Walks from Polegate

Recommended: The views are marvelous in all directions. A walk with road sections at the start and end and an open downland middle following obvious footpaths and bridlepaths. There is a fairly steep climb from Lower Willingdon up onto the Downs and with several kissing gates but no stiles; the bridlepaths on top can be wet and muddy. Follows a short section of the Wealdway then the South Downs Way all the way into Eastbourne, at the eastern end of the South Downs. No facilities along the way.

Hilly: half on high ground, rising above the surrounding land.

Time: 3h–6h

Lunch: No facilities along the way.

Warnings: Steep climb up onto the Downs. Bridlepaths on top can be wet and muddy. Sheep present.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Recommended: A long, mostly easy route using well-surfaced cycle paths out of Polegate, then field paths and country lanes across the Pevensey Levels and followed by a fine stretch of the 1066 Country Walk beside the Pevensey Haven. Finishes along the seashore over shingle or sand before the Bexhill promenade. Follows the 1066 Country Walk beside the Pevensey Haven. Bexhill promenade has the usual seaside facilities including cafes and public toilets.

Pevensey Castle

Time: 5h30–11h30

Lunch: Pubs and cafes in Pevensey village, near the castle.

Warnings: Between Pevensey and Normans Bay the route uses an unclassified road that is not free of traffic, though there are verges to step onto. Expect cattle or sheep in the fields between Normans Bay and Cooden Beach.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

Good views. Hill and moorland paths and with substantial climbs.

Time: 4h30–9h30

Warnings: Short stretch on a fast-traffic road with limited verge.

Walk details: Railwalks.

Farmland, chalk downland, Folkington village and suburban roads at finish.

Warnings: Suburban roads at end.

Source: A shorter variant of Berwick to Eastbourne – Time Out Country Walks Volume 2.

Similar walk: the Saturday Walkers Club.