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Sussex Self-Guided Bike Tour

Discover a beautiful rural corner of southeast England

Riding the hallowed hills of Sussex is truly like no other experience on Earth, with acre upon acre of rolling hills, vibrant green countryside, and an exquisitely picturesque coastline that has served as the gateway of an empire that has stood the test of time. On this self-guided bike tour, from one handpicked hotel just outside of the hustle and bustle of London, you'll meander through peaceful lanes discovering the historic stone cottages, cobbled streets, and cozy pubs of Sussex. You'll meander through the sun-soaked vineyards in the South Downs, which have the same chalky subsoil as the Champagne region in France, and savor its homegrown, award-winning sparkling wine. There's no landscape like the English hills. And there's no getaway quite like this one, where you are free to explore as you wish! Book your trip with confidence » Experience Trek Travel's One Collection where you stay in one luxurious hotel during your trip

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Sussex Self-Guided Bike Tour
From:
$2599 Per Person
Duration:
5 Days & 4 Nights
Rider Level: ?
2 - Recreational Non-riders Welcome
Trip Style: ?
Self-Guided
Hotel Level: ?
Luxury
From $2599 per person View All Details
Trip Wows
Discover the sun-soaked vineyards in the South Downs and sample England's award-winning sparkling wines
Enjoy a traditional treat of "fish and chips" on the pebble beach of the vibrant seaside resort town of Brighton
Pamper yourself at the hotel's beautiful spa set in an Elizabethan Manor House
Explore the charming village of Lewes, home to one of the oldest breweries in the UK
Enjoy unrivalled cycling down beautiful lanes, through quaint villages, and surrounded by a landscape rich in history
Sussex Self-Guided Bike Tour
A very well-conceived trip with fun routes, excellent food, and interesting side tours. We felt Trek was fully behind us whilst enjoying the freedom of self-guidance. And the Trek bikes inspired confidence!
-John, Trek Travel Guest

Dates & Prices

The Earlier You Book, The Greater The Rewards

We reward our guests with lower pricing and more dates to choose from the earlier you book. Rest assured, once you book, your price and date are guaranteed.
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Waitlist
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Single Occupancy from: +$999
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Jun 17 – Jun 21 
$2599 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Jul 1 – Jul 5 
$2599 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Jul 8 – Jul 12 
$2599 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Jul 15 – Jul 19 
$2599 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Don't see your ideal travel date? 
Call us at (866) 464-8735 for custom date availability
Looking for a one of a kind, once in a lifetime experience?
Look no further. Choose your trip date, get your group together and we will do the rest. Private trip pricing is as follows:

  • 10+ Guests Price as advertised*
  • 8-9 Guests +$750 per person to trip price*
  • 6-7 Guests +$1,500 per person to trip price*
  • 4-5 Guests +$2,000 per person to trip price*
  • 2-3 Guests +$3,000 per person to trip price*
  • 1 Guest        Call us for pricing*


Traveling with a small group? Consider semi-private trips.
For groups of up to six people, semi-private trips offer unique flexibility within a larger Trek Travel guided trip. Learn more »

*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Private pricing is not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
Looking for a date that you don’t see?
Look no further. Simply tell us your preferred travel dates and we’ll work together to deliver the same great trip on your custom schedule.
*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom dates are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
Want to customize this trip?
We've got you covered. We’ll work with you to build your perfect vacation from scratch, including your choice of riding, accommodations and dining options. With the help of our trip designers and travel experts, the world is available like never before.
*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom trips are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.

Meet your Trek Travel host at 11:00 AM in the hotel lobby in picturesque Cuckfield, a charming village that time forgot, tucked away in the beautiful Sussex countryside. After familiarizing you with your upcoming itinerary, your host will spend some time discussing safety, the rules of the road, and fitting you to your Trek bike, ensuring the best fit and comfort for the week. Afterward, you are free to spend the day as you like and head straight to the fabulous hotel spa or take your bike out for a short spin. The route we have designed for you will loop through town and onto country lanes to Nymans gardens, a local National Trust property from the 1800s. It is a great way to ease into riding, finding your own pace while getting acquainted with your Trek bike. This evening, make use of our personalized recommendations as you decide which local restaurant to try first.

