EXPLORE
Mountain Biking Area
Downhill thrills on the Steyning Downland
Biking For All Ages
The mountain biking area is hidden high up in the woods, overlooking Steyning Rifle Range. It pre-dates the establishment of the Steyning Downland Scheme in 2007 and was built by local bikers, using only hand tools and a great deal of motivation!
Today the mountain bike area covers about 14 acres of steep, chalky ground. It is divided into ‘runs’ with different levels of difficulty, from blue (least challenging) to purple (most difficult). These are well signposted and maintained by our volunteers, with clear health and safety notices are posted throughout the area.
Riders of all ages are very welcome to use the mountain bike area free of charge, but please ensure you wear a helmet at all times and walk the trails before riding them.
What You Can See
To visit the mountain bike area, park in one of the Steyning Town car parks and cycle to Charlton Court Cottages on Mouse Lane (What3Words: ///regularly.steadily.lecturing). Turn left there and cycle up the public bridleway, into the trees until you see fork in the path at ///townhouse.balloons.payback. Turn left there and follow the public bridleway and an informal path to ///perfectly.removals.proofs. You have reached the top of the mountain bike area. Please read the safety notices and walk the routes before you cycle.
Access the mountain biking area using the public bridleways only. Cycling is not permitted on the network of public footpaths and permissive paths elsewhere on the Steyning Downland. These include Nightingale Lane and Allotments lane, which are for use by walkers only.
Mountain biking area
Jumps
Downhill trail
Trials are signposted throughout
What We Have Done
Our main priority is keeping the jumps and rides on the mountain bike area well maintained and in a safe condition. We walk the routes every three months, noting any dangerous features and making sure they are included in the ongoing maintenance programme. Signage is also renewed regularly.
In recent years, Ash Dieback Disease has become a new hazard, due to infected trees collapsing without warning, particularly in windy weather. For this reason, we strongly advise bikers not to use the area if wind speeds are forecast above 24 mph (‘fresh breeze’ on the Beaufort Scale).
Our Future Plans
In future we hope to organise competitions and training days on the mountain bike area, with the aim of encouraging young people to learn to ride competently, using the proper equipment.
How You Can Help
As a registered charity, we depend upon the support of our Friends and donors. There are many ways to support us, and help wildlife to thrive.
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Volunteer With Us
Everyone is welcome to become involved, regardless of skills, age or experience. Discover the many ways you can lend a hand.
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