4 Commons GPX Route

Ride Level: Red - Challenging 

Gravel/CX MTB | GPX Route | Traffic-free | Natural, Gravel and Single Track | 48 km/30 miles | 3 to 4 hours 

A blast of a route that crosses the least known commons of South London, it has some long unbroken sections of fast gravel riding with some long descents and climbs up and over the downs.

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

Ride Description

The route starts at Mitcham Eastfields station and heads out across Mitcham Common towards Carshalton through the Beddington Reserve.  Riding through Carshalton Park keep an eye out for the Grotto and its canal.

Continuously climbing the route soon reaches Coulsdon and drops down to cross the Old Brighton Rd.   Follow the road across a roundabout and take care there’s a nasty uphill right-hand turn onto Farthing Downs. The route follows the bottom of the valley before climbing to reach Coulsdon Common.

Take the hills at speed to reach Kenley Common and the WW2 airfield where the air raid shelters are still very prominent and take a minute to look at the impressive War memorial. When not in use by the RAF you can ride on the real runways!

There’s a fast descent into the Whyteleafe Valley followed by a long old grind to the top of Riddlesdown Common.

The route follows bridleways across to the last common at Farleigh before skirting Croydon en route back to Mitcham Eastfields.

Start and End Points 

Start/Finish: Mitcham Eastfields

Ride Details 

• Distance: 48 km | 30 miles
• Climb: 610 m | 2000 ft 
• Percentage off-road: 80%
• Trail surface: Natural | Gravel | Cycle Paths | Single Track
• Technical Grade: Red  - Challenging in places

Places to Visit 

13 miles:                Royal Airforce  Tribute - Kenley  

Places to Eat 

12 miles:                The Fox - Coulsdon Common 

Is this ride for me? 

Ideal for 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.