insideSUSSEX Magazine Issue 03 - May 2015 | Page 73

DAYSOUT

Hastings Jerwood Gallery to Bexhill De La Warr Pavilion
Another great one for beginners or families, as little legs won’t
mind a 3.5-mile jaunt, and there is plenty to do at both ends
of the journey. Start at the Jerwood Gallery in Hastings (an
award-winning gallery of contemporary art which is well worth
checking out) and finish at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill
(another contemporary art gallery, this time with a fascinating
museum attached while the whole family can enjoy). Part of
this route takes you onto the beach, so picking a day with
good weather is the best plan for completing this ride.

Cycle Route 2: Downs and Weald Cycle Route
National Cycle Route 2 is a big one – it runs from Dover in Kent all the way
down to St Austell in Cornwall, and of course you don’t have to cover the
whole 359 miles (unless you want to, it really is a great way to enjoy the
south coast of England), but why not cycle along part of it, the part that
runs from Brighton to Worthing (via Shoreham)? This route is still being
developed, and parts of it are sometimes inaccessible due to works, so it is
always worth checking beforehand in case you reach a diversion or find that
the whole way is closed. The Central Sussex and Surrey Cycle Map is a
great companion to have with you when you are exploring Sussex by bike.

South Downs Way: Eastbourne to Arundel
With 100 miles of peaceful countryside through the South Downs Way, you could
be forgiven for choosing this route and sticking with it – it really is lovely. The South
Downs Way meanders through Sussex and ends at Winchester for when you really
want to go places, but the route from Eastbourne to Arundel, which is around 40
miles, is a great one, and can be done in a day for those who like to travel fast, or
could be split into legs for those who prefer to enjoy the scenery as they go. This
National Park is well cared for, and the cycle routes are suitable for all fitness levels.

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Seven Sisters Country Park
In this stunning coastal
country park it’s possible
to complete a circular cycle
route on well paved, safe
paths. It’s a great way of
getting some practice in if
you are nervous of going out
onto the roads (just make
sure you keep an eye out for
pedestrians, as they always
have right of way). Seven
Sisters Country Park has over 700 acres to explore (not all by
bike, but why not take a break and stretch your legs for a bit?),
and the cycle route will take you right down to the beach.

Eastbourne’s Cycling Festival
If you really love bikes, and Sussex, then Eastbourne’s
Cycling Festival, which takes place on 13th and 14th
June, is the perfect place for you. There are a variety
of events for cyclists to take part in, everything from
races to novelty rides (including penny farthing races,
schools relays, stunt bike shows, and unicycling
displays); but for those who just want to watch there
will be dozens of stalls, trade stands, and places to
buy delicious food and drink dotted along the seafront.
www.eastbournecyclingfestival.com