Southease to Alfriston – South Downs Way

This easy part of the South Downs Way makes for a pleasant hike, especially if you’re lucky enough to have fair weather! If you hike this route on a clear day, you’ll be treated to panoramic views across the Sussex countryside to the North, over Newhaven and Seaford on the coast, and far out to sea. The high elevation of the South Downs means most of the trail is very exposed, and as such it’s important to wear sun cream on a hot day, rain jackets in inclement weather, and carry lots of water for yourself and any four-legged friends.

Despite the initial ascent up from Southease train station, this route is an easy one. The terrain underfoot is a mix of grass and dirt track, with livestock lining the trail for most of the hike – be sure to keep dogs under close control if you come across the sheep, cows and horses that graze here at various times in the year, and take your poo bags with you. There are wooden signposts pointing walkers in the right direction at various stages along the path, though as the route is a simple one it’s difficult to lose your way, so you can simply enjoy the scenery as you walk! Take the time to stop at the trig point at Firle Beacon, where you might see paragliders taking flight, and look South for a view right over to Cuckmere Haven.

This is a point-to-point route, so you’ll need to consider how to get there and allow extra time to arrive back at the start if needed. There are regular trains to Southease, but if you’re arriving by car there is no available parking at Southease train station. There is a Firle Estate-owned car park at Firle Beacon, though it is around the halfway mark of this route, and incremental parking fees apply depending on how long you’ll need. Otherwise there’s parking in Alfriston village at The Willows, on North Street, though this is the end point of our route. There are multiple buses running from Alfriston to Lewes if you need to head to a well-connected town for your onward journey.

The village of Alfriston is the perfect ending point for this hike, as it’s full of quaint independent pubs and cafes to treat yourself after your walk. Badgers Tea House is a traditional English tea room and is highly rated, as is The Singing Kettle for their cakes, coffee and sandwiches. For a proper pub meal, head to The George Inn for good food and real ales.