Tilburstow Hill

Ride Level: Red - Challenging 

Gravel/CX MTB | GPX Route | Traffic-free | Natural, Gravel and Single Track | 40 km/24 miles 

A ride of contrasts, starting from Coulsdon South Station the ride covers the broad chalky heathlands before descending the North Downs ridge to skirt Godstone.

Any questions?  have a look at our FAQ's or Contact us 

Ride Description

Catch the train to Coulsdon South and pretty much immediately you are riding through the broad chalk Happy Valley, gradually climbing as you head south. 

It does get a bit lumpy as you approach the ridgeline, but it's worth it for the views from the lookout - on a clear day you can see France - err, not quite, South Downs for sure. 

It's a steep descent towards Bletchingly, when you cross the A25, wriggle a bit and approach a sandy and in summer technical climb up Tilburstow Hill.

The bridleway leads you around the other side and along the wooded greensand ridge to Hurst Green and then a shady little run down in Oxted awaits you.

Take a break here - cos the next climb up the ridgeline is arduous. Near the top of the ridgeline take care, it's a confusing mess of bridleway and footpaths - you may have to walk your bike right a the top. 

From Hurst point, the route heads along the Woldingham Valley, with another short sharp climb to Warlingham. There's a welcome break on the tarmac through Whyteleafe before another steep old climb up to the iconic WWII Kenley aerodrome complete with the remains of the air raid shelters and a memorial to those aircrews that didn't return. 

Rejoin the road for a couple of miles through Old Coulsdon, returning to Coulsdon South Station

Start and End Points 

Start/Finish: South Coulsdon 

Ride Details 

• Distance: 40 km | 24 miles
• Climb: 840 m | 2800 ft 
• Percentage off-road: 60%
• Trail surface: Natural | Gravel | Cycle Paths | Single Track
• Technical Grade: Red  - Challenging Climbs

Places to Visit 

22 miles:                Royal Airforce  Tribute - Kenley  

Places to Eat 

14 miles:                Numerous Cafe's and pubs in Oxted

Is this ride for me? 

Ideal for fitter riders with some off-road experience and reasonable fitness

Is my bike OK for this ride? 

The route is best completed on the gravel/CX bike or a mountain bike.