturesque villages in the county. It has a train station and village shop but no pub!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any beginner-friendly gravel bike routes around Hadlow Down?
While many routes are rated difficult, there are moderate options suitable for those looking for a less challenging ride. For instance, the Abandoned Blue Bentley β The Huntsman, Eridge loop from Crowborough is a moderate 10.6-mile (17.1 km) path that explores the local countryside.
What are the typical lengths of gravel bike trails in the Hadlow Down area?
Gravel bike trails in the Hadlow Down area vary in length, generally ranging from around 10 miles (17 km) to over 30 miles (48 km). For example, the Abandoned Blue Bentley β The Huntsman, Eridge loop from Crowborough is 10.6 miles (17.1 km), while the Forest Way Cycle Path β Forest Way loop from Crowborough extends to 30.1 miles (48.4 km).
Are there challenging gravel routes for experienced riders near Hadlow Down?
Yes, Hadlow Down offers several challenging routes. The View of Ashdown Forest β Black Hill loop from Eridge is a difficult 24.4-mile (39.2 km) trail with significant elevation gain, offering expansive views across Ashdown Forest. Another demanding option is the Forest Way Cycle Path β Forest Way loop from Nutley, which is 28.7 miles (46.2 km) and also rated difficult.
Can I find gravel bike routes with pub stops in the Hadlow Down region?
Yes, some routes incorporate convenient pub stops. The Abandoned Blue Bentley β The Huntsman, Eridge loop from Crowborough is specifically noted for including a pub stop, allowing riders to refuel and relax during their ride.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Hadlow Down?
The terrain around Hadlow Down is varied, featuring rolling landscapes, ancient woodlands, open heathland, and sections of former railway lines like the Forest Way. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, including compacted earth, gravel paths, and quiet country lanes, suitable for gravel bikes.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available?
Yes, all the featured gravel bike routes in the Hadlow Down area are designed as loops. This includes popular options like the View of Ashdown Forest β Black Hill loop from Eridge and the Forest Way Cycle Path β Forest Way loop from Crowborough, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Hadlow Down?
The gravel biking routes around Hadlow Down are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.88 stars from over 7 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the scenic views, and the mix of challenging and moderate options available.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the gravel routes?
Yes, the area offers several points of interest. You might encounter historical sites like Pooh Bridge or Nutley Windmill. Some routes also pass by beautiful lakes such as Eridge Park Lake or Piltdown Pond, offering scenic spots to pause.
How many gravel bike routes are available in the Hadlow Down area?
There are 8 gravel bike routes detailed for the Hadlow Down area, offering a range of distances and difficulties to explore the local landscape.
Are there any routes that follow former railway lines?
Yes, the Forest Way Cycle Path β Forest Way loop from Crowborough is a prominent example, utilizing sections of the former railway line. These paths often provide relatively flat and well-maintained surfaces, ideal for gravel biking.
What is the best way to experience the views of Ashdown Forest by gravel bike?
For expansive views across Ashdown Forest, consider the View of Ashdown Forest β Black Hill loop from Eridge. This difficult 24.4-mile (39.2 km) route is specifically designed to showcase these scenic vistas.
Are there any routes that start from Crowborough?
Yes, Crowborough serves as a starting point for several gravel bike routes. Both the Forest Way Cycle Path β Forest Way loop from Crowborough and the Abandoned Blue Bentley β The Huntsman, Eridge loop from Crowborough begin in Crowborough, offering convenient access to the trails.
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