#bikeroute

Accessible Cycle Routes

In our "accessible cycle Routes" series, we share trails that are suitable for riders of a variety of abilities. These routes may be shorter than those typically found on popular cycling platforms, with gentler slopes and smoother surfaces. This makes them suitable for individuals with health conditions or those in the early stages of recovery.

A full video of the route can be found at the bottom of the page.

Location

Tilgate Lake is the largest of three lakes at Tilgate Park and serves as a hub for water-based activities, including sailing, canoeing, rowing, and other water sports. The lake offers welcoming outdoor experiences for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Click here to find out more about Tilgate Lake and its accessibility features when visiting on foot, by wheelchair, or by mobility scooter.

Parking

Tilgate Fisherman's car park is located just before the golf course on Tilgate Drive. It is open all day, every day including bank holidays. There is a 2.1m height restriction.

There are 8 disabled parking spaces. 

Pay and Display price:

£1.20 Per hour, up to four hours

£6.00 Over four hours (up to 24 hours)

Parking is free for blue badge holders.

About the route

Length: 1.2 mi

Duration: <15 min

Elevation: 25m

Suitable for: Everyone

This short circular route will take riders through woodland areas, past peaceful ponds, and offer stunning views of Tilgate Lake.

The route's short length will cater to visitors of all abilities and is perfect for those just getting back on their bike. It also features several optional paths, so you can extend your ride if you wish.

Accessibility

The route begins with a ramp leading up from the car park to the lakeside path. Once on the main path, the surface is well-maintained and smooth, with gentle inclines.

Throughout the lakeside area, benches are placed approximately every 50 meters, offering convenient resting spots. Remember to ride slowly and give plenty of space to pedestrians for everyone's safety.

Public toilets are available nearby at the main Tilgate car park.

Conclusion

This short circular route is perfect for visitors of all abilities, cycling or otherwise. If you're a more advanced rider, you may want to extend the route to include more of the park, or alternatively click here for a list of all our "accessible cycle routes" to find a route that suits your needs.

Accessible Cycle Routes

In our "accessible cycle Routes" series, we share trails that are suitable for riders of a variety of abilities. These routes may be shorter than those typically found on popular cycling platforms, with gentler slopes and smoother surfaces. This makes them suitable for individuals with health conditions or those in the early stages of recovery.

Parking

Parking at Horsell Common is free, with a limit of 2 hours. There are around 30 spaces, including two for blue badge holders.

About the route

Click here for more information on Horsell Common's wildlife, pond, and influence on H.G. Wells's 1898 novel War of the Worlds.

Horsell Common, a 355-hectare green space in Woking, Surrey, is a haven for dog walkers, cyclists, and families alike. Visitors can enjoy a mix of landscapes, including heathland, woodland, and meadows.

Along this scenic circular route, you'll have the option to stop at the McLaren Centre, where you can take in breathtaking views – particularly during sunrise or sunset.

Length: 3.6 miles

Duration: 28 min

Suitable for:

Car park to McLaren - all levels

Point 3 onwards - more confident riders

A video of the route is included at the bottom of the page.

Accessibility

Point 1: The initial part of the route from the car park to the sand pit is gentle. The path is flat and well-maintained, so it should be easy to navigate. You'll find benches at the sand pit for a place to rest. The distance from the car park to the sand pit is approximately 400 metres.

Point 2: If you're going to the McLaren Centre, follow the stone path from the private road, through a short alleyway. This path is fairly level, though bumpy. The stone path continues towards Fairoaks Airport and can be followed as desired for a view of the mclaren centre or to lunch tables.

From this point, riders can decide which way to continue. Return back the way they came on the easier route, or continue the full circuit, which increases the difficulty and often includes muddy, uneven surfaces and minor slopes.

If you plan on continuing the full route there are two options to reach point 3:

Crossing a field and to a raised wooden path (physically challenging).

Return the way you came and turn right at the private road.

To access the raised wooden path, riders will have to dismount and lift the bike.

Point 3: At point 3 the raised woodland path meets the private road again. Turn right for the full circuit.

Between points 3 and 4, there are a variety of surfaces. Expect muddy areas and potholes. There aren't many benches here, and while the slopes are gentle, they extend for long stretches.

Follow the road until you eventually reach a car park. From there, you'll take the bridleway back up to the sand pit, and then back to the car park where you started.

Point 4: At Point 4, there's a pond located just a short distance from the main bridleway. It's a great place to stop and take a break. The paths improve from this point, although there's a slight incline.

Remember:

Be prepared for varying surfaces throughout the route, especially between Points 3 and 4.

The video below will give you a better understanding of the route and its conditions after rain.

Conclusion

Overall, Horsell Common is a welcoming destination for cyclists of all skill levels. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride or a more challenging route, you'll find a path to suit your needs.

With minor slopes, a 250-watt ebike can handle this location with ease as long as you avoid the muddy sections. The longer route is suited to riders who are confident that they can manage uneven surfaces seeking a quick, invigorating 30-minute ride.

Accessible Cycle Routes

In our "accessible cycle Routes" series, we share trails that are suitable for riders of a variety of abilities. These routes may be shorter than those typically found on popular cycling platforms, with gentler slopes and smoother surfaces. This makes them suitable for individuals with health conditions or those in the early stages of recovery.

Location

Horsham Park is situated in the middle of town and is spread over 60 acres of land. The park has a wide range of attractions, including a duck pond, a maze, picnic areas, and play facilities.

This circular route is perfect for a short bike ride, with plenty to see along the way. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit any time of year.

About the route:

Length: 1.5 mi

Duration: <20 min

Elevation: 50m

Suitable for: Everyone

There is one small section of the park, by the Kaya Café, where riders are asked to dismount.

Along the route there are plenty of things to stop and see; some of these include:

Duck Pond

Kaya Café

The Italian Coffee Guy

St Leonard's Forest Dragon Maze

Park House Sensory Garden

Human Nature Garden

Changing Places and accessible toilets (in Pavilions in the Park leisure centre)

Click here, for more info about Hurst Park and its accessibility.

Parking

There are four car parks at Horsham Park:

North Parade

Hurst Road (Pavilions Leisure Centre)

North Street

Jubilee Car Park

Parking Prices

Mon-Sat (08:00 - 18:00)

1 Hour: £1.10

2 Hours: £2.00

3 Hours: £3.00

-Maximum stay: 3 hours-

Sun (09:00 - 17:00)

Flat Rate: £1.70

All the car parks have disabled parking spaces. Charges still apply to Blue Badge holders unless they receive any of the higher rates of mobility or living allowance of PIP and have registered with Horsham parking services.

Accessibility

All paths throughout Horsham Park are well-maintained and feature gentle inclines, making them accessible for riders of all abilities. E-bike riders will require little to no pedalling due to these optimum conditions.

Frequent benches are available throughout the grounds, typically located every 25 to 50 meters, with a few larger gaps of around 100 meters between them. Perfect for those who may need to take breaks.

Visitors on bikes should remember to keep pedestrians in mind, giving plenty of space and riding at a slow pace.

Some smaller paths may require riders to pass pedestrians on the grass.