![Cover image](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/photos/united-kingdom/surrey-east-and-west-sussex/22004842200/hartfield-2.webp)
Darwin's Delight
A road cycling route starting from Shirley
A journey through the countryside, with a touch of history and natural beauty
Map
![Map miniature of "Darwin's Delight" cycling inspiration in Outer London — South, United Kingdom. Generated by Tarmacs.app cycling route planner](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/routemaps/600/united-kingdom/outer-london-south/shirley/road/66142.webp)
Embark on a cycling adventure through the scenic landscapes that inspired Charles Darwin. Starting near Shirley, this route will take you to his former home, Down House, where you can learn about his revolutionary theories. From there, you'll continue to Observation Point, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. As you pedal through Chiddingstone and Hartfield, soak in the idyllic countryside views. The route then takes you through Nutley and Ardingly, known for their charming villages and peaceful ambiance. Finally, you'll cycle through Horley, Redhill, and Purley, enjoying picturesque landscapes along the way. Don't miss Shirley Windmill, a local landmark.
road
116 km
1441 m
Tough
Route profile
Highlights on the route
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0 km
Start: Locality centerShirley: Shirley: Enjoyable cycling routes in a peaceful atmosphere.
Shirley, located in Outer London – South, United Kingdom, provides a relatively average environment for road and gravel cycling. The locality offers some pleasant routes and quiet roads for cyclists to explore. However, there are no famous or well-known cycling spots in the immediate vicinity of Shirley. The locality ranks at 2 for its cycling suitability.10 km
10 km
Home of Charles Darwin, Down HouseAttractionVisit Down House, the former home of Charles Darwin, and explore its exhibits.
25 km
25 km
Observation PointViewpointTake a moment to admire the stunning views from Observation Point.
30 km
30 km
ChiddingstoneHamletExplore the quintessential English charm of Chiddingstone village.
41 km
41 km
HartfieldVillageAdmire the scenic beauty of Hartfield and its picturesque surroundings.
53 km
53 km
NutleyVillageDiscover the tranquil village of Nutley and its charming atmosphere.
68 km
68 km
ArdinglyVillageExperience the serene beauty of Ardingly and its historic buildings.
87 km
87 km
HorleyTownCycle through Horley, known for its beautiful countryside and peaceful setting.
94 km
94 km
RedhillTownEnjoy the lush landscapes of Redhill and its surrounding areas.
108 km
108 km
PurleySub-urbVisit Purley and be captivated by its striking natural beauty.
116 km
116 km
Shirley WindmillAttractionDon't miss Shirley Windmill, an iconic landmark with a fascinating history.
116 km
116 km
Finish: Locality centerShirley: Shirley: Enjoyable cycling routes in a peaceful atmosphere.
Cycling routes from Shirley:
Orpington to Addington Circular Road Cycling Route Greenwich to Hayes Circular Gravel Cycling Route Croydon to Penge via Tower of London Road Cycling Route Purley to Croydon via Leith Hill Gravel Cycling Route Croydon to Wimbledon Gravel Cycling Route Bromley to Shoreham Darwin's Delight London Loop Adventure Shirley Gravel Adventure Darwin's Country Escape Historical Landmarks Expedition Surrey Hills Challenge Discovering Gravel Paths The Green Belt Adventure The Surrey Hills Loop The Gravel Adventure
Cycling routes nearby:
![Image of West Wickham](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/outer-london-south/west-wickham-5.webp)
![Image of South Norwood](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/outer-london-south/south-norwood-4.webp)
![Image of Croydon](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/outer-london-south/croydon-5.webp)
![Image of Beckenham](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/outer-london-south/beckenham-4.webp)
![Image of Shortlands](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/outer-london-south/shortlands-3.webp)
![Image of Hayes](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/outer-london-south/hayes-4.webp)
![Image of Sanderstead](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/outer-london-south/sanderstead-5.webp)
![Image of Crystal Palace](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/outer-london-south/crystal-palace-4.webp)