There’s something rather special about a stay in Sussex. Big skies, rolling hills, friendly locals, good pubs (we know one), and walking routes that start with birdsong-and-bright-skies and end with a pint.
If you’re planning a countryside escape and looking for the perfect base for walking in Sussex, here are five of our favourite local walks – all within easy reach of your room here at The Bull.
Boots ready? Off we go.
Just up the road from us lies one of the highest points on the South Downs: Ditchling Beacon.
This is classic South Downs walking – sweeping chalk hills, skylarks overhead and (if you direct your gaze to the South) you’ve got eye-boggling views that stretch towards the sea on a clear day. It’s invigorating stuff, particularly if you take the climb at a decent pace.
Why guests love it:
Proper panoramic Sussex views
A manageable 4–6 mile circular route
Straightforward access from the village
Afterwards? A hot shower and a local ale taste particularly well earned.
The long-and-lovely South Downs Way runs right along the ridge above us – and for over 100miles in total. Whether you fancy a gentle ramble or a full day’s hike, you can join it locally and tailor the distance to suit your legs (and lunch plans).
This is bucket-list territory for walkers visiting Sussex.
Expect:
Rolling chalk paths
Wildflowers in spring and summer
That wonderful sense of being gloriously outdoors
Many of our overnight guests choose our pub as their South Downs accommodation base – close enough to step straight onto the trail, comfortable enough to properly recover.
A short drive away you’ll find the spectacular Devil’s Dyke.
Legend has it the Devil dug the valley himself. We can neither confirm nor deny (this happened before Landlord Phil was born) but it does make for one of the most dramatic walking spots in Sussex. Wide open ridges, deep valleys, and some of the finest sunset views in the county.
Perfect for:
A breezy 3–5 mile circular
Photographers
Anyone who enjoys saying ‘hello’ to the odd cow or sheep
Stay with us and you get the best of both worlds: countryside calm with Brighton close by.
Perched proudly on the Downs between Ditchling and Clayton, these two historic windmills are about as postcard-perfect as Sussex gets. One is beautifully restored, the other romantically weathered — and together this gorgeous pair make one of the most photographed spots in the county.
From the village, you can create a glorious circular walk of around 5–7 miles, climbing steadily up onto the South Downs ridge before being rewarded with those wide, rolling views that make your lungs feel bigger just breathing them in.
What makes this walk special:
Car park – good for a short mooch with children
A proper sense of Sussex history
One of the best picnic spots around
On a clear day, you can see for miles – across patchwork fields, towards the coast, and along the spine of the Downs. It’s particularly magical at golden hour, when the light turns soft and the windmills glow against the sky.
And finally, If you’re after a walk with serious camera-roll potential, look no further than the magnificent Ouse Valley Viaduct.
This soaring Victorian railway bridge stretches gracefully across the valley near Balcombe — 37 arches of architectural drama set against rolling countryside. It’s big. It’s beautiful. And yes, it’s exceptionally photogenic (as modelled by Landlord Phil).
From Ditchling, it’s a short drive to reach the footpaths that weave around the viaduct. The walk itself is gentle and accessible — more of a scenic wander than a thigh-burner. Perfect for a relaxed morning outing.
Why it’s one of our favourite Sussex walks:
That iconic arched backdrop (you’re in selfie territory for sure)
Wide, open fields that glow at golden hour
Easy terrain suitable for most walkers
If you’re planning a weekend stay in Sussex and want something a little different from chalk hill climbs, this is a wonderful alternative. The contrast between the vast brick structure and the soft green valley sure is easy on the eyes.
The beauty of a Sussex walking break is that it can be as energetic or as leisurely as you like. Climb the Beacon at sunrise, wander through woodland after breakfast, or tackle a stretch of the South Downs Way before rewarding yourself with supper downstairs – whatever suits. And knowing that a warm and cosy bed (we’ve got six upstairs in our lovely pub) is waiting for you is the best part.
If you’re planning a stay in Sussex and want walking routes, fresh air and a welcoming pub to come home to, we’d be delighted to see you.
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