Sussex: 8 Beautiful Walks Reachable by Train From Brighton or London.

Since having the van, I’ve taken every opportunity of flexible time to explore the UK and further afield. And therefore I have neglected Sussex a little on this blog in recent years. Monty and I tread the same old paths and routes we know near Brighton but a few weeks back I took a train out of town for our walk and it was delightful. Looking back on the blog, I realised I need to be my own reader and revisit some of the walks I’ve blogged over the years.

All of these walks are reachable quickly by train from Brighton but you can reach them from London too, just visit The Trainline and pop in your stations. I’ve detailed each station at the beginning of each walk. For those with stations for the return differing from the start station it will probably be more efficient to buy a return to the second station.

Lewes to Southease.

Station: Lewes to start, Southease to finish.

Duration of walk: approx 2.5 hours.

A tranquil walk along the snaking River Ouse. You’ll marvel at how Lewes seems to have moved on the landscape as you walk. You’re likely to see a number of seabirds (I also often a spot a kingfisher near the bridge) and you’ll love the little station at Southease. Trains are hourly so make sure you check timings and pick up/slow your pace if needed. That said, the YHA cafe at Southease is usually open if you miss a train and need to wait.

Arlington Reservoir.

Station: Berwick. Direct trains from both Brighton and London.

Duration of walk: approx 1 hour.

This 100 hectare nature reserve is surrounded by peaceful woodland and the area is the home to rich wildlife. You’ll take in view across the reservoir as well as walk through peaceful woodland and meadows. There is also a picnic area at the end if you want to buy a cuppa from the cafe and share a slice of cake.

Plumpton Circular.

Station: Plumpton (change at Lewes from Brighton, direct from London)

Duration of walk: approx 1.5 hours.

I really shouldn't shout too much about this walk as it’s always a go to when I need a break fro the city. But it is so beautiful I would be selfish of me not to share it. With little wooden bridges to cross, fields to navigate over (always stick to the footpaths), views of the Downs it makes for a good old English ramble. The walk starts from Plumpton Racecourse, next to the station. It’s about a 5 minute walk to the start point from the station through the main Plumpton Racecourse car park. Even my teenage niece loved it.

Lewes to Blackcap.

Station: Lewes

Duration of walk: approx 2 hours.

When I used to live in Lewes variations of this walk were our every day. I really miss being able to walk outside my front door and have it on my doorstep (soon to be rectified). You’ll get incredible views across the town and river Ouse on your return - this is a satisfying walk, getting the heart rate up in places but completely manageable for average fitness.

Lewes to Glynde.

Stations: Lewes to start, Glynde to return

Duration of walk: allow 3 hours.

An absolute corker of a walk with sunning views across the downs and a stop off at Mount Caburn and it’s magnificent 360 viewpoint. Will get the heart rate up and is a real Sunday walk. A must is to visit the antique shops in Lewes after and have a roast at one of the lovely pubs. I was shocked to find I hadn't blogged this walk so the link below is the opposite way round (I just think it makes so much more sense the other way!) and will remedy the lack of blog post in the coming weeks.

Seaford Head.

Station: Seaford (direct from Brighton, change at Lewes from London)

Duration of walk: approx 1.5 hours.

Sometimes you just need lung fulls of sea air from cliffs high up above the water. Seaford Head will be your remedy on days like this. My walk focuses on starting from the car park but you can come out of Seaford station and head straight to the beach, head down the promenade towards the cliffs and ascend to access this beautiful walk. Prepare for deep breaths but the view back will reward you a little more every step of the way.

Eastbourne Lighthouse.

Station: Eastbourne (start point approx 15 min walk)

Duration of walk: approx 2.5-3 hours but make a day of it

As a grand finale, this epic walk has to be timed right so pay attention to the full post. You feel like you’re in Cornwall once you’ve passed a certain point and are nearing the lighthouse. Once done, head to Port for some lovely lunch!

Stanmer Park.

I can’t forget one of Brighton best walking hubs - Stanmer Park. This estate is packed with different routes, magic corners and mystical copses. Walk into the woods and just get a bit lost for a bit, you know you’re going the wrong way when you hit a road.

Then stop at the brilliant OneGarden halfway round for food, plant shopping and coffee. It’s just delightful. There’s also the well loved cream tea cafe in Stanmer Village (by the church).

I love to see you out on these walks, please tag in @emmacroman and #tideupyourlife when you’re out and about on these recommendations.