4.4
(386)
4,438
riders
454
rides
Best touring bike trails near Ardingly traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, open countryside, and the prominent Ardingly Reservoir. The area offers a mix of quiet country lanes and paths through parkland, providing varied terrain for cycling. Elevation changes are generally moderate, with some routes featuring more significant climbs. This region in Mid Sussex is known for its rural charm and accessible natural features.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
4.0
(1)
11
riders
48.9km
03:51
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
63.1km
03:58
690m
690m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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1.0
(1)
8
riders
15.5km
01:08
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The perimeter path around the reservoir is very muddy in places currently due to the amount of rain. Welly boots needed in some places.
0
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This is a charming church featuring a square tower which is characteristic of Sussex's medieval architecture. In front of the church is a bench where you can stop and pause before continuing your journey.
1
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very muddy if there's been rain recently, had to keep pushing my bike as it got stuck
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0
The tranquil Ardingly reservoir can be found 3 miles north of Haywards Heath. It is home to a number of bird species which can be identified with panels situated within bird hides around the reservoir. Walk the Kingfisher Nature Trail around the eastern shores and for the more adventurous, the Ardingly Activity Centre provides sailing, canoeing and windsurfing opportunities. Unfortunately most if not all access to the waterside is restricted to anglers.
0
0
Beautiful church which is surrounded by quiet lanes.
0
0
There are over 490 touring cycling routes available around Ardingly, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
The terrain around Ardingly is characterized by rolling hills, open countryside, and paths alongside the prominent Ardingly Reservoir. You'll find a mix of quiet country lanes and routes through parkland. Elevation changes are generally moderate, though some routes feature more significant climbs.
Yes, Ardingly offers a good selection of routes for beginners. There are over 120 easy touring cycling routes, providing gentle rides through the scenic landscape.
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Ardingly has over 140 difficult touring cycling routes. One such route is the Streat Church – East Chiltington Church loop from Ardingly, which covers over 63 km with significant elevation gain.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 360 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic reservoir views, and the charm of the country lanes and parkland paths.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Ardingly are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Ardingly Village – St Peter’s Church loop from Mid Sussex, which explores the local village and surrounding rural areas.
Along the routes, you can enjoy views of the Ardingly Reservoir. Other notable attractions in the wider area include Forest Way Country Park and the historic Fletching Village and St. Andrew & St. Mary the Virgin Church.
Yes, Ardingly offers several family-friendly routes, particularly those categorized as easy. These routes often utilize quieter country lanes and paths through parkland, providing a safer and more enjoyable experience for families. Look for routes with lower distances and minimal elevation gain.
Parking is generally available at key access points around the Ardingly Reservoir and in nearby villages. Specific parking information is often detailed on individual route pages on komoot, or you can check local council websites for public car parks.
Ardingly is accessible by public transport, though options may vary. Haywards Heath train station is nearby and offers connections. From there, local bus services can take you closer to various starting points for routes. It's advisable to check bus schedules and bike carriage policies in advance.
Yes, many routes pass through or near villages where you can find cafes and traditional pubs. For example, the route The Talbot Pub, Cuckfield – Stone Bench in Haywards Heath loop from Balcombe starts near a pub, offering a convenient stop for refreshments.
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Ardingly, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though cooler temperatures and increased chance of rain should be considered.


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