Coastal Tour, Isle of Wight

The island has long been a favourite for seaside holidays. Tastes have changed it has re-invented itself as an adventure destination, spearheaded by its annual White Air extreme sports festival.

The cycling possibilities are plentiful, with a 200-mile network of undulating cycle-ways. A classic is the Coastal Tour loop. Start/finish: Any of the ferry ports (Yarmouth, Cowes or Ryde).

Hamsey and Barcombe Mills, East Sussex

This route has the added spice of wartime defences, Roman ruins and a steam railway at Isfield. If you are feeling like fulfilling some childhood ambitions, you can even go and pull some levers in the signal-box and try pulling the levers. This loop starts and finishes in Barcombe, near Lewes.

Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Hants

This is ideal for new riders wanting to get a taste of single-track forest trails. The terrain is fast and hilly but not too technical.

The Cuckoo Trail, East Sussex

According to yocals, the first cuckoo of spring was heard at Heathfield Fair. The trail is part of the National Cycle Network, following disused rail routes through Hailsham woodland and passes Michelham Priory, home to England’s longest medieval moat. Through this mainly traffic free journey, you will discover wild flowers and plenty of picnic points.

The South Downs, East & West Sussex

This Winchester to Brighton route called South Downs Way is a major three-day ride. Plenty of good hostelries on the route exist with fine ales.

Brighton Seafront to Hove

You may be best to avoid the annual naked bike ride as it will demand you stick to a designated route. We suggest starting at the new marina, taking in the sights of the nudist beach, before pottering through the Lanes and then on to Hove, viewing the mix of Victorian and Regency grandeur to your right and the beauty of nature to your left.