Cycling in and around Fishbourne

Routes, paths, and practical cycling from the village

Fishbourne's location on the flat coastal plain between Chichester and the harbour makes it well suited to cycling. The terrain is almost entirely flat, distances to Chichester and the harbour villages are short, and the network of lanes and paths provides options away from the busiest roads.

The most obvious cycling route is along the A259 to Chichester, a distance of about two miles. While the road is busy, there are sections of shared-use path alongside it, and the journey is quick enough to be a practical commuting option. Cycling into Chichester avoids the parking difficulties and congestion that affect drivers, particularly in the city centre.

South from the village, quiet lanes lead down to Dell Quay and the harbour shore. The route via Appledram Lane is particularly pleasant, running through flat farmland with views of the cathedral spire before reaching the waterside. This is a popular recreational ride and can be extended by continuing along the harbour edge.

West along the A259, the road to Bosham is rideable but narrow in places and busy with traffic. The quieter option is to use the lanes through Apuldram and along the harbour creeks, though these add distance and involve some navigation. The Salterns Way, a cycling and walking route, passes through the area and connects to the wider network of paths around Chichester Harbour.

The South Downs are accessible from Fishbourne via the lanes north of Chichester, with the climb onto the downs beginning at Lavant or Singleton. Road cyclists from the village regularly ride the loops through the downs via Goodwood, the Trundle, and the Meon Valley. Mountain bikers use the trails on the South Downs Way.

Bike security at Fishbourne station is basic, with a few cycle stands but no covered storage. Chichester has better facilities, including bike parking at the station and in the city centre.