Best trails in South Downs National Park
The South Down National Park is one of the UK's newest national parks and is a popular destination year round. The national park covers the chalk hills of the South Downs (which on the English Channel coast form the white cliffs of the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head) and a substantial part of a separate physiographic region, the western Weald, with its heavily wooded sandstone and clay hills and vales. The South Downs Way spans the entire length of the park and is the only National Trail that lies wholly within a national park. The park also offers stunning views, walking and many opportunities for cycling.
Top trails
1
(2071)
•Hard
•13.5 mi
The Seven Sisters are a series of chalk cliffs stretching from Cuckmere Haven to Birling Gap. These brilliant white cliffs, topped with a carpet of green grass, and plunging into the cerulean sea along the English Channel are one of Southern England’s most striking landscapes. The best way to experience the Seven Sisters cliffs is by walking the coastal trail from Seaford to Eastbourne. The best place to start the 7 Sisters coastal trail is in Seaford as the views are more spectacular if you...
2
(2240)
•Moderate
•7.9 mi
•Est. 3.5–4 hr
Enjoy this scenic trail around Seven Sisters and Friston Forest, with a variety of walks, stunning views from the cliffs, a river, forest, farms and lovely hamlets around.
Perhaps the most iconic landmark in Sussex, the Seven Sisters is a series of chalk cliffs that abuts the English Channel between Seaford and Eastbourne.
There is a National Trust paid carpark at the start of the hike, with toilets and a cafe where you can stop along the way.
This is a varied route which remains...
3
(968)
•Moderate
•7.3 mi
•Est. 3–3.5 hr
This walk take you from Birling Gap along the chalky cliff tops of the Seven Sisters, then along the Cuckmere River to the Seven Sisters Visitor Centre. This moderately challenging walk between the South Downs and the sea offers wildlife, and beautiful sea views.
There are some challenging climbs, but you will be rewarded with drinks and snacks in the visitor centre at the turn-around point, and with some nice relaxing time on the beach at Birling Gap.
The trails here can get particularly...
4
(1320)
•Hard
•20.6 mi
This longer route takes in a great variety of sights and terrains as you follow seaside paths and riverside trails along the coast from Eastbourne to Seaford within the South Downs National Park.
Take care along the steeper sections of this trail, staying well back from the cliff edges. Remember to check tide times beforehand to ensure safety and access along the beach sections. Please take extra care along road sections and at road crossings on this trail. This route is best attempted in...
5
(1098)
•Moderate
•6.9 mi
•Est. 3–3.5 hr
This is a circular walk from the Beacon Hill National Nature Reserve on the South Downs, near Warnford in Hampshire. (NOTE: There are two Beacon Hills in Hampshire, this is the one near Warnford, not the one near Burghclere).
This peaceful circuit takes you through the rolling landscape of the Meon Valley, following quiet tracks and paths across chalk grassland and through beautiful sections of dense woodland. About two-thirds of the way round, the route leads you through the pretty village...
6
(793)
•Moderate
•7.1 mi
•Est. 3–3.5 hr
This river walk is a picturesque trail starting from the museum and heritage centre, with a couple of inclines and a good mix of walking through fields, forest, the banks of the River Arun, and the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust.
The market town of Arundel is also a lovely place to explore. Arundel Castle is a restored and remodelled medieval castle dating from the 11th century that was established by Roger de Montgomery on Christmas Day 1067. Roger became the first Earl of Arundel, a title...
7
(656)
•Moderate
•2.7 mi
•Est. 1.5–2 hr
This is a circular walk taking in Devil’s Dyke, the South Downs Way and the small village of Poynings. There are stunning panoramic views as you explore the longest, deepest and widest dry valley in the UK.
The paths are firm for the most part, but the sections through woodland can be very muddy after rain and in winter. The final stretch of path follows a narrow exposed ridge path with a steep drop to the side (not for the faint-hearted), so take particular care with children.
The walk...
8
(1013)
•Easy
•3.6 mi
•Est. 1–1.5 hr
Note: Sections of this trail can be prone to flooding. However, there are detours.
The Otter Trail was created by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and takes you along part of the Itchen Navigation Path and through Otterbourne Park Woods.
You will pass several old locks and enjoy long stretches of riverside paths as well as beautiful sections of woodland. There is a chance to see llamas along the way, as well as Hawksley Memorial Garden.
Start this trail from the roadside...
9
(481)
•Moderate
•6.5 mi
•Est. 3–3.5 hr
This is a circular walk from Arundel through Arundel Park to South Stoke and returning to Arundel along the River Arun.