Today's Ride:

Cuckfield to Nymans Gardens Loop
Approximately 15 miles | 24 km and 876 feet | 267 m of climbing

Hotel:

Hotel Ockenden Manor

Following a bountiful breakfast, head out through quiet residential streets before branching out onto lovely country lanes toward the picturesque village of Lindfield. The route takes you past Sheffield Park, not only home to a famed country house and gardens, but also the Bluebell Steam Railway. You'll follow a quiet route south to the town of Lewes - once the home of Thomas Paine (try the Tom Paine Ale from the local brewery!). Lewes sits in the Ouse Valley with the chalk hills of the South Downs surrounding it and providing some great scenery. It’s home to a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and antique shops, but the jewel in the crown is its Norman castle which played a role in the formation of British democracy and is well worth a visit. The ride back to the hotel passes along some scenic roads before you pick up your tire tracks at Lindfield and sneak through the hidden roads of Haywards Heath back to your hotel. Tonight, treat yourself to another meal of your choice in town. The recommendations are at your fingertips.

Today's Ride:

Cuckfield to Lewes Loop
Approximately 40 miles | 65 km and 2,310 feet | 704 m of climbing

Short Option:

Cuckfield to Lewes Return
Approximately 32 miles | 52 km and 1,755 feet | 535 m of climbing

Avid Option:

Cuckfield to Glynde to Lewes Loop
Approximately 44 miles | 72 km and 2,564 feet | 782 m of climbing

Hotel:

Hotel Ockenden Manor

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Today’s loop ride takes you south to the foot of the South Downs, which is the heartland of English winemaking. The region’s finer climate, proximity to the sea, and geology of the area make this the perfect setting for cultivating delicious and award-winning wines, and today you’ll have the chance to visit some of the area's most prestigious vineyards. After a stretch on the wonderfully named Slugwash Lane, you’ll head towards Ditchling Common, the home of Ridgeview wine estate - a wine producer that has not only won global awards for its Sussex Sparkling but has been served by the Queen to guests including President Obama over recent years. After a visit, you’ll continue on to the village of Ditchling, where The Bull provides a very tempting pub option for a mid-ride refuel. The route picks up Underhill Lane here, following the curvature of the South Downs, before turning north towards Bolney and another fabulous winery. This makes for a great final stop as there are just a few more miles to the hotel from here. In the afternoon take some time to relax before enjoying dinner at your leisure at the restaurant that best suits your palate in town.

Today's Ride:

Cuckfield to Ditchling to Westmeston Loop
Approximately 31 miles | 49 km and 1,379 feet | 420 m of climbing

Short Option:

Cuckfield to Ditchling Loop
Approximately 27 miles | 44 km and 1,210 feet | 369 m of climbing

Avid Option:

Cuckfield to Ditchling Loop (with Jack and Jill Windmills Climb)
Approximately 34 miles | 55 km and 2,128 feet | 649 m of climbing

Hotel:

Hotel Ockenden Manor

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Get ready for a fantastic day of cycling that takes you on the Downs Link Trail, a traffic-free path that follows an abandoned railway line that runs all the way to the coast. Along the way, you’ll pass the ruins of Bramber Castle before following the river Adur to the coast at Shoreham. From here you'll follow the promenade into the heart of the bustling city of Brighton & Hove, one of the south coast's coolest destinations. Here you have the choice of going traditional with fish and chips on the beach or going contemporary with a host of trendy eateries and boutiques dotted along the quaint North Laines streets. Your route finishes at the train station, where you can hop on for a 15-minute ride back to Haywards Heath before cycling the remaining couple of miles back to the hotel. Tonight, take a relaxed stroll in town and find a restaurant of your choice. Raise a glass and toast to an incredible self-guided bike tour in Sussex, riding off the beaten track and discovering a land of beauty, culture, and excitement.

Today's Ride:

Cuckfield to Brighton (with train back)
Approximately 30 miles | 47 km and 987 feet | 301 m of climbing

Short Option:

Cuckfield to Shoreham (with train back)
Approximately 22 miles | 35 km and 713 feet | 217 m of climbing

Avid Option:

Cuckfield to Brighton Loop
Approximately 48 miles | 77 km and 2,186 feet | 666 m of climbing

Hotel:

Hotel Ockenden Manor

Included Meals:

Breakfast

On this final day of your self-guided bike tour in Sussex, take the morning to sleep in and relax, savoring a long breakfast, or choose to have a final spin before leaving Cuckfield. You’ll have enough time to return back to the hotel, shower, and change before you depart. Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at the hotel to take your bike and say farewell, concluding your self-guided journey.

Today's Ride:

Cuckfield to Ardingly Loop
Approximately 12 miles | 20 km and 1,115 feet | 340 m of climbing

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Hotels

hotel image

Ockenden Manor Hotel & Spa

Cuckfield, England

Luxury Accommodation | A fine and tranquil Elizabethan Manor House with lavishly decorated rooms, an outstanding spa, a delightful swimming pool, and an award-winning restaurant set on eight acres of beautiful grounds overlooking Cuckfield Park. With its history and character, this elegant property is a wonderful place to both unwind and indulge while enjoying stunning views all around.

