Marley Common, Blackdown Hill and Forest Mere loop — South Downs National Park

Explore the northern quarter of the South Downs National Park with diverse landscapes that showcase part of the greensand ridge, an extensive sandstone escarpment forming part of The Weald.

Starting in Liphook, the route traverses Stanley and Marley Commons before a long climb up Blackdown Hill, Sussex's highest point. Sandy tracks, mixed woodland, yellow gorse and purple heather dominate the landscape. There are some excellent viewpoints at the summit of Blackdown, including a spot with a sandstone seat featuring a carving of a Lord Tennyson poem.

Weaving through woodland bridleways, the route then heads towards Forest Mere, the leafy grounds of a health spa with a beautiful lakeside trail, open to the public.

The route often traces parts of The Serpent Trail, a long-distance path highlighting the greensand hills’ outstanding landscape, wildlife and history.

Two-thirds of the terrain is off-road, and the climbs and descents tend to be long and gradual. A mountain or gravel bike is best suited for this trip.

As you reach the midway point of your adventure, having conquered most of the hills, a well-deserved pub, The Red Lion in Fernhurst, awaits you. It's worth noting that, apart from The Red Lion, there are no other food options along the route, except for a small bakery near Liphook station, which is open only in the mornings.

Liphook station is served by fast regular trains from London Waterloo, Guildford and Portsmouth Harbour. There are some unrestricted parking spaces in Newtown Road, a residential road close to the station.