Walking in West Sussex offers a delightful mix of coastal beauty, verdant countryside, and historic landscapes. The region is known for its scenic coastal paths, expansive parks, and the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park. Whether you’re a seasoned walker looking for challenging hikes or someone seeking leisurely strolls through picturesque settings, West Sussex has a wealth of trails and routes to explore.
Popular Walks in West Sussex
1. Arundel to Amberley
- Length: About 7 miles (one way)
- Start/End: Arundel Castle to Amberley Station
- Highlights: This route takes you along part of the River Arun and through the stunning Arun Valley, offering beautiful views of Arundel Castle. The path leads you through verdant meadows and the wildlife-rich reed beds of the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust at Arundel.
2. Chichester Harbour Circular Walks
- Length: Various, with options ranging from 3 to 9 miles
- Start/End: Various points around Chichester Harbour
- Highlights: These walks offer a combination of coastal paths and countryside, featuring expansive views of Chichester Harbour, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The paths meander through quaint villages, salt marshes, and alongside yachts and boats.
3. South Downs Way
- Specific Section: Cocking to Amberley
- Length: About 12 miles (one way)
- Highlights: This section of the South Downs Way is known for its dramatic landscapes and stunning views across the downs. The trail takes you over undulating hills and through ancient woodlands, with notable climbs that reward walkers with panoramic vistas.
4. Petworth Park and Town Walk
- Length: Approximately 6 miles (circular)
- Start/End: Petworth House and Park
- Highlights: Explore the historic market town of Petworth and its beautiful park, designed by Capability Brown. The park is famous for its fallow deer and impressive ancient trees, and Petworth House hosts a rich collection of art.
5. Selsey Bill
- Length: About 4 miles (circular)
- Start/End: Selsey Town
- Highlights: This coastal walk offers a gentle stroll around the Selsey peninsula. It’s excellent for bird watching and enjoying peaceful beach views, with a chance to spot the Isle of Wight on clear days.
6. Highdown Hill
- Length: Around 3 miles (circular)
- Start/End: Highdown Gardens
- Highlights: Highdown Hill provides magnificent views of the surrounding countryside and the coastline. The area is also notable for its beautiful chalk gardens, which are especially vibrant during the spring and summer months.
Tips for Walking in West Sussex
- Check the Weather: Coastal walks can be exposed to strong winds and rain, while inland trails may become quite hot and sun-exposed in summer months. Dress appropriately for the weather, and always carry waterproofs just in case.
- Tides and Safety: If your walk involves coastal paths, particularly around Chichester Harbour or Selsey Bill, be aware of the tide times to avoid being caught out.
- Footwear: Good quality walking boots or shoes are recommended, especially for longer walks that traverse uneven terrain.
- Navigation: Bring a map and compass, or use a GPS device for navigating trails, particularly in less populated areas or on longer routes.
- Local Amenities: Plan for refreshments or rest stops along your route. Many villages in West Sussex offer charming pubs and cafes where you can enjoy local cuisine.
Walking in West Sussex is a rewarding experience that combines the tranquility of the countryside with the refreshing beauty of the coast. Whether you’re after leisurely nature walks, historical explorations, or vigorous hikes, the region’s diverse landscapes offer something for every walker.
Top places in West Sussex
- Walks around Bosham
- Walks from Amberley
- Walks from Angmering
- Walks from Arundel
- Walks from Atherington
- Walks from Boxgrove
- Walks from Bramber
- Walks from Burpham
- Walks from Chichester
- Walks from Chidham
- Walks from Climping
- Walks from Compton
- Walks from Crawley Down
- Walks from Donnington
- Walks from Eartham
- Walks from East Dean
- Walks from Felbridge
- Walks from Ferring
- Walks from Fishbourne
- Walks from Ford
- Walks from Halnaker
- Walks from Haywards Heath
- Walks from Henfield
- Walks from Henley
- Walks from Hermitage
- Walks from Hill Brow
- Walks from Ifield
- Walks from Lindfield
- Walks from Little Haven
- Walks from Midhurst
- Walks from Nutbourne
- Walks from Patching
- Walks from Petworth
- Walks from Prinsted
- Walks from Rogate
- Walks from Rusper
- Walks from Shipley
- Walks from Slindon
- Walks from Sompting
- Walks from South Harting
- Walks from Sutton
- Walks from Thakeham
- Walks from Thorney Island
- Walks from Warninglid
- Walks from West Chiltington
- Walks from West Lavington
- Walks from Wiggonholt
- Walks from Wisborough Green
Best Trails in West Sussex
Best Waymarked Ways
| Walking Trail | Distance |
|---|---|
| Downs Link | 58 km / 36 miles |
| Greenwich Meridian Trail | 439 km / 273 miles |
| High Weald Landscape Trail | 151 km / 94 miles |
| Monarch’s Way | 946 km / 588 miles |
| New Lipchis Way | 61 km / 38 miles |
| Serpent Trail | 103 km / 64 miles |
| South Downs Way National Trail | 163 km / 101 miles |
| Sussex Border Path | 220 km / 137 miles |
| Sussex Diamond Way | 97 km / 60 miles |
| Sussex Hospices Trail | 315 km / 196 miles |
| Sussex Ouse Valley Way | 68 km / 42 miles |
| Tandridge Border Path | 87 km / 54 miles |
| West Sussex Literary Trail | 89 km / 55 miles |
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