Top 10 Walks In Sussex

Written by Paul Gent in Places to WalkLast Updated January 30, 2025

top 10 walks in sussex
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Sussex, a historic county located in the southeast of England, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and charming coastal scenery. The county is divided into two regions: East Sussex and West Sussex, both offering unique walking experiences.

From the dramatic white cliffs of the South Downs to the peaceful woodlands of the High Weald, Sussex is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers alike. The South Downs National Park, stretching from the chalky cliffs of Beachy Head to the rolling hills of Hampshire, provides a backdrop of stunning views and serene countryside paths.

Sussex’s landscapes are not just beautiful; they are steeped in history, with ancient castles, medieval villages, and coastal landmarks. The county is famous for its iconic sites, such as the Seven Sisters cliffs, Arundel Castle, and the picturesque villages of the Weald.

Whether walking through the peaceful heathlands of Ashdown Forest, exploring the South Downs or enjoying coastal routes with sweeping views of the English Channel, Sussex offers a rich tapestry of walking opportunities that blend natural beauty with historical intrigue. Perfect for both seasoned hikers and casual walkers, Sussex is a top destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

The Top 10 Walks In Sussex

1. The South Downs Way – Winchester to Eastbourne

  • Start/End Point: Winchester to Eastbourne
  • Distance: 100 miles (160 km)
  • Terrain: Rolling hills, chalk paths
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Notable Landmark: Beachy Head

This world-renowned trail takes you across the stunning South Downs, offering panoramic views, chalk cliffs, and picturesque villages, with a dramatic finish at Beachy Head.

2. Arundel to Amberley via the River Arun

  • Start/End Point: Arundel to Amberley
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Riverside paths, fields
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Arundel Castle

A relaxing walk along the River Arun, passing by the historic Arundel Castle and through meadows with views of the surrounding countryside.

3. Seven Sisters Country Park

  • Start/End Point: Seven Sisters Car Park
  • Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal cliffs, grassland
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Seven Sisters Cliffs

This stunning coastal walk follows the famous Seven Sisters cliffs, offering spectacular views of the English Channel and the surrounding countryside.

4. Devil’s Dyke Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Devil’s Dyke Car Park
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Rolling hills, chalk paths
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Devil’s Dyke

A beautiful walk through the South Downs, offering incredible views of the Dyke Valley and the surrounding hills, popular with both walkers and paragliders.

5. Wakehurst Place

  • Start/End Point: Wakehurst Place Visitor Centre
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Woodland, gardens
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Wakehurst Place

A lovely walk through the stunning grounds of Wakehurst Place, exploring the gardens and woodlands of this National Trust property.

6. The Cuckoo Trail

  • Start/End Point: Heathfield to Polegate
  • Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km)
  • Terrain: Flat, disused railway line
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Horam Station

This former railway track now provides a peaceful trail through Sussex’s countryside, ideal for an easy, family-friendly walk.

7. Bodiam Castle Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Bodiam Castle Car Park
  • Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
  • Terrain: Fields, wooded paths
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Bodiam Castle

A short circular walk around the magnificent Bodiam Castle, offering views of this medieval fortress and the surrounding countryside.

8. Beachy Head and Birling Gap Circular

  • Start/End Point: Birling Gap
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal cliffs, grassland
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Beachy Head Lighthouse

This coastal walk provides stunning views of Beachy Head and the white cliffs, with the added highlight of the iconic lighthouse.

9. Ashdown Forest Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Ashdown Forest Visitor Centre
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Woodland, heathland
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Pooh Bridge

Explore the woodland and heathland of Ashdown Forest, made famous by A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh stories, including a visit to the picturesque Pooh Bridge.

10. High Weald Landscape Walk

  • Start/End Point: Tunbridge Wells
  • Distance: 8 miles (12.8 km)
  • Terrain: Woodlands, fields
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

A walk through the beautiful High Weald, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, passing through forests, hills, and tranquil villages.

Summary – Top 10 Walks In Sussex

We hope you enjoy this list of walks and look forward to trying some of them out on your next visit to Sussex. Why not take a look at other counties too when planning other trips.

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