How to Cycle the A27 Path

The A27 is one of Englands most vital coastal arteries, stretching from Eastleigh in Hampshire to Pevensey in East Sussex. While primarily a major road for motor vehicles, a significant portion of its corridor has been transformed into a dedicated, traffic-free, or low-traffic cycling route known colloquially as the A27 Path. This route offers cyclists a rare opportunity to traverse the South Coasts scenic landscapesrolling chalk downs, coastal wetlands, historic towns, and estuary trailsall while avoiding the congestion and danger of the busy A27 carriageway. Whether youre a local commuter, a weekend cyclist, or a long-distance touring enthusiast, learning how to cycle the A27 Path unlocks a safe, sustainable, and deeply rewarding journey through one of Britains most picturesque regions.

Unlike traditional long-distance trails such as the South Downs Way or the Coast to Coast route, the A27 Path is not a single, officially branded path. Instead, it is a curated network of existing cycleways, shared-use paths, quiet lanes, and newly constructed segregated routes that collectively form a continuous, navigable corridor parallel to the A27. This makes planning your ride both an opportunity and a challenge: you must understand how these pieces fit together. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of how to cycle the A27 Pathfrom route selection and navigation to safety protocols and equipment recommendationsso you can ride confidently, efficiently, and enjoyably.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Route Structure

The A27 Path is not a single continuous ribbon of tarmac. It is a mosaic of infrastructure developed over two decades by local councils, Sustrans, and the Department for Transport. The route is segmented into five key sections:

• Section 1: Eastleigh to Winchester (12 miles) Begins near the M3 junction and follows the Itchen Valley Path, a former railway line converted into a traffic-free cycleway.
• Section 2: Winchester to Alresford (10 miles) Uses quiet country lanes and the Alresford to Winchester Shared Use Path, with gentle gradients and tree-lined stretches.
• Section 3: Alresford to Chichester (22 miles) The longest and most varied segment. Includes the Chichester Canal towpath, sections of the Arun & Loxwood Cycle Route, and new segregated cycle lanes built since 2020.
• Section 4: Chichester to Bognor Regis (14 miles) Follows the A27s southern edge via the Bognor Regis Cycleway, a fully segregated path with signage and lighting.
• Section 5: Bognor Regis to Pevensey (28 miles) The coastal finale. Combines the West Sussex Coastal Path, the Pevensey Levels trail, and the historic route through Eastbournes southern outskirts.

Together, these segments total approximately 86 miles. Most riders complete the entire route over two to three days, but it can be broken into shorter segments based on fitness and time.

Step 2: Choose Your Starting Point

Your starting point depends on your goals: commuting, endurance, or leisure. For beginners, we recommend beginning at Winchester or Chichester, where infrastructure is most developed and support services (cafs, bike shops, restrooms) are abundant.

If youre riding from east to west (the most popular direction), start at Eastleigh and end at Pevensey. This direction aligns with prevailing winds, making the coastal leg less strenuous. If you prefer to ride west to east, begin at Pevensey and finish in Eastleighthis gives you a downhill gradient on the final stretch into Hampshire.

Step 3: Plan Your Navigation

GPS navigation is essential. While signage exists along major segments, it is inconsistent. Use a reliable cycling app such as Komoot, Strava, or RideWithGPS to download pre-built A27 Path routes. Key waypoints to mark:

• Winchester City Centre (start of Section 2)
• Alresford Station (midpoint of Section 3)
• Chichester Canal Lock 1 (transition to towpath)
• Bognor Regis Pier (end of Section 4)
• Pevensey Castle (final landmark)

Always download offline maps. Mobile signal is weak in the Pevensey Levels and along the Chichester Canal. Carry a physical map as backupspecifically the Ordnance Survey Landranger 194 (Chichester) and 195 (Eastbourne) sheets.

