Devil’s Dyke

Devil's Dyke mountain bike trails sit within the South Downs National Park, around five miles north of Brighton. The Dyke is the longest, deepest and widest dry valley in the UK, running for nearly a mile through chalk downland managed by the National Trust. Expect great views across the Weald and coast, varied bridleway riding, and a classic South Downs XC feel. It is a popular site with walkers and paragliders, so be aware and considerate of other users on the trails.

The Trails

• Riding here is bridleway-based rather than trail-centre, covering natural chalk singletrack with technical sections, fast ridge descents and gentler tops-of-the-downs options suitable for most abilities.
• The South Downs Way National Trail runs through the site, offering off-road riding with rough ground, ascent and descent.
• Family riders and less experienced mountain bikers can access the area via the disused railway line cycle path from Hangleton near Hove, approximately four miles of paved, gently sloping trail forming part of NCN Route 20 (Brighton to Crawley).
• More adventurous riders can drop off the ridge and link through to villages, including Poynings and Fulking in the Weald below.
• Chalk and clay surface. Can be muddy after wet weather.

Rules and Access

• Cycling is permitted on bridleways, restricted byways and byways only. The site has a mixed network of rights of way and footpaths are not legal for cycling.
• The valley and surrounding downland form part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Stay on legal routes and do not ride across the open chalk grassland.
• The area sits within an Iron Age hillfort. Avoid riding over or around earthwork features adjacent to the trail.
• Give way to walkers and horse riders on all shared paths. Signal your approach with a call or bell and pass slowly and considerately. Devil's Dyke is a busy walking destination, particularly at weekends.
• Ride in control at all times. The chalk and clay surface is prone to erosion; avoid skidding on descents.

Getting There

• By car: Devil's Dyke car park is two miles north of the A27 Brighton ring road, just off the A281. No postcode for the car park. Sat Nav: Easting 525844, Northing 110977.
• Parking: Pay and display (also via JustPark app). National Trust members and Blue Badge holders park free. Free limited parking also available at Summer Down Road nearby.
• By bus: The number 77 Breeze bus runs from the centre of Brighton (passing the pier and train station) to Devil's Dyke. Runs daily in summer, weekends and Bank Holidays in spring and autumn, and Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays in winter.
• By train: Brighton station is six miles away. Train ticket holders qualify for a 2-for-1 offer or one-third discount on the 77 bus.
• At the top: The Devil's Dyke pub (Vintage Inns, not National Trust) is directly at the car park and is dog-friendly.

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