This destination ride takes us to Brighton on a route derived from one provided by cycle.travel
The Coulsdon South start avoids the London roads and the route uses country lanes and two short sections of off-road. As it is tricky getting to Coulsdon South on a weekday the weekend is recommended. The route does include the famous Ditchling Beacon hill towards the end so keep something in reserve. Having arrived at Brighton Pier turn right and follow the coast as a well earned bonus as this will naturally take you onto Boundary Road and a return to the station. A 9.30am start from Coulsdon South gets you to Brighton for 4pm if you keep moving and don't linger too long over coffee though work out timings for the group you are taking.
Ride type:
Guided Ride
Ride suitability:
Local Rides Challenging
Ride title:
Day out: Brighton
Start Postcode:
CR5 3EA
Elevation:
GPX references:
Farringdon station to London Bridge station (15 minutes)
Liverpool Street station to London Bridge station (5 minutes)
Coulsdon South to Brighton
Introduce your route:
This long ride includes significant hills with over 900m of elevation. It is recommended that you have ridden similar distances and elevations. If you have questions or concerns contact the ride leader. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you.
Kind of roads you'll be riding:
We will use a mix of roads and cycle paths on this hilly route which does have short sections of main road with fast moving traffic.
Stops on the way:
We will stop for drinks and snacks along the way though - subject to the riders and the weather on the day - there will be just one café or pub stop. It is worth planning ahead as the route doesn't naturally pass many. The route has been adjusted to pass the following eateries. Though Pericles is a little early it has some garden seating at the back and are happy to fill eateries bottles.
- 22 miles, 2hr 30m
- Top Road, Sharpthorne, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 4PQ
- 27 miles, 3hr
- The Green Man, Horsted Keynes, West Sussex, RH17 7AS
What to bring:
Please check your bike at home before the ride leaving yourself time to remedy any issues such as brake adjustments and repairing punctures. Bring a spare inner tube of the correct size and valve type for your bike, the tools to repair a puncture, a bike lock, water and a snack. It is advised that you bring money for the café or unexpected circumstances such as taking the train home. Please be mindful that not everywhere takes cash payment.
Consider the duration of the ride, the time of day you will be riding and the weather forecast. Dress appropriately ensuring no loose clothing or long laces that could get entangled in bike parts.
Route description:
Starting at Coulsdon South station we will make our way to Brighton taking in country lanes and various hills including the notorious Ditchling Beacon.
Starting point description:
Arrive 10 minutes before the ride start time for the briefing. We will meet outside Coulsdon South station. Postcode CR5 3EA.
Riders can get to Coulsdon South station by any route though the following is suggested based on September 2026 train times. Two trains are shown to manage the number of bikes on the train and any delays. The Horsham train is direct.
First cohort:
07:30 arrive Farringdon by Met line
07:50 arrive London Bridge by bike
08:19 -> 08:45 Coulsdon South
08:50 -> 09:15 Coffee at Neros!
Second cohort:
08:00 arrive Farringdon by Met line
08:20 arrive London Bridge by bike
08:55 -> 09:21 Coulsdon South
All cohorts:
09:30 ride start time
Ride distance (miles):
47
Riding time (minutes):
330
Ride level (Easygoing, Steady, Challenging):
Steady
Overall duration (minutes):
450
Ride Leader Notes: