Burgess Hill to Lewes
A station-to-station walkSussexSouth East England
The best of Sussex downland. A varied South Downs route through woodland, fields and small villages with great downland views, including a steep climb from Ditchling up the chalky, narrow bostal path to Ditchling Beacon, then the South Downs Way past Black Cap and the old racecourse into Lewes. Many sections become very muddy and boggy in winter and requiring boots; expect grazing cattle and sheep. Follows the South Downs Way along the top; passes through Batchelors Farm nature reserve.
Hilly: two fifths on high ground, rising above the surrounding land.
Blackcap (National Trust)
Ditchling Beacon: One of the highest points on the South Downs with near-360-degree views (National Trust).
Lunch: Ditchling, roughly mid-route, has cafes, pubs, a shop and public toilets.
Warnings: A short section along a narrow verge beside the busy Keymer Road; the climb up to Ditchling Beacon is steep with a deeply eroded rainwater channel. Cattle graze on the Downs. Can be muddy.
Credits
Walk details: Slow Ways.