Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the obligatory Boxing Day walk. What better way to create some balance over the festive period than to get outside for a bracing walk?
In East Sussex we are blessed to have some of the most picturesque scenery on our doorstep – from magical woods and open fields to beautiful beaches and stunning coastline.
We’ve pulled together some of our favourite spots for a Boxing Day stomp to help you embrace the great outdoors over the festive season.
Ashdown Forest, Forest Row
Head out and explore the vast heathland of the Ashdown Forest, which comprises the largest public open space in the south east.
Ashdown Forest is also the legendary Hundred Acre Wood in the much-loved children’s tales of Winnie the Pooh. Search out beloved spots such as Pooh Sticks Bridge, Roo’s Sandy Pit, the Heffalump Trap, and the Enchanted Place as you wander.
There are handy maps of different walks available on the Ashdown Forest website.
Seven Sisters Country Park, Exceat, near Seaford
The Easy Access Trail at Seven Sisters Country Park follows the valley floor down to the shingle beach and the mouth of the River Cuckmere. The walk is around 1.3 miles (2.6 miles return) and takes in spectacular views of the valley and Seaford Head.
The trail is suitable for people with impaired mobility, wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs and it’s great for walking or cycling.
Birling Gap to Belle Tout
Take a wander up from Birling Gap to Belle Tout lighthouse and back on this relaxing circular walk. Enjoy sweeping sea and downland views, as well as wonderful flora and the Beachy Head lighthouse.
The walk is dog friendly and takes about an hour.
Fun fact – Belle Tout was funded by Mad Jack Fuller, an eccentric and philanthropist, who also financed a collection of unusual monuments scattered across the landscape around Brightling, East Sussex.
Hastings Country Park, Hastings
Hastings Country Park is 342 hectares of ancient gill woodland, heathland, grassland and farmland together with five kilometres of dramatic sandstone cliffs and coastline.
The park is a scenic nature reserve with stunning coastal views found within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Beauty. Dogs are welcome but please pick up after your pooch and keep your dog under close control to minimise disturbance to wildlife.
Two walks, the Fairlight Head walk and the Firehills walk, are on paths with a hard surface and are suitable for buggies and wheelchairs.
Two further walks, Warren Glen and Fairlight Glen, can be muddy and have steep sections. These walks are not suitable for wheelchairs or buggies.
Alternatively, you can just head out and explore the landscape. Friends of Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve have some great maps and information if you’re unsure where to start.
The Cuckoo Trail, East Sussex
The 14-mile Cuckoo Trail runs through the East Sussex countryside and is a good route for walkers of all ages.
It is also a great route for cyclists and forms part of the National Cycle Network – route 21.
The picturesque trail follows the former ‘Cuckoo Line’ railway track and stretches from Heathfield to Shinewater Park in Eastbourne. It passes through Horam, Hellingly, Hailsham and Polegate.
Seaford Head, Seaford
Offering spectacular views over Cuckmere Haven and the Seven Sisters, there are three short routes for walkers to choose from at Seaford Head; two are fully accessible.
There are plenty of viewing points all the way round to capture those Christmas selfies and benches too, so you can crack open a flask of hot chocolate!
Seafront walks – Bexhill, Eastbourne, Hastings, Seaford
Nothing blows away those Christmas cobwebs more than a stroll along the prom on Boxing Day!
Many of the seafront towns in East Sussex have lovely, easily accessible promenades to wander along.
Wrap up warm and enjoy a blast of fresh, sea air.
Top tips
If you are heading out for a walk over the festive season, do remember to check the weather and dress appropriately.
Please pick up after your dog, and be aware that in some places dogs are required to be on a lead.
Finally, check car park opening and closing times as some places operate shorter hours in the winter months.
And if you need more inspiration, read our piece on Where to walk this autumn in East Sussex. Plus our accessible winter walks article provides lots more information on East Sussex walks that are fully accessible.
