South Downs Way Double

Cycle 200 miles, climb 22,000ft and open 200 gates in under 24 hours

For thousands of years, people have been crossing the South Downs using nothing but the power of their own two legs and in all that time, every traveller has been looking for the easiest route: what’s the quickest way over the next hill – around it, over it, or across its flanks? Eventually, out of all those small, individual decisions a trail emerged, worn into the chalk over countless journeys.

The end result of all those collective decisions and knowledge is the South Downs Way.

Of course, of all those people over all those years, someone’s got to have made the quickest journey, there-and-back. Nowadays, that’s going to be someone riding a bike.

200 miles (there and back). 24 hours to do it in. It’s that simple.

Congratulations to Mark Edwards

Congratulations to Mark Edwards

Now for something completely different. Although not a double attempt (yet), I thought Mark’s efforts were worthy of mention. South Downs Way single effort on a BMX Bike! Yes that’s right. Mark joined the annual Trailbreak South Downs Century sportive this year for an...

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Congratulations to Ollie Beresford

Congratulations to Ollie Beresford

Ollie Beresford - 16h 45m 12s on the 29th of July 2023. Ollie hailing from Winchester thought it would be rude not to have a crack at the Double, and smashed out a great time! Check out Ollies Strava ride In Ollies words I’ve decided to keep this one short and sweet....

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Congratulations to Connor Murphy and Luke Kennard

Congratulations to Connor Murphy and Luke Kennard

Connor Murphy and Luke Kennard - 23h 4m 11s on the 24th of June 2023. Long term ambition for Connor and Luke finally comes to fruition! Check out Connor and Luke's Strava ride In their own words Short summary for those not wanting to read on. The South Downs Way (SDW)...

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Current record holder
Ian Leitch

15 hours 35 minutes

Hall of Fame

All ride times and records for the South Downs Way Double.

The route

Maps, Distances, Timing, GPS data and water sources.

Trying the Double

Advice and tips on your preperation for the double.

THINKING OF TRYING THE DOUBLE

Advice and tips on your preperation for the double.