6-Day / 5-Night Gentle

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to Pyecombe.

Stunning views along the downs as well as north towards the villages and landscape at the foot of the downs and the occasional view to Brighton and the sea for the entire walk. You will pass Jack and Jill, the twin mills at Clayton, as well as several dew ponds and the highest point of the South Downs in Sussex at Ditching Beacon. A short transfer will bring you to your accommodation in the attractive, historic town of Lewes where there is lots to explore – from one of the oldest Norman castles in England to the Anne of Cleves House, given by Henry the VIII’s to his fourth wife.

After a transfer to the trail and a short climb, you will experience mostly easy walking along the top of the Downs with wide views to the north and south. You have the option to visit the 16th century Monk’s House in Rodmell, where Virginia Woolf used to live, before you cross the River Ouse. You can get some refreshments at the nearby YHA South Downs Hostel, while you wait for the transfer to your B&B.

A transfer to the trail  is followed by a very straightforward, easy walk along the top of the Downs with fine vistas all around. Enjoy views of Mount Caburn, an outlier of the Downs  to the north, before you pass the high point of this walk at Firle Beacon. The route then bears more southerly towards the charming, old village of Alfriston, once famous for smuggling and home to two of the oldest inns in England.

This day is without a doubt the highlight of the entire South Downs Way. You start with a lovely riverside walk, followed by a visit to historic Friston Forest. From there you pass the ancient meanders of the Cuckmere River before the route climbs up to meet the English Channel at the iconic and glorious chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters. Follow the cliffs (at a safe distance) to Beachy Head, with its spectacular lighthouse, before your journey comes to an end at the pleasant Victorian seaside town of Eastbourne.

There are regular bus & train services from Eastbourne to London and other destinations in the UK. Full details provided upon booking.