Cycling Routes
Exploring Littlehampton and the surrounding area by bicycle
Cycling is an increasingly popular way to explore Littlehampton and the surrounding West Sussex coastal plain, and the area offers a range of routes that cater to leisure riders, commuters and families. The flat terrain of the coastal strip, the dedicated cycle paths along the seafront and the quiet lanes of the Arun valley combine to create cycling conditions that are among the best in West Sussex.
The seafront promenade provides the most popular leisure cycling route, running from the harbour area eastward along the back of East Beach towards Rustington. The path is shared with pedestrians and can be busy during summer weekends, requiring patience and courtesy from cyclists. The surface is smooth and level, suitable for all types of bicycle, and the sea views make the ride a pleasure even at gentle speeds. Beyond Rustington, the coastal path continues towards Angmering and Ferring, providing a longer ride for those who want to extend their journey.
National Cycle Network Route 2 passes through the Littlehampton area, forming part of the long-distance route that runs along the south coast of England. The route uses a combination of dedicated cycle paths, quiet roads and shared-use paths, and the section through Littlehampton connects the town to Worthing to the east and Bognor Regis to the west. The route is waymarked with the distinctive blue and red NCN signs, and the mapping is available on the Sustrans website and cycling apps.
The Arun valley provides a scenic inland route, following the river northward towards Arundel through water meadows and farmland. The route is mostly on quiet lanes and tracks, with some sections that can be muddy after rain. The ride to Arundel is approximately four miles each way, with Arundel Castle as the visual focus throughout the journey as it dominates the skyline from its hilltop position. The return journey, with the sea breeze at your back, is particularly enjoyable.
For commuters, cycling provides a practical alternative to driving for journeys within the town and to neighbouring communities. The distances involved, typically two to five miles between residential areas and the main employment and retail centres, are well within comfortable cycling range on the flat coastal terrain. Cycle parking is available at the railway station, the town centre and the major shopping areas, and the combination of cycling and rail can extend the range of car-free commuting to destinations along the West Coastway line.
Cycle hire is available in the Littlehampton area for visitors who do not bring their own bicycles. Several operators offer standard bikes, electric bikes and family trailers, with daily and half-day hire rates. Electric bikes have expanded the appeal of cycling to people who might otherwise find the distances or the headwinds on the coast discouraging, and the hire market has responded to this demand.
Safety for cyclists on the roads around Littlehampton requires the usual awareness of traffic, particularly on the A259 coastal road and the roads through the town centre. Helmets, lights and high-visibility clothing are advisable, and cyclists should be aware that many drivers in the area are visitors unfamiliar with the local roads. The dedicated cycle paths and quiet lanes offer safer alternatives to the main roads for most leisure and commuting journeys.