Walking in East Sussex offers a diverse range of landscapes to explore, from the stunning South Downs National Park to the picturesque coastline and historic towns and villages. With its rolling hills, expansive countryside, and charming seaside paths, East Sussex provides a wealth of opportunities for walkers of all levels to enjoy scenic views, rich wildlife, and fascinating heritage.
Popular Walks in East Sussex
1. Seven Sisters Country Park
- Length: Approximately 5 miles (circular)
- Start/End: Exceat Visitor Centre
- Highlights: This walk takes you along the iconic chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters, offering breathtaking views of the English Channel. The route includes a mix of coastal paths, riverbanks, and meadows, passing through beautiful countryside and offering the chance to see wildlife such as seabirds and butterflies.
2. Beachy Head and Birling Gap
- Length: About 3 miles (circular)
- Start/End: Beachy Head car park
- Highlights: This walk explores the dramatic chalk cliffs of Beachy Head, offering spectacular views along the coast. You’ll pass by the Belle Tout Lighthouse and the serene Birling Gap beach, with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the coastal scenery.
3. South Downs Way
- Specific Section: Alfriston to Eastbourne
- Length: Around 10 miles (one way)
- Highlights: This section of the South Downs Way takes you through quintessential South Downs landscapes, including rolling hills, expansive vistas, and picturesque villages like Alfriston. The route offers panoramic views over the Sussex countryside and the English Channel.
4. Cuckmere Haven and Friston Forest
- Length: Approximately 6 miles (circular)
- Start/End: Exceat Visitor Centre
- Highlights: This walk combines coastal scenery with woodland trails, taking you along the Cuckmere River and through Friston Forest. You’ll pass by the iconic meanders of the Cuckmere River and enjoy tranquil woodland paths teeming with wildlife.
5. Ashdown Forest
- Length: Various trails available, ranging from easy strolls to longer hikes
- Start/End: Various access points including car parks and villages
- Highlights: Explore the famous “Hundred Acre Wood” of A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh stories. Ashdown Forest offers a mix of heathland, woodland, and open spaces, with numerous walking trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
6. Pevensey Levels
- Length: Various routes available, depending on access points
- Start/End: Pevensey Castle or nearby villages
- Highlights: Discover the tranquil wetland landscapes of the Pevensey Levels, rich in birdlife and natural beauty. Explore footpaths and quiet lanes through marshes, reedbeds, and ancient waterways.
Tips for Walking in East Sussex
- Weather Preparedness: East Sussex weather can be changeable, so dress in layers and bring waterproof gear, especially when walking along the coast.
- Tide Times: If walking along the coastline, check tide times to avoid being cut off by the tide.
- Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended, especially for trails with uneven terrain or muddy sections.
- Navigation: Carry a map or use a GPS device, especially for more remote areas or longer walks.
- Local Amenities: Plan your walks to include stops in villages or towns where you can find facilities such as cafes, pubs, and toilets.
Walking in East Sussex offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich heritage of the region. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline, traversing the rolling hills of the South Downs, or wandering through ancient woodlands, East Sussex provides an unforgettable walking experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Walks from Alfriston
- Walks from Arlington
- Walks from Battle
- Walks from Birling Gap
- Walks from Brighton
- Walks from Ditchling
- Walks from East Dean
- Walks from Eastbourne
- Walks from Falmer
- Walks from Glynde
- Walks from Gotham
- Walks from Hurst Green
- Walks from Lewes
- Walks from Mile Oak
- Walks from Mill Hill
- Walks from Newbridge
- Walks from Sutton
- Walks from Wadhurst
- Walks from Westfield
Waymarked Trails
| Walking Trail | Distance |
|---|---|
| 1066 Country Walk | 50 km / 31 miles |
| 1066 Country Walk – Bexhill Link | 10 km / 6 miles |
| 1066 Country Walk – Hastings Link | 11 km / 7 miles |
| 1066 Country Walk – South Downs Link | 10 km / 6 miles |
| Cuckoo Trail | 23 km / 14 miles |
| England Coast Path – Ramsgate To Camber | 109 km / 68 miles |
| Forest Way (Sussex) | 16 km / 10 miles |
| Greenwich Meridian Trail | 439 km / 273 miles |
| High Weald Landscape Trail | 151 km / 94 miles |
| Monarch’s Way | 946 km / 588 miles |
| Royal Military Canal Path | 43 km / 27 miles |
| Saxon Shore Way | 262 km / 163 miles |
| South Downs National Trail – Jevington Alternative | 13 km / 8 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 |
| Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk | 44 km / 27 miles |
| Vanguard Way | 106 km / 66 miles |
| Wealdway | 134 km / 83 miles |
- Walks from Alfriston
- Walks from Arlington
- Walks from Battle
- Walks from Birling Gap
- Walks from Brighton
- Walks from Ditchling
- Walks from East Dean
- Walks from Eastbourne
- Walks from Falmer
- Walks from Glynde
- Walks from Gotham
- Walks from Hurst Green
- Walks from Lewes
- Walks from Mile Oak
- Walks from Mill Hill
- Walks from Newbridge
- Walks from Sutton
- Walks from Wadhurst
- Walks from Westfield