Brading Down
Category 44.1 km
Distance
155 m
Elevation Gain
3.8%
Average Gradient
9%
Max Gradient
Brading Down runs along a chalk ridge on the island's eastern flank and is accessible from multiple approach roads, the most satisfying being the ascent from Brading town (population: small, café: yes) via Yarbridge. The climb builds gradually from the valley floor before steepening across the open downland with the gradient touching 9% on the upper section. The ridge road itself is a rewarding run at altitude — exposed to Channel winds from the south, quiet on weekdays, and offering views across Bembridge Harbour and out to the Solent. The descent north towards Ryde via Nunwell is one of the island's finest.
Pro Tip
Ride Brading Down as part of the island's eastern circuit: Newport — Arreton — Brading — Bembridge — Sandown — Shanklin, a 60km loop with 900m of cumulative climbing that samples most of the eastern island's terrain. The Brading Roman Villa at the base is a useful café and water stop.
Part of
Cycling in Isle of Wight