At the halfway point of the trail, you'll pass the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust Arundel centre. Here, you're likely to see a wonderful variety of butterflies and bird life.
You will also pass Arundel Castle, originally built in 1068 the castle is open to the public and is well worth a visit.
Arundel also has a great variety of pubs, restaurants and places to stay.
The...
10
(372)
•Moderate
•9.3 mi
•Est. 4–4.5 hr
This is a scenic point to point route in South Downs National Park that follows the stunning coastline from Eastbourne to Exceat. Along the way, you will encounter Beachy Head Lighthouse and the Seven Sisters White Cliffs. There is a cafe along the route if you wish to stop for refreshments. Thre is little to no shade so make sure to pack sunscreen!
Showing results 1–10 of 1,059
Trail reviews for South Downs National Park
A lovely amble along easy paths through the villages in the South Downs national park close to Winchester.
Difficulty: Easy
Day 6 of our thru-hike of the South Downs Way! Very windy, and a bit rainy to start, but to be expected this time of year. Still managed to see some spectacular views, the sea and white cliffs in the distance. A few rolling hills, but nothing unmanageable. Nice little spot at the YHA for a coffee and slice of cake. Overall, a fantastic day on the trail!!
Conditions: Muddy, Well maintained
South Downs Way (Complete)
Day 5 walking the South Downs Way. Bit blustery, but plenty of blue skies and sunshine. LOTS of rolling hills!! Jumped on the bus to spend the night in Brighton, bus stop right on the trail. Brilliant day!!
South Downs Way: Upper Beeding to Southease
Our fourth day walking the South Downs Way. A little rainy to start, and very windy, but stunning views that were worth the climbs. Loved the section around Chanctonbury Hill.
Difficulty: Hard
South Downs Way: Amberley to Upper Beeding
Great trail with very well marked route at most times and beautiful landscapes, actually very varied throughout. It had rained the day before so the trail was a little bit muddy at times, proper footwear is recommended. Pack fuel and water as there will not be any area to refill on the trail itself. It rained for the last hour which wasn’t a problem for me, but be careful as the trail can be a bit slippery. Gorgeous views over the South Downs and beautiful cottages along the way. Some of the woodlands felt beautifully eerie as very quiet and no other humans around. I was very surprised to not see any other Walker/hiker on the trail. A few dog walkers at the very beginning and at the very end, and some fisherman along the lake the latter part of the trail, but other than that I was pretty much on my own throughout. Which is fine if you are confident, and it felt safe for me. Really a great trail altogether!
Parking: Free, Medium lot
Iping Common, Hammer Wood, Woolbeding Common, and Stedham
Fabulous second day on the South Downs Way. Managed to avoid the rain, but could alway see it in the distance!! Views were stunning. Little muddy underfoot, and a bit windy here and there, but overall a brilliant walk!
Difficulty: Hard
East Meon to Cocking
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Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to hike in South Downs National Park?
According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in South Downs National Park is Seaford to Eastbourne, which has a 4.8 star rating from 2,071 reviews. This trail is 13.5 mi long with an elevation gain of 1,761 ft.
What is the longest trail in South Downs National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in South Downs National Park is Old Way Complete. This trail is estimated to be 235.9 mi long.
How many trails are in South Downs National Park?
There are 1,059 trails in South Downs National Park. These trails have an average 4.4-star rating from 82,989 AllTrails community reviews.
Which trail has the most elevation gain in South Downs National Park?
If you're looking for elevation gain, South Downs National Park has you covered. Old Way Complete boasts the most elevation gain with 24,845 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Wessex 100 Circular Walk, which will get you 15,209 ft of elevation gain.
Are there camping trails available in South Downs National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 69 camping trails in South Downs National Park and the most popular is Seven Sisters and Friston Forest Circular with an average 4.8 star rating from 2,240 community reviews.
Are there running trails available in South Downs National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 898 running trails in South Downs National Park and the most popular is Seaford to Eastbourne with an average 4.8 star rating from 2,071 community reviews.
Are there biking trails available in South Downs National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 261 biking trails in South Downs National Park and the most popular is Seaford to Eastbourne with an average 4.8 star rating from 2,071 community reviews.
