Sussex has some of the most picturesque landscapes in the UK and with them being so accessible from Brighton, here is my list of the best places to go for a fresh air walk, no matter which way you head out of the city… obviously not south unless you enjoy walking on water
HEAD NORTH TO DEVIL’S DYKE
On the outskirts of Brighton, just over the A27, is Devils’ Dyke, easily accessible by bus number 77 from Churchill Square or take the open top bus which includes the Dyke as one of its ‘hop on, hop off’ locations. One of the National Trust locations, the Dyke is listed as a ‘legendary beauty spot on the South Downs’ and they couldn’t be more spot on. With amazing views from the top of the Dyke, overlooking the sprawling city of Brighton & Hove, and across to the North the Downs, this open expanse offers a great range of trails for both walkers and bikers. With a tasty offering at the pub on the peak, and plenty of summer activities including hang gliding and orbing, this is a true delight to visit and so close to the heart of the city.
HEAD EAST ALONG TO THE CUCKMERE VALLEY
At low level, the Cuckmere Valley and Birling Gap, encompassing the Alfriston Forest, is a great day out for all the family. Whether you choose to take a walk following the meandering river ooze straight to its mouth, or head inland and walk or bike below the canopy of the forest, or why not head over the cliff tops of the Seven Sisters, this location has all options within a stone’s throw from each other, and with plenty of buses heading along the coast from Brighton, it is easily accessible to all. With the Cuckmere Inn nestled right in the heart, a great stop on your walk for a bevy or a light snack, with an outside terrace overlooking the river, this really is the place to enjoy the great outdoors.
HEAD WEST FOR A GREAT COASTAL WALK
We are on the Coast, so it’s not all about countryside – there are some amazing walks along the coast, for those wanting to walk a little further than the bright lights and entertainments of Brighton & Hove seafront. If you head out of town along the coastal road towards Chichester, you’ll find East Head and Ellanore Circular Walk. This walk takes in the quaint villages of East Head and West Witterings, as well as Chichester Harbour, and boasts ‘pretty coastal paths, leafy lanes’ and plenty of cafes or pubs along the way, so always a bonus.
WHY NOT STAY LOCAL?
You don’t have to head far out of town to enjoy a casual stroll among the flora and fauna. Despite being a 24/7 city, there are a great range of parks (both large and small) to get your exercise in the fresh air. Just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel is Queens Park, boasting a large green area, dog walking, children’s playground and pond. Or head out along London Road and visit Preston Park or Withdean Park, both deceptively large, heading up hill into the mini-forest environment, great for kids to explore.
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