Southern England – Alfriston, East Sussex
Distance: 13km/8 miles
Time: 4hrs
Type: Downland and valley
Where: Circular walk from Alfriston via South Downs Way, High and Over, and Cuckmere Valley.
Start/End: Main car park, North Street, Alfriston (TQ523034).
Terrain: Well waymarked footpaths throughout, with some stiles and steep sections.
Maps: OS Explorer 123; Landrangers 198 & 199.
Situated in the Cuckmere Valley at the eastern end of the South Downs is the picturesque old village of Alfriston. Despite its popularity, the village has lost none of its charm, and remains thankfully unspoilt. As well as several pubs, cafés, restaurants and hotels, there are a few shops, including an excellent bookshop. On the village green, next door to the church (known as the ‘cathedral of the Downs’), is the Old Clergy House – a medieval thatched cottage and the first building bought by the National Trust in 1896 – for just £10! To the north of the village is Drusillas Park (✆ 01323 874100, www. drusillas.co.uk), the best small zoo in the UK, ideal for those with children. Alfriston makes an excellent base for exploring the delightful Sussex countryside to be found all round it, with a variety of fine walks to be enjoyed. This route combines downland and valley walking, with some lovely views along the way.
Click here to download a route card
Click here to download the GPS data for this route as a GPX file
Click below to see a route profile and view the route on an Ordnance Survey map
Click to enlarge
Click here for instructions on how to use Walk’s Routemaster Guides
Click here to upload photos taken along this route
