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11.07.22
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OUR FAVOURITE WALKS IN SUSsEX
While jumping on a plane for your holidays is currently the equivalent of planning an expedition to the Antarctic, many of us are instead turning to local nature spots for a break. If you’re looking to get your head out of the city for a few hours, here are some of our favourite (and more unusual) walks all local and easily accessible from Brighton & Hove.
(Also, an honourable mention to Devil’s Dyke. We may not have included it in this list, but just jump on the 77 and you’ll be transported to some of the best views of the Downs for just the cost of a bus fare.)
The Undercliff Walk, Kemptown to Saltdean
Any Brightonian worth their sea salt has taken a stroll down the Undercliff walk on a sunny day. Accessible via the back of the Marina, this walk stretches all the way to Saltdean.
Set underneath the iconic chalk cliffs of the Sussex coast, you’ll be walking right alongside the open ocean.
The walk is completely flat, so is accessible and great for a bike ride. Stop off at the cafe halfway for a quick coffee and to take in the tidal views.
Stanmer Park Woodland
Having had a bit of a glow-up with the recently renovated One Garden, Stanmer Park has a lot to offer local residents.
Spend a day up there exploring the vast woodland, spotting wildlife and end it with some indulgence at One Kitchen.
Covering approximately 5000 acres, the terrain is a bit unpredictable so make sure to bring sturdy shoes! Plus, Stanmer Park is home to Pudding Bag Wood which is worth the visit for the name alone.
The Chattri Memorial
This beautiful memorial commemorates the Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I, and who spent time hospitalised in the Pavilion buildings. The Chattri memorial was constructed on the cremation site to honour the soldiers.
You can take a walk up to this peaceful site by heading through the back of Patcham and walking for around two kilometres.
The Chattri Down is a species-rich space and boasts beautiful views of both the city and the nature surrounding it
Tomb and Nature Trail – Lewes Road
It may not be your usual walking route, but the Victorian cemeteries off Lewes road can provide some much-needed peace in a very built-up area.
The 42 acres are carefully maintained to encourage the blossoming of the local wildlife in such an urban setting.
Walk through Brighton’s history in a way unlike anything else, taking a moment for yourself to be present and mindful. You can request a free walkers’ guide leaflet of the cemeteries here.
Monarch’s Way
If you fancy following in the footsteps of royalty, then you can join the trail that Charles II used to flee during the Civil War in the 1600’s.
Starting off in Somerset, the 615-mile journey meets West Sussex and ends at the port of Shoreham.
If you’re up for the journey, you can join the trail at Arundel and enjoy the beautiful West Sussex countryside and experience a bit of history.
Ditchling Beacon
Once the site of a warning beacon, this ancient location is just seven miles outside of Brighton.
The beacon itself is the highest point in East Sussex and offers panoramic views of the sea and South Downs.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk from the Beacon all the way to Devil’s Dyke. This is a journey not for the fainthearted, it’ll take you around four hours so prepare accordingly!
Sheepcote Valley
This local nature reserve sits just behind East Brighton Park. With over 220 acres to explore, it’s hard to believe that this beauty spot is just a few minutes walk out of Whitehawk.
The huge chalk hawk embedded into the ground watches over the valley, having been recently restored by volunteers.
If you time your trip right, you could even round off your walk by watching a Whitehawk FC game in East Brighton Park.
Cuckmere Valley
A short bus ride from Brighton takes you to Cuckmere Valley, where you can follow the meandering pathways of the Seven Sisters river.
Being a chalk grassland, the area is rich in wildlife and wildflowers cover the riverbanks. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a grazing cow or two on your walk.
The river meets its end at Seaford, and you’ll be rewarded with a quiet, beautiful beach.
Ouse Valley Viaduct
Having been originally built in 1863 as part of the London – Brighton rail line, this feat of structural engineering starkly contrasts the surrounding landscape.
Jump on a train to Balcombe, and begin a short two mile walk to the viaduct. The viaduct has become a bit of an Instagram destination so make sure to get some snaps while you’re there.
If you’re up for a bit more of a walk then you could wander on to the Ardingly Reservoir just four miles away.
KEEP EXPLORING
