When’s the last time you went for a good walk? Not a walk-to-the-shops but a walking-boots-and-flask-of-tea kind of walk. The kind of walk where you feel like you’re embarking on an adventure.
Lucky for us, we are spoilt for choices of places to walk in East Sussex with over 2,000 miles worth of beautiful public paths to explore. That’s about the same length as the county’s road network. This is cared for and maintained by the Rights of Way and Countryside team who do everything from managing our network of Rights of Way, to clearing paths, to maintaining bridges to replacing stiles with more gates. They also manage our nine countryside sites which cover 450 hectares across East Sussex.
Why walk?
Besides being enjoyable, walking also has many wellbeing benefits. Last year, we wrote about how walking can support our mental health and help us feel happier. It is also a great and affordable activity to do with friends and family. Not sure who to walk with? Why not join a walking group in East Sussex. It can be a good way to meet new people, make new friends, discover new trails and help manage feelings of loneliness.
Where to walk
Unsure where to start? Recently, the Rights of Way team have been especially hard at work to improve access on certain walks ahead of the autumn and winter to ensure as many people can enjoy them as possible. So, if you are looking for a walk that is a little less muddy and easier to explore, here are our top suggestions to get you out and walking all year round. Friendly reminder: whichever route you take, always make sure you wear suitable shoes for walking in the countryside, especially when it’s been raining or is icy.
The Cuckoo Trail
The Cuckoo Trail runs along a disused railway line from Polegate to Heathfield and covers about 11 miles. Along the way you’ll see carved benches from trees felled in the 1987 storm, sculptures and old Victoriana railway-heritage features such as the bridges. It’s also a green corridor for wildlife.
Fun fact: the Cuckoo Trail gets its name from the local tradition of hearing the first cuckoo of spring at the annual Heathfield Fair.
Forest Way Country Park
The Forest Way Country Park is a 10-mile trail that traces the path of a former railway line between East Grinstead and Groombridge. This route is well loved and used for walking, cycling and even horse riding. There are seats and picnic benches along the entire route if you fancy a rest or somewhere to enjoy that flask of tea. Much like the Cuckoo Trail, there are old railway features along the route to transport you in time and add to that feeling of adventure.
King Charles III England Coast Path (South East)
The King Charles III England Coast Path follows a coastal route that runs through East Sussex, from Hampshire to Kent. On route you’ll experience iconic chalk cliffs, shingle beaches, promenades and estuaries. You’ll also get to see many East Sussex landmarks and locations such as the Seven Sisters, Seaford, Hastings and Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.
Report problems to Rights of Way
If you notice a problem, please report it to the Rights of Way team via the interactive map, by phone or by email. The Rights of Way team protect and maintain the footpaths, bridleways and byways throughout East Sussex. This includes the 3,600 bridges, 7,000 gates, 5,000 stiles, 1,500 sets of steps and 12,000 signs and waymarkers. So if you see something that isn’t right or needs sorting, make sure to let them know!
