Walks in Sussex – 5 Walks for Summer in Sussex

Sussex is a beautiful part of the world. Walks in Sussex are known throughout the country – and this area, along with Kent, is often described as one of the most varied landscapes in the UK. In this blog post, we reflect on the good weather we’ve recently been having and look at 5 of the best walks in Sussex.

Glyndebourne – The Glyndebourne Route to Lewes Downs

As a majestic country estate on the edge of the South Downs National Park, Glyndebourne occupies a fantastic spot, and is a great place to base a walk around this stunning area of countryside.

Starting on Week Lane, off New Road outside Glyndebourne, follow the path towards Lewes, Bible Bottom and the Lewes National Park at Mount Caburn.

For more information, visit this guide on the Financial Times website.

Forest Way Country Park

Situated right at the heart of East Sussex, the Forest Way Country Park walk runs from East Grinstead and Groombridge, and covers some of the best bits of countryside this part of Sussex offers. The Forest Way actually runs on an old railway line, so it is perfect for a flat walk or for cyclists looking to stretch their legs in the countryside.

It’s almost 10 miles long, and lies within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are circular trails to benefit any level of walker, but each have a fantastic array of natural flora and fauna.

More information on this and other walks in Sussex – Forest Way – download walking guide

Ashdown Forest

An area of ancient open heathland sitting on top of the High Weald AONB, this walk crosses some of the country’s most ancient countryside and is one of the best walks in Sussex.

The shortcut at Withyham cuts short the route by 2 miles. There is also the option of extending the route slightly at the Boarshead Loop to visit the ancient 17^th century Inn.  Visit the Boars Head Inn website for more information.

Fancy Free Walks Map

Ashdown Forest was originally a deer hunting forest in Norman times. For more information, visit the website: http://www.ashdownforest.org/

Wilmington’s Long Man

This fantastic 6-mile walk visits the famous Wilmington Long Man – a chalk figure that has left geologists, archaeologists and historians alike confused as to its existence for many years.

The area was given to the Sussex Archaeological trust in 1925, who covered it up during the Second World War so it couldn’t be used as a landmark. Full restoration was finished in the late 1960s, and with dramatic views along the Cuckmere Valley and the surrounding countryside, it’s well worth a visit. If you’re looking for excellent walks in Sussex.

Photo: http://www.bbmexplorer.com/

Birling Gap & The Seven Sisters

Part of the famous Seven Sisters Chalk Cliffs, spectacular views of the sea can be seen throughout this walk, which takes you across some of the spectacularly undeveloped countryside that borders the cliffs.

The Birling Gap provides the area’s main facilities – in fact, it’s about as built up as it gets along these cliffs.

The National Trust runs the area. For more information, advice on what to do in the area and downloadable maps, visit their site.

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/