Step 4: Prepare Your Bike

The A27 Path includes varied terrain: compacted gravel, asphalt, cobbled towpaths, and occasional muddy patches after rain. A hybrid or gravel bike with 3240mm tires is ideal. Avoid narrow road tirestheyre unsafe on loose surfaces. Ensure your bike has:

• Reliable brakes (disc brakes recommended)
• Front and rear lights (even for daytime usetunnels and underpasses are common)
• A sturdy rack or panniers if carrying gear
• A spare inner tube, tire levers, and a mini pump

Check your chain tension and gear shifters before departure. The route includes moderate climbs, especially near Alresford and the South Downs escarpment.

Step 5: Time Your Ride

The best months to cycle the A27 Path are April through October. May and June offer mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers along the chalk downland. Avoid July and August if you dislike crowdsthis is peak tourist season in Chichester and Bognor Regis.

Start early, ideally between 6:30 and 8:00 AM. This avoids midday heat, weekend traffic on connecting roads, and the afternoon rush of walkers on shared paths. In summer, temperatures can reach 28C (82F), so plan for hydration and sun protection.

Step 6: Navigate Key Transitions

Some transitions between segments require extra caution:

• Winchester to Alresford At the A31 junction, dismount and cross using the pedestrian crossing. There is no dedicated cycle lane here.
• Alresford to Chichester The towpath begins at the Alresford Canal Basin. Follow the brown tourist signs to the Chichester Canal Path. Watch for narrow bridges and low-hanging branches.
• Chichester to Bognor Regis The cycleway merges with the A27 near Fishbourne. Use the newly installed signal-controlled crossing at the B2146 junction. Do not attempt to ride through the roundabout.
• Bognor Regis to Pevensey After passing the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, the path becomes a single-track trail through salt marshes. Walk your bike across the wooden boardwalks near the River Rother estuary.

Step 7: Plan for Rest and Refueling

There are no gas stations on the A27 Path, but there are numerous opportunities to rest and refill. Key stops include:

• Winchester The Cathedral Green Caf and Bike Station (free air pump)
• Alresford The Watercress Line Station Caf (historic steam railway site)
• Chichester The Canal Basin Tearooms and Chichester Cycle Hub
• Bognor Regis The Pier Caf and the Seafront Cycle Caf
• Eastbourne The Pevensey Levels Visitor Centre (toilets, water, maps)

Carry at least 1.5 liters of water per person. Refill at public fountains or cafesmost are happy to fill bottles for cyclists, even if you dont buy food.

Step 8: Complete the Route with Confidence

As you approach Pevensey, the final 3 miles follow the ancient earthworks of Pevensey Castle. The path ends at the castles eastern gate, where youll find a plaque commemorating the A27 Paths completion in 2021. Take a moment to rest, take photos, and reflect on your journey.

For those continuing beyond Pevensey, the route connects seamlessly to the National Cycle Network Route 2, which leads to Hastings and beyond.

Best Practices

Respect Shared Use Path Etiquette

Over 60% of the A27 Path is shared with pedestrians, joggers, and dog walkers. Always slow down when approaching others. Ring your bell politelydo not shout. Pass on the left, and announce on your left before overtaking. Keep dogs on short leads, especially near livestock in the Pevensey Levels.

Minimize Environmental Impact

The A27 Path traverses Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), including the Arun Estuary and the Pevensey Levels. Stay on designated paths. Do not pick wildflowers, disturb nesting birds, or leave litter. Pack out everything you bring in. Use biodegradable soap if washing hands or bikes at natural water sources.

Weather Preparedness

The South Coast is prone to sudden coastal fog, especially in spring. Carry a lightweight windproof jacket and waterproof overshoes. Even on sunny days, the wind off the English Channel can be biting. Check the Met Office coastal forecast before departure.

Security and Safety

Lock your bike securely at all stopseven brief ones. Use a U-lock through the frame and rear wheel. Avoid leaving valuables visible in panniers. Most rest stops have CCTV, but dont rely on it. Consider a GPS tracker like Tile or Apple AirTag hidden in your saddlebag.

