Ditchling Beacon, The Chattri and Devil's Dyke loop — South Downs National Park

Embark on a thrilling off-road adventure that boasts spectacular views as well as some breathtaking cycling along ridges and up chalky escarpments.

From Hassocks station, the route passes through the quaint village of Ditchling before a sharp climb up Westmeston Bostal to the South Downs Way. From the top are some incredible views which extend as far as the north downs ridge. You'll enjoy a short stretch of the South Downs Way across Ditchling Beacon then face a long sweeping descent which passes the Chattri, a monument dedicated to Indian soldiers of the First World War.

The next part of the route explores the southern foot of the South Downs bridleways that climb up and down a number of chalk slopes. Eventually, you'll ascend back up onto the South Downs Way, where you're treated to a scenic ridge-top section with fabulous views in all directions.

Prepare for an unforgettable highlight as the route leads you along a thrilling, narrow ridge, tracing the edge of Devil's Dyke, the deepest dry valley in the UK.

You'll make your way back to the starting point at Hassocks train station by following a vineyard bridleway at the foot of Wolstonbury Hill.

As well as the South Downs Way, the route traces parts of the Mid-Sussex link, a long-distance hiking route which keeps close to the border of East and West Sussex.

At 60%, most of the route is off-road with grassy tracks, chalky bridleways and compact earth. I'd recommend using a mountain or gravel bike with wide tyres, as some sections are a little bumpy. As a relatively long route with considerable elevation gain and some very steep sections, this Tour is aimed at the more experienced off-road cyclist.

The route starts at Hassocks station, moments away from a supermarket and a cycling cafe. You'll pass The Bull pub and Green Welly cafe in Ditchling village, close to the beginning. The best place to stop is the Devil's Dyke pub just off the route on the South Downs Way. From here you'll be treated to spectacular patchwork views across the Sussex and Surrey countryside.

Hassocks station is served by trains from Brighton, Clapham Junction, several London terminals and Cambridge. There’s free parking in Stanford Avenue, a residential street near the station.