The UK is brimming with fabulous walking routes and these can be found scattered across the whole country. To reinforce the wonders of walking, we’ll be choosing the top walks in every county of England, Scotland and Wales!
Grab those walking boots and stroll along the South of England today; West Sussex to be exact!
The South Down Way
Immerse yourself in the wonderful countryside between Winchester (home to Winchester cathedral and Wolvesey Castle), all the way through to the white chalk cliffs of Eastbourne. The South Down Way is an impressive 100 mile National Trail, 48 of which, can be completed in West Sussex. A 100 mile challenge awaits but if you’d rather make a pit stop at the local pub and take in the South Down scenery, staying within the West Sussex area sounds like a great alternative!
Find more info: http://www.nationaltrail.co.uk/south-downs-way
Slindon Estate
Nestled within the foothills of the South Downs, Slindon is filled with treasured trails amidst an array of woodland, hedgerow, farmland, and of course, wildlife. A particularly popular walking route in the area begins at the village’s The George Inn and leads up to Nore Hill Folly. Sheltered by trees, this walk is ideal for all seasons (whether you need to keep dry or stay out of the sun); however, spring is highly recommended as ramblers can enjoy the bright and beautiful blanket of bluebells under old beech trees.
Find more info here: http://www.ifootpath.com/display-ifootpath-walk?walkID=2766
Littlehampton to Climping
This short Sussex walk starts from Littlehampton’s west beach and continues inland through fields (and the edge of a golf course), before eventually reuniting with the coast. Shingle and sand will greet you in Climping, a rarity in Sussex, so there’s plenty to enjoy! This route is particularly ideal for families who need to keep their children busy as there are many diversions along the way.
Find more info here: http://www.walkingbritain.co.uk/walks/walks/walk_b/2487/
Serpent Trail
Opened by wildlife enthusiast, Chris Packham in 2005, The Serpent Trail boasts (64 miles of) the South East’s stunning heathland and woodland landscape. Putting the ‘s’ in serpent trail, this shape can be followed along the hills of the Sussex Greensand, snaking between Haslemere, Petworth, Midhurst and Petersfield (Sussex Wealden Greensand Heaths Project can be applauded for this walking wonder!)
Find more info here: https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/
The Monarch’s Way
Racking up a total of 615+ miles, The Monarch’s Way is one of the longest of all English long distance footpaths. Not only is the route steeped in mileage, it’s also steeped in history; the path was taken by Prince Charles II in 1615 in the English Civil War! This lengthy route spans from Boscobel, Stratford upon Avon, the Cotswolds, Mendips, and along the South Coast from Charmouth to Shoreham. The finishing point reflects Prince Charles II fleeing to France by being smuggled in a coal ship via the port at Shoreham-by-Sea. The views of historic sites and buildings are to be marvelled at, not to mention some of the most breath-taking landscapes in western and southern England.
Find more info here: http://www.monarchsway.50megs.com/about.html