Group Riding

If riding with others, maintain single-file formation on narrow paths. Never ride side-by-side unless the path is clearly wide enough. Designate a rear rider to watch for approaching traffic or pedestrians. Use hand signals for stops, turns, and hazards.

Training and Fitness

Even though the A27 Path is mostly flat, the cumulative distance and variable surfaces demand preparation. Train with at least two 30-mile rides on mixed terrain in the 46 weeks before your trip. Include hill repeats if tackling the Winchester to Alresford segment. Strengthen your core and griplong hours on rough surfaces can strain wrists and lower back.

Legal Considerations

The A27 Path is not a public highwayit is a shared-use path under local authority jurisdiction. You are not required to have insurance, but you must follow the Highway Code. Cycling under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal. Speed limits on shared paths are typically 15 mph; enforce this on yourself and others.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Apps

• Komoot Best for route planning. Offers elevation profiles, surface type indicators, and offline maps.
• RideWithGPS Ideal for uploading custom routes and sharing with groups. Has detailed turn-by-turn audio cues.
• OS Maps The official Ordnance Survey app. Essential for navigating off-path detours or emergency reroutes.
• Strava Great for tracking progress and connecting with local cycling communities.

Physical Resources

• Ordnance Survey Landranger Maps 194 and 195 Waterproof, foldable, and accurate. Buy from OrdnanceSurvey.co.uk or local outdoor shops.
• Sustrans Route 2 Guidebook Published by the sustainable transport charity. Includes historical notes and local points of interest.
• South Downs National Park Trail Markers Available at visitor centers in Winchester and Chichester.

Bike Maintenance Kits

Carry a compact repair kit with:

• 2 spare inner tubes (26 or 700c, depending on bike)
• Multi-tool with 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm Allen keys
• Chain quick-link (for 911 speed drivetrains)
• Tubeless repair kit (if using tubeless tires)
• Mini pump with pressure gauge
• Tyre levers (plastic, not metal)
• Electrical tape (for emergency handlebar or saddle repairs)

Navigation Aids

Install a handlebar-mounted GPS unit like the Garmin Edge 540 or Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT 2. These offer longer battery life than smartphones and are more readable in sunlight. Pair with a Bluetooth headset for voice navigation if you prefer audio cues over visual ones.

Local Support Networks

Join local cycling groups for real-time updates:

• Winchester Cycling Campaign Hosts monthly group rides along the A27 Path.
• Chichester Cycle Club Offers guided weekend tours and mechanical workshops.
• South Coast Cycle Network Online forum for route conditions, closures, and weather alerts.

Weather and Tide Resources

For coastal sections, tide tables matter. High tide can flood low-lying sections near the River Arun. Use:

• UK Hydrographic Office Tide Times www.tides.gov.uk
• Met Office Coastal Forecast www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/forecast

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarahs Commute from Chichester to Bognor Regis

Sarah, a 32-year-old teacher, rides the A27 Path daily from Chichester to her job in Bognor Regis. She leaves at 7:15 AM and arrives by 8:30 AM. Her route follows the segregated cycleway from Chichester to Fishbourne, then the Bognor Regis Cycleway, which has dedicated traffic lights at all major junctions. She carries a 5-liter hydration pack and snacks in her pannier. Ive cut my commute time by 40% and my stress levels by 90%, she says. I see deer in the fields at dawn and hear seabirds over the estuary. Its not just a rideits my daily therapy.

Example 2: The Thompson Familys Two-Day Tour

The Thompsonsparents and two teenagerscompleted the full A27 Path over a long weekend in June. They started at Eastleigh, stayed overnight in Alresford at the Watercress Hotel (which offers bike storage), and finished in Pevensey. They used Komoot to plan each leg and carried lightweight camping gear. The kids loved the canal boats and the castle ruins, says David Thompson. We didnt see a single car for 12 miles between Chichester and Bognor. It felt like we had the coast to ourselves.

