“The Downs… too much for one pair of eyes, enough to float a whole population in happiness, if only they would look”
Virginia Woolf, diaries
teaming up with the amazing
Mason Cycles
We've teamed up with the amazing Mason Cycles for an experience that is going to be quite special. Mason has flung open their gates, barn doors and arms to welcome us in for an overnight camp at their HQ on the stunning Applesham Farm. With far-reaching views across the valley and fab camp setup, outdoor fireside vibes and delicious food - prepare to be amazed!
The South Downs Way is recognised as one of the UK's must-ride off-road routes.
Breath-taking and stunning views across both land and sea are outstanding features of the surprisingly vast and unspoilt natural wilderness.
Starting in England's ancient capital - Winchester - the 100 mile route traverses the spectacular South Downs Way National Park on an ancient track which is sometimes referred to as the "Neolithic motorway".
Almost entirely off-road - you'll be blown away by the natural beauty of the extraordinary and undulating coastal landscape which skirts the stark, beautiful white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters and ends by Beachy Head above Eastbourne.
To add to the magic - spend a night under star-studded skies! Now recognised as an International Dark Sky Reserve - the South Downs' joins this exclusive club of 19 DSR's worldwide.
The Plan
Saturday morning 20 May
Gather at the fab South Downs Social - Winchester's coolest bike caff for a coffee and briefing before rolling out onto the trails. If you fancy arriving on Friday pm/eve you can camp at Holden Farm (6 miles out of Winchester on day 1 route!).
Gravel, gravel and more gravel awaits - along with rolling countryside, spectacular views as you head out west towards Chilcombe, Telegraph Hill and meandering gently on past Winchester Hill Fort and the the Queen Elizabeth Country Park. En-route you’ll find South Harting - complete with post office, a handful of shops and pubs. Climbs are rewarded by spectacular views from elevated ridges leading up to the fort at Beacon Hill. At Burton Down you’ll start a long descent down to the banks of the River Arun.
Refresh and refuel at one of the Cadence's fab Clubhouses en-route with their hand-crafted coffee, cake et al to keep you going ...
Roll into basecamp at Mason Cycles to enjoy the evening meal around the camp fire before tucking in for the night.
On Sunday morning savour a delicious refuelling breakfast and head out for day 2 which is a much shorter 65 km. The trail rides high above Brighton offering breath taking scenery across the Downs and the ocean beyond. Ditchling Beacon is the highpoint and the highlight with its 360 views. The roller coaster drops you down to the River Ouse - up to Firle Beacon - down to Alfriston (careful here!). The trail then skirts the white cliffs of the Seven Sisters - which are a truly awesome sight and mark a welcome end to the trail at Cadence's Clubhouse, Beachy Head, Eastbourne.
book your space now, places are very limited on the inaugural event!
Ticket Price PP - £95.00