What's Included

For us, the details matter most

Every moment of a Trek Travel self-guided bike trip has more than you could have ever dreamed. More experiences. More scenery. More choice. It's the little additions to every Trek Travel cycling vacation that make it truly special. And that's how we help you create more memories.

bike

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 2022

It isn’t the cycling vacation of a lifetime unless you have the industry’s best bike to match. The Checkpoint ALR 5 is a high-quality build that is light and fast, and is incredibly comfortable for many miles of exploring beautiful terrain. What sets this model apart is the performance components, progressive geometry, and a wealth of features that give you a smooth ride even when the pavement is a bit more rugged. It is the ideal choice for your kind of adventure. Learn More

bike

Trek Electric Assist Verve+ 1

With its Low-Step frame design, hopping on and off the Trek Verve+ is super easy. The suspension seat post will take the edge off any bumps in the road and the Bosch system will keep you smiling from ear to ear. Learn More

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Four nights of accommodation at one handpicked hotel
  • Daily breakfast
  • Daily lunch and dinner recommendations
  • Ride a Trek Checkpoint AL 5 or a Trek Electric-Assist Verve+ 1 Lowstep
  • Up to three daily route options on riding days
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Each bike is equipped with a Garmin GPS computer, a flat pack containing one tube, two tire levers, CO2 cartridge with inflator, and a patch kit (the flat pack is only large enough for these items so if additional gear is needed, please plan to bring your own bar bag or small backpack for daily rides)
  • A mini frame pump, front and rear lights
  • Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager saddle (we suggest you bring your own for the most comfortable fit)
  • Shimano clipless pedals or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • A bike lock, all necessary chargers and a floor pump
  • Bike fit on the first day to help you find your optimal riding position
  • Ride With GPS Experience on your phone to get all the information you need on your self-guided adventure

GEAR

  • Trek Checkpoint AL 5 or a Trek Electric-Assist Verve+ 1 Lowstep, available in a limited quantities
  • Garmin GPS computer with mount
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Shimano clipless road pedals, Shimano clipless mountain pedals, or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager men's and women's specific saddles
  • Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
  • Each bike is equipped with a flat pack containing one tube, two tire levers, CO2 cartridge with inflator, and a patch kit (the flat pack is only large enough for these items so if additional gear is needed, please plan to bring your own bar bag or small backpack for daily rides)
  • A mini frame pump
  • A bike lock, all necessary chargers, and a floor pump
  • Coupon valued up to $500 off a new Trek Bicycle. Your coupon will be delivered via email prior to your trip.
  • For the most comfortable ride, you may choose to bring your own pedals, saddle, and helmet on the trip. Your Trek Travel host will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

For self-guided trips you are welcome to thank your host with a gratuity based on your level of service.
  • Airfare and transportation to and from the trip meeting/departing locations
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Personal items purchased during the trip
  • Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
  • While we provide daily breakfast, the other meals are not included. On self-guided trips, Trek Travel provides restaurant recommendations and invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.

More Information

Rider Level: 2 - Recreational?

AVERAGE DAILY MILEAGE:
41 kilometers / 25 miles
TOTAL MILES:
206 kilometers / 127 miles
AVERAGE DAILY ELEVATION:
406 meters / 1,333 feet
TOTAL ELEVATION:
2,032 meters / 6,667 feet
TERRAIN: HILLY
The terrain is gently undulating for the most part and climbs are normally short efforts. Apart from the Downs Link section, most riding is on public roads. Some traffic will be encountered, but the routes are designed so that this is mostly on roads with lower speed limits (eg. in villages, towns) and a lot of the riding is on quiet, picturesque country roads. Our Sussex self-guided bike tour is ideal for our Type 2 Riders but it is also suited for first-time riders using an electric bike. Type 3 Riders will enjoy the extra mileage the avid route options offer.
NON-RIDING ACTIVITIES:
There are a variety of non-riding options on this trip for riders who want to take the afternoon off or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Except as specified in the itinerary, expenses and transportation to these activities are not included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
  • Sussex is the home of the British winemaking scene: enjoy a wine tasting in some of its amazing wineries
  • Visit Brighton, a vibrant, bohemian city rich in culture and history
  • Enjoy some lovely walks with spectacular views of the coastline and the Weald on a long distance trail along the ridge of hills known as the South Downs
  • Visit the grandiose gardens, amazing artefacts, and iconic architecture offered by the grand old country houses and estates, many of which are owned by the National Trust and open to the public
  • Enjoy a visit of Knepp Estate, a farm that has become famous for its pioneering rewilding work
  • Visit the Weald & Downland Museum and the Arundel Castle
  • Visit the Fishbourne Palace, the largest Roman Villa north of the Alps

See itinerary for specific daily ride distances and elevation options. On all of our vacations, Trek Travel seeks to find quiet, paved secondary roads or bike paths to experience a region; busy roads are avoided as much as possible. Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or Trek Travel's local experts to improve the trip experience.

