National trails
The 9 ½ mile Forest Way runs through Hartfield and is part of the National Cycle Network Route 21 which runs for 94 miles between Greenwich and Eastbourne. The route also forms part of the 164 mile Downs and Weald Way between London and Hastings and the Avenue Verte, a 247 or 287 mile ride from London to Paris.
Local challenges
The Forest Way and Ashdown Forest circular is a 39 mile ride with a few hills and glorious views of Winnie-The-Pooh country, passing through Hartfield. Starting just a short way down the Forest Way in Groombridge, and not for the faint-hearted, the Ashdown Forest and Crowborough circular ride is just 29 miles long, but with 11 climbs in total, including a 150 metre push up to the top of Ashdown Forest, you’ll definitely be glad of a rest and a drink when you get back to the Anchor Inn!
Please note that off-road cycling is not permitted on Ashdown Forest.
1066 Country
Travelling a little further afield the 1066 circular is an undulating 43 mile ride taking you from Hastings, along the coast and up into the beautiful countryside.
Anchor Inn facilities for cyclists
All this makes the Anchor Inn a perfect base for cycling in the High Weald and beyond, and a great spot to park up for lunch or liquid refreshment. We can also provide packed lunches for riders (please order the day before) and we offer free water bottle refills.
If you’re bringing your own bike then we can provide a safe place to store them overnight, or you can hire one from the Country Bikes station in our car park. If you have any special requests, such as children’s bikes or extra adult bikes, then please contact Country Bikes at least 24 hours before you arrive.
Please note that our nearest bike repair shop is In-Gear in Forest Row.