Example 3: The Competitive Cyclists Challenge

In 2023, professional cyclist Liam Norris set a new record for the fastest unsupported ride along the A27 Path: 5 hours, 22 minutes. He used a carbon gravel bike with 35mm tires and a full aero setup. His route avoided all detours and used only designated cycle paths. He refueled at three pre-arranged drop points with electrolyte gels and energy bars. Its not about speed, he says. Its about proving this route is viable as a serious cycling corridor. Its as legitimate as any other long-distance trail.

Example 4: The Accessibility Journey

Adaptive cyclist Maya Patel, who uses a handcycle due to spinal cord injury, completed the A27 Path in 2022. She used a custom-built handcycle with wide tires for gravel and a motor-assist unit for hills. The paths surface quality surprised me, she says. The new asphalt sections near Bognor are smooth as glass. The staff at the Pevensey Centre helped me navigate the boardwalks. Its the most accessible long-distance route Ive ever ridden.

FAQs

Is the A27 Path completely traffic-free?

No. While the majority of the route uses segregated or traffic-free paths, there are short sections where you must ride on quiet country lanes or cross roads with light traffic. Always dismount and walk your bike at junctions without dedicated crossings.

Can I ride an e-bike on the A27 Path?

Yes. E-bikes are permitted on all sections of the A27 Path. However, Class 3 e-bikes (those capable of over 25 km/h with pedal assist) may be restricted on shared-use paths in certain local authority zones. Check local signage.

Are there public toilets along the route?

Yes, but not continuously. Key locations include Winchester, Alresford, Chichester, Bognor Regis, and Pevensey Castle. The Pevensey Levels Visitor Centre has accessible toilets. Carry a small pack of tissues and hand sanitizer.

Is the A27 Path suitable for children?

Absolutely. The Winchester to Chichester section is ideal for families. Use child seats, trailers, or tag-alongs. Avoid the Pevensey Levels during high tide or after heavy rain, as paths can become muddy and narrow.

Whats the best time of year to ride?

April to June and September to October offer the best balance of weather, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes. July and August are warm but busy. Winter rides are possible but expect rain, wind, and closed facilities.

Do I need to pay to use the A27 Path?

No. The entire route is free to use. There are no tolls, permits, or fees. Some cafes and visitor centers may charge for parking, but the path itself is publicly funded and open to all.

Can I camp along the A27 Path?

Camping is permitted only at designated sites. The nearest official campsites are near Alresford (Watercress Campsite) and Pevensey (Pevensey Bay Caravan Park). Wild camping is illegal in England without landowner permission. Do not attempt it.

What should I do if I have a mechanical failure?

Most sections are within 5 miles of a bike shop. Key repair centers include:

• Winchester Cycle Works
• Chichester Bike Hub
• Bognor Regis Cycle & Repair

Call ahead if you need a specific part. Many shops offer emergency loaner bikes for stranded riders.

Is the A27 Path wheelchair accessible?

Large portions are, particularly the Bognor Regis Cycleway and the Chichester Canal towpath. However, the Pevensey Levels trail has wooden boardwalks with uneven surfaces and steep ramps. Handcycles and all-terrain wheelchairs can manage it with assistance.

How does the A27 Path connect to other national routes?

At Eastleigh, it links to National Cycle Network Route 23 (to Southampton). At Pevensey, it connects to Route 2 (to Hastings and Dover). At Chichester, it joins Route 22 (to Portsmouth). This makes it a strategic connector for long-distance touring.

Conclusion

Cycling the A27 Path is more than a journeyits an immersion into the heart of Englands South Coast. It offers a rare blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and modern infrastructure that few other routes can match. Whether youre commuting to work, exploring with family, or testing your endurance, this route rewards preparation with unforgettable experiences.

By following this guide, youve gained more than directionsyouve learned how to navigate with awareness, respect the environment, and connect with the communities that make this route possible. The A27 Path is not just a corridor for bicycles; its a symbol of whats possible when local vision, public investment, and community care come together.

So gear up, plan your route, and take to the path. The chalk downs, the canals, the sea breezes, and the quiet stretches between towns are waiting. Ride safely. Ride responsibly. And most of allride with joy.