Averages and totals are calculated from our Today’s Ride options.

Travel Details

How to Get There

FLY INTO:
Gatwick Airport (LGW)
MEETING TIME:
11:00 AM
MEETING LOCATION:
Ockenden Manor Hotel, Cuckfield

Say Farewell

FLY OUT OF:
Gatwick Airport (LGW)
DEPARTING TIME:
11:00 AM
DEPARTING LOCATION:
Ockenden Manor Hotel, Cuckfield

Arriving

We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into London Gatwick Airport (LGW).

London Gatwick has a train station in the south terminal with direct trains to Haywards Heath station about every 10 minutes, with a journey time of 15 minutes. One way tickets are between £7 and £15 (approximately $8-18 USD) depending on time of travel. Direct trains are also available from several London stations including London Victoria, Kings Cross, London Bridge and St Pancras. Journey time from London station is between 30-50 minutes. One way tickets between London Terminals (all London stations) and Haywards Heath are between £15 and £30 (approximately $18-36 USD) depending on time of travel. From Haywards Heath station, a short taxi ride (10 minutes) is the easiest way to reach the hotel. There is a taxi stand outside the ticket hall. Taxi cost is about £30 (approximately $36 USD).

An airport transfer from LGW to the hotel in Cuckfield is another easy option. It’s a 30 minute journey and costs around £40 (approximately $48 USD) each way. Tickets can be purchased at https://taxis.gatwickairport.com/

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at your trip hotel Ockenden Manor (Ockenden Lane, Cuckfield , West Sussex, RH17 5LD) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Depending on the number of guests booked for your departure date, it is possible we will ask you to shift your meeting time by approximately 30 minutes. Please have your riding gear readily accessible to avoid having to unpack your luggage. After a trip overview, you may change into your cycling gear where you will then be fitted to your Trek bike ensuring you will be comfortable for the week. Following a safety talk and a few tips about cycling in the area you will set off at your own pace through the roads of Sussex.

If you will be late for the meeting or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your host. You will receive an email a week before the trip start with their name and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our hotel, Ockenden Manor (+44 (0) 1444 416111) and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details.

View our pre hotel recommendations

Leaving

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at the trip hotel to take your bike and equipment and say farewell before your departure.

View our post hotel recommendations

Planning For Your Trip

Packing and Weather

The best time to visit Sussex, England is late-June through September. In this period you have a pleasant temperature and very little precipitation, with temperatures that range from 68°F to 77°F (20°C - 25°C). Always remember that rain is possible at any time as weather in the UK can be unpredictable! Please, be prepared with the proper rain gear in order to best enjoy your vacation. Packing List

Before and After Your Trip

before

London, England

Among the oldest of the world’s great cities—its history spanning nearly two millennia—London is also one of the most cosmopolitan cities and Britain's economic, transportation, and cultural centre. The City of London, its ancient core and financial centre, was founded by the Romans as Londinium and retains its medieval boundaries. The City of Westminster, to the west of the City of London, has for centuries hosted the national government and parliament. London's diverse cultures encompass over 300 languages and the city is home to some of the highest-ranked academic institutions in the world. Things to see in London are countless: its museums, galleries, libraries and cultural venues, including the British Museum, National Gallery, Natural History Museum, Tate Modern, British Library, and numerous West End theatres. London has four World Heritage Sites: the Tower of London, Kew Gardens, the combined Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey, and St Margaret's Church and also the historic settlement in Greenwich, where the Royal Observatory, Greenwich defines the prime meridian (0° longitude) and Greenwich Mean Time. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre- and post-trip hotel:

Why Trek Travel

Our Bikes

Our unrivaled selection of Trek Bikes sets the bar for quality and comfort. From the ultra-smooth Trek Domane SL 7 to the Trek Electric-Assist Verve+, you deserve the best ride on your vacation. Plus, we offer a range upgrade options to take you the extra mile.

Our Guides

Our guides are trained to make your trip magical. They aren't just experts in riding; they're trained in delivering uncompromising service in ways you won't believe. We know that it's the unexpected surprises that make a trip magical. That's why our guides pride themselves on anticipating your needs before you ask.

Your Day. You Decide.

Our vacations are built to deliver the ultimate in flexibility, from extreme relaxers to hard-core roadies. You pick your mileage, itinerary and experiences. We take care of the rest.

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