Home > Biking

The South Downs Way: Retracing a Champion Cyclist’s Historic Tracks

Support us! GearJunkie may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn More

A year ago, four adventure-seeking riders took on the historic South Downs Way Trail. This film tells their story.

If you want bikepacking inspiration, look no further. Watch these riders take on the South Downs Way, one of the first that the U.K. established as a national trail.

Some of its routes date back over 8,000 years. Today, cyclists frequent the trail. One example: U.K. cycling legend Sean Yates used to train there. In this film, his son and three other riders retrace the route in his honor.

“We are releasing this short film now as a reflection on past adventures and an inspiration for adventures to come,” wrote the team.

The full route of the South Downs runs 100 miles from Winchester (England’s first capital) to the seaside at Eastbourne. The route consists of dirt and chalk trails and roads, with 3,500 m of elevation gain along the way.

The footage is serene and intense, fast-paced yet slow-motion — exactly how it feels to ride. This film was shot by George Marshall and produced by Wahoo Fitness. Riders featured are Liam Yates, Sophie Edmonson, Anna Mcleod, and Neil Phillips.

fixed gear skid stop

A Terrible Idea: 'Everest' on a Fixed-Gear Bicycle (With No Brakes)

Denver-area bike courier Charli Mandel set out to ascend 29,029 feet without gears or brakes, something that had never been documented. Read more…

Subscribe Now

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!

Join Our GearJunkie Newsletter

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!