The coffee stop is a staple of club runs and social rides, especially at this time of year. Here are some of the South Downs finest tearooms and coffee shops
The best coffee stops in the South Downs
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A slice of cake always tastes better when it's been earned, and there's no better way to earn a treat than putting in some miles on the bike. With help from our friends at The Great Sussex Way, here are some of the best tea and coffee stops if you're exploring the South Downs by bike.
Pavilion Tearoom, Stansted Park
Stansted Park will host one of the stop-offs on the Classic Rides at Eroica Britannia 2022. If you want a preview, ride to the Pavilion Tearoom in the beautiful Walled Garden. There's plenty of space inside or outside if the weather is fine. We thoroughly recommend a slice of the jam and buttercream cake!
Flint Barn Café, Cocking
Right besides the South Downs Way – a hugely popular route with off-road cyclists – sits the Flint Barn Café. Open for breakfast and lunch on weekdays and weekends, the café is based in an old dairy farm on the Cowdray Estate. Expect a wide selection of cakes and treats, with plenty of choice for vegans. A warming bowl of soup is ideal for mid-ride refuelling on a cold day.
Billy's on the Beach, Bracklesham Bay
If you're cycling to the coast rather than the hills, head down to Billy's on the Beach in Bracklesham Bay. It's great for seafood. Moules frites may seem extravagant on a bike ride, but why not? Otherwise enjoy a toastie on the beach, or if you favour something sweeter, try one of the homemade pancakes.
Lodsworth Larder, Lodsworth
We've got a soft spot for the Lodsworth Larder, and not just because it stocks produce from the Goodwood Dairy. This vibrant community shop sells all sorts of local food and drink, with takeaway teas, coffees, and other hot drinks.
Garton's Coffee House, Midhurst
Midhurst has to be one of the prettiest towns in West Sussex, and a great base for exploring the South Downs by bike. Whether you want a tasty breakfast before you hit the road, or something to stoke the boiler in the middle of a long ride, head to Garton's Coffee House.
Tiffin's Tea Rooms, Petworth
With its antique shops and the beautiful Petworth House and Park, the small market town of Petworth packs in so much culture and history. It's also well served if you need somewhere to refuel on the bike. Drop by Tiffin's Tea Rooms for locally sourced food and delicious tea and coffee.