Are there any trails with scenic mountain peak views in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 588 trails with scenic mountain peak views in South Downs National Park, including Seaford to Eastbourne, Seven Sisters and Friston Forest Circular, Seven Sisters, Beacon Hill and Exton Circular, and Eastbourne to Exceat.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 11 trails with waterfalls in South Downs National Park, including Avington and Itchen Abbas Circular, Winchester and Itchen Abbas Circular, Itchen Abbas, Ovington and Abbotstone Circular, The Pilgrims’ Way Stage 1: Winchester to Arlesford, and Winchester, Itchen Abbas, and Hampage Wood Circular.
Are there any trails with archaeological sites in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 241 trails with archaeological sites in South Downs National Park, including Beacon Hill and Exton Circular, Devil's Dyke and Poynings Circular, Kingley Vale Devil Humps Circular, South Downs Way: Winchester to Exton, and Lewes and Ouse Valley Circular.
Are there any trails with ponds in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 158 trails with ponds in South Downs National Park, including Kingley Vale Devil Humps Circular, Hassocks to Lewes, Old Winchester Hill Circular, Devil's Dyke, Newtimber Hill, Poynings and Fulking Hill Circular, and Ditchling Beacon and Chattri Memorial Circular.
Are there any trails with rivers in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 156 trails with rivers in South Downs National Park, including Seaford to Eastbourne, Seven Sisters and Friston Forest Circular, Meonstoke, Exton and Mile End Lane Circular, Lewes and Ouse Valley Circular, and Seaford to East Dean.
Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 121 trails with scenic viewpoints in South Downs National Park, including Seaford to Eastbourne, Seven Sisters and Friston Forest Circular, Seven Sisters, Seven Sisters and Seaford, and Devil's Dyke and Poynings Circular.
Are there any trails with cliffs in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 60 trails with cliffs in South Downs National Park, including Seaford to Eastbourne, Seven Sisters and Friston Forest Circular, Seven Sisters, Seven Sisters and Seaford, and Eastbourne to Exceat.
Are there any trails with castles in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 76 trails with castles in South Downs National Park, including Arundel River Circular, Arundel Park via Hiorne Tower, South Stoke and Arundel Castle, Hassocks to Lewes, South Downs Way: Winchester to Exton, and Lewes and Ouse Valley Circular.
Are there any trails with huts in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 50 trails with huts in South Downs National Park, including Arundel and Arundel Castle Circular, Queen Elizabeth Country Park Circular, Arundel and Swanbourne Lake Circular, South Downs Way: Exton to Buriton, and Amberley and the River Arun Circular.
Are there any trails with historical ruins in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 88 trails with historical ruins in South Downs National Park, including Arundel River Circular, Arundel Park via Hiorne Tower, South Stoke and Arundel Castle, Devil's Dyke, Newtimber Hill, Poynings and Fulking Hill Circular, Arundel and Arundel Castle Circular, and Brighton to Lewes.
Are there any trails with lakes in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 11 trails with lakes in South Downs National Park, including Shoreham-by-Sea and the Downs Link Circular, Amberley to Shoreham-by-Sea, Newhaven, Piddinghoe and the Ouse Circular, Amberley to Shoreham, and Hampshire Millenium Pilgrim's Trail.
Are there any trails with springs in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 6 trails with springs in South Downs National Park, including Meon Valley Circular Pub Walk, Hyden Hill and Salt Hill Circular, East Meon, Salt Hill, and Hyden Hill Circular, Cheriton and Kilmeston Circular, and Bishop's Waltham, Runnydown Copse, and The Moors Circular.
Are there any trails with historical monuments in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 69 trails with historical monuments in South Downs National Park, including Seaford to Eastbourne, Seven Sisters and Seaford, Eastbourne to Exceat, Winchester Cathedral and St. Catherine Hill Circular, and Itchen River Walk: Southampton to Winchester.
Are there any trails with beaches in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 37 trails with beaches in South Downs National Park, including Seaford to Eastbourne, Seven Sisters and Seaford, Seaford to East Dean, The Slater Trail Circular, and Undercliff Walk.
Are there any trails with picnic areas in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 5 trails with picnic areas in South Downs National Park, including Alice Holt Forest Circular, Alice Holt Forest Family Cycle Route, Alice Holt Lodge Pond Walk, Dial Post and Chantonbury Circular, and Pulborough, Ashurst and Storrington Circular.
Are there any trails with forts in South Downs National Park?
Yes, there are 13 trails with forts in South Downs National Park, including Meonstoke, Exton and Mile End Lane Circular, Old Winchester Hill Circular, South Downs Way: Exton to Buriton, Meon Valley and Old Winchester Hill Circular, and Butser Hill, Old Winchester Hill Circular.