Living in Brighton has many perks, not just having the beach in our backyard, but also the proximity to the beautiful Sussex countryside with its many wonderful walks, villages, and of course the many country pubs. Over the years, we’ve spent many a weekend with our muddy feet on the ground, putting in the miles, and taking in the views. Whether you’re heading out for a couple of hours or filling up a Sunday, these are the walks we’ve come back to again and again.
I’ve split them between East and West Sussex, and added a few useful details – how far they are from Brighton, how long they take, and what kind of effort you’re in for. There are also some family-friendly ones in the mix, because we know what a difference it makes to little legs! Happy walking!
East Sussex Walks
Seaford to Cuckmere Haven
- Distance: 6.5 km (4 miles)
- Time: 2–2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- From Brighton: 45 mins by car
This one’s a favourite for coastal views. You start in Seaford and walk along the cliffs to Cuckmere Haven. It’s not a loop, so you’ll either need to double back or arrange a pickup. There are a few hilly bits, but it’s manageable, and the views over the Seven Sisters are hard to beat. It can get windy, so layers help. Great with older kids who enjoy a proper walk.
Where to eat:The Cuckmere Inn (Exceat) sits right by the Seven Sisters Country Park, cosy inside with outdoor seating by the river. Great for fish and chips and a pint after a breezy cliff walk.
Friston Forest Short Loop
- Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
- Time: Around 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- From Brighton: 50 mins
A good one for younger kids or anyone after a gentle walk. The paths are wide and flat in most places, and there’s a nice mix of open spaces and shaded bits. You’ll often find an ice cream van near the car park at the weekends. If it’s been raining, it gets muddy fast, so wellies or old trainers are a good idea.
Where to eat: The Tiger Inn (East Dean) is a traditional village pub just a few minutes from the forest. Nice garden, good pub food, and usually a few walkers or cyclists around.
Gills Lap – Winnie-the-Pooh Walk
- Distance: 3 km (2 miles)
- Time: About an hour
- Difficulty: Easy
- From Brighton: 1 hour
This one’s in Ashdown Forest, and it’s great if you’ve got younger kids. You follow a simple loop from Gills Lap with views across the forest and a stop at Poohsticks Bridge. There’s enough space to roam but not so much that it gets tiring. Bring snacks – there’s not much nearby unless you drive into Hartfield.
Where to eat: Gills Lap / Pooh Walk
The Hatch Inn (Coleman’s Hatch) is a proper country pub with a roaring fire in winter and a decent Sunday roast. Book ahead if you’re going at lunchtime.
Lewes to Brighton (via the South Downs Way)
- Distance: 18 km (11 miles)
- Time: 4.5–5.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate–Hard
- From Brighton: Train to Lewes, return walk
This is a proper day out. You start in Lewes and follow the South Downs Way west, through open downland and along the ridge, with wide views most of the way. There are a few decent hills and not much shelter, so pick a day with decent weather. You end in Brighton, which always feels like a good reward. Take water and snacks – there aren’t any stops once you’re up on the Downs.
Where to eat:
Lewes: The Rights of Man – Start your walk with a coffee or end it here if you reverse the route. Friendly, modern pub with lots of local ales.
Brighton: The Howard is tucked-away in the colourful neighbourhood of Hanover, is lauded for some of the best roasts in Brighton – the perfect finish for your walk.
West Sussex Walks
Devil’s Dyke Circular
- Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Time: 2–2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- From Brighton: 20 mins
Super close to Brighton, this is often a last-minute choice for us. The route loops from Devil’s Dyke along the South Downs Way and back through Poynings. There are some steady ups and downs, but nothing too tough. The views are wide open, and there’s a pub at the start and end, which is always a plus.
Where to eat: The Shepherd and Dog in Fulking is a wonderful pub, with great food, and a beautiful outside area, including a playground and a small stream – book well in advance.
Kingley Vale Yew Forest Walk
- Distance: 4.8 km (3 miles)
- Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- From Brighton: Just over an hour
One of the more unusual walks, thanks to the ancient yew trees that feel a bit otherworldly. There’s a steep bit near the start but it evens out, and the rest is a mix of woodland and open hillside. You’ll get a great view at the top on a clear day. Probably best for older kids or those happy to go uphill without too much fuss.
Where to eat: The Horse & Groom (East Ashling) is a classic country pub with good food and a laid-back feel. Ideal for lunch after the walk, and they do a great seasonal menu.
Arundel Park & South Stoke Loop
- Distance: 9.5 km (6 miles)
- Time: Around 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- From Brighton: 50 mins
If you want a longer walk without anything too steep, this loop’s a good one. It starts near Arundel and follows a quiet route through the park and along the River Arun. You pass through open fields, bits of woodland, and quiet villages. It’s a bit of a mix, so you don’t get bored. A good option for families with older kids who don’t mind a longer stretch.
Where to eat: The Black Rabbit (Arundel) sits right on the River Arun with a huge beer garden. Good range of food, very family friendly, and lovely in summer especially.
Jack and Jill Windmills Circular
- Distance: 5.5 km (3.5 miles)
- Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
- From Brighton: 25 mins
A lovely loop starting from the Jack and Jill windmills in Clayton. The route takes you over part of the South Downs Way with wide views across the Weald. There are a couple of short climbs but nothing too demanding, and a promise of a few swings along the way which is always a bonus. Good for kids who can manage a little uphill. You can spot the windmills from miles away, which always gives the walk a nice landmark feel.
Where to eat: The Plough at Pyecombe is a short walk from the windmills. Unfussy and welcoming, with hearty food and good views if you sit outside.
A Few Extras
For a peaceful one: Kingley Vale’s a bit quieter than most.
For little legs: Gills Lap or Friston Forest are easy wins.
For big views: Seaford to Cuckmere or Devil’s Dyke.
