The Eastbourne Downland is a wonderful environment for walking and rambling and many areas are open access, free for the public to explore.
There are four farms - Bullock Down Farm, Black Robin Farm, Chalk Farm and Cornish Farm - where access is restricted but there are footpaths and bridleways to guide walkers through these areas.
The Eastbourne Downland can be accessed by a coastal footpath or the inland bridleway.
The South Downs Way
The South Downs Way is a Countryside Agency-designated National Trail.
There are 13 long distance routes in England which have been designated as National Trails, ranging from 137 km to 982 km.
The Countryside Agency publishes guides to these Trails which have been developed specifically for walkers and ramblers to enjoy.
The South Downs way is the only National Trail that is a bridleway. This means that it is also open to cyclists and horse riders.
The South Downs Way is 161 km long and runs from Eastbourne to Winchester, following the route of ancient man along the ridges and valleys of the South Downs.
Detailed information on the South Downs Way is available on the National Trails website. This site divides the Trail into five sections, with separate maps of each one as well as a route map for the entire trail. Details include historical background, wildlife, getting there and facts and figures.
We also have the Wealdway walk between Eastbourne and Gravesend which is another trail worth trying.
Guided Walks and Cycle Rides
Eastbourne's Downland Ranger offers a programme of Guided Walks throughout the Spring and Summer. All walks are circular, cover about three miles and take 2-3 hours to complete.
The Downland Ranger is an expert on the geology and natural history of the area and each walk takes in a wealth of history, flora, fauna and geology.
Our ranger also leads a programme of guided cycle rides and we have a number of longer distance rambles during the winter months.
Our Guided Walks programme differs from year to year and some of our previous walks have included:
- Spring flowers in the environs of Belle Tout
- Evening exploration of Warren Hill to Paradise
- Butterflies on the Downland escarpment
- Exploration of Falling Sands beach at the foot of Beachy Head
If you would like more information about our guided walks and cycle rides contact our Downland Ranger on 01323 415200.
Details of all our guided walks are available in the East Sussex County Council seasonal guide of walks and events called "Exploring East Sussex".
Butts Brow To Birling Gap Easy Access Trail
This is an easy access trail, ideally suited for walkers or outdoor mobility vehicles such as Trampers.
It follows the eastern escarpment of the South Downs next to Eastbourne, reaching the dramatic and world famous chalk clifftop at Beachy Head where the route continues upon the clifftops to finish at Birling Gap.
The trail can be enjoyed in its entirety or sections undertaken as required. However, as this is a linear route, you will need to decide beforehand how you intend to return to your starting point.
Start the trail at Butