The South Downs National Park is one of the best in the country, and people will come from far and wide to enjoy all it has to offer.
From picturesque views to trickier hikes to test your resolve, there is something for everyone.
And with the weather improving, you may plan a trip to the South Downs.
If that is the case, here are 5 great walks you need to try there.
5 of the best walks in the South Downs National Park
Seaford to Eastbourne
While considered a harder route, this 21.7km point-to-point trail is adored by visitors to the South Downs.
It takes trekkers along the Seven Sisters, described by AllTrails as "one of Southern England’s most striking landscapes".
The route is "very popular for birding, hiking, and mountain biking", with the trail open all year round.
AllTrails says: "The best way to experience the Seven Sisters cliffs is by walking the coastal trail from Seaford to Eastbourne."
Arundel River Circular
This is an 11.4km circular trail, near the market town of Arundel, West Sussex.
It continues: "This river walk is a picturesque trail starting from the museum and heritage centre, with a couple of inclines and a good mix of walking through fields, forest, the banks of the River Arun, and the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust.
"The market town of Arundel is also a lovely place to explore."
Devil's Dyke and Poynings Circular
Despite this circular trail being a shorter one at just 4.3 km, it is still considered a moderately challenging route and takes about an hour-and-a-half to complete.
This trail near Hassocks, West Sussex gives hikers a chance to take in Devil’s Dyke, the South Downs Way and the small village of Poynings.
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AllTrails says this route offers "stunning panoramic views as you explore the longest, deepest and widest dry valley in the UK".
"Be sure to stop at the pub in Poynings or at the top of The Devil's Dyke for refreshments," it adds.
Hassocks to Lewes
Another longer walk, this 17.1-km point-to-point trail typically takes more than four hours to complete.
A very popular area for backpacking, hiking, and mountain biking, AllTrails says the best times to visit this trail are January through October.
It continues: "Starting in Hassocks, this is an exhilarating walk along the South Downs Way, a ridge of South Downs grassland with panoramic views inland and out to the sea by Brighton.
"After a hike up to the ridge itself, the walk moderates and is nothing but enjoyable, with slight up and down undulations until the town of Lewes."
Take a walk on the quieter side this Bank Holiday weekend.
— South Downs National Park (@sdnpa) April 29, 2025
With the coast heaving and car parks becoming full by mid-morning, opt for a more tranquil activity away from the crowds and busy roads. pic.twitter.com/t6P4KURvtf
Upperton Common and Petworth Park Circular
This 9.2-km circular trail near Petworth, West Sussex is open all year round.
AllTrails says: "This circular trail starts from the pub in Tillington and then heads west along Cemetery Lane and turns right across the street from the cemetery towards the vineyards.
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"Once past the vineyards, turn right and walk north towards Upperton Common. The route takes a short trip through the holly and beech trees before entering Petworth Park.
"There are a couple of steeper sections, and some of the trails can get a little muddy after rain, so it's best to come prepared with stout footwear.
"This walk can be a brilliant choice for dog walkers, although because you are likely to encounter deer and livestock, it's best to bring a lead."
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