UK NCN 20: London–Brighton

A classic ride from the capital to the sea. NCN 20 links London with Brighton using a mix of traffic‑free cycleways and quiet back roads, with just a few short busy sections. It’s mostly smooth and paved, with the odd gravel or hard‑packed stretch—fine on road bikes, comfier with slightly wider tires.

You’ll roll out through South London (think Wandle valley greenways), then into Surrey and West Sussex lanes, before a punchy approach near the South Downs and a fast run to Brighton’s seafront. Elevation is mostly rolling; nothing huge, but the Downs will wake the legs.

Ride it in a day for a solid city‑to‑coast adventure, or split it around Redhill or Crawley—there are handy train links along the route. Wayfinding is generally good on NCN signs. Expect a bit of everything: parks, riverside paths, village high streets, and that big finish by the pier. Perfect for a weekend mission with café stops and seaside chips at the end.