Freshwater Bay to Afton Down
Category 43.2 km
Distance
130 m
Elevation Gain
4.1%
Average Gradient
12%
Max Gradient
The western end of the island is dominated by chalk downland, and the climb from Freshwater Bay onto Afton Down is the best access to this landscape. The road leaves the bay sharply — the first 500m at a sustained 10-12% represents the hardest ramp on this side of the island — before the gradient eases across the open down. The Military Road (A3055) runs along the southwest coast below, and combining the Afton Down ascent with a return leg along the Military Road creates one of the island's most scenic and enjoyable 40km loops. Exposed to south-westerly winds; approach from Freshwater Bay rather than Compton for the harder starting pitch.
Pro Tip
The Military Road below Afton Down is frequently cited as one of southern England's finest cycling roads — the A3055 hugs the chalk cliffs above the beach for over 12km with minimal traffic outside peak summer weekends. Pair the Afton Down climb with a run down the Military Road and a return through Shorwell village for a complete western island day.
Part of
Cycling in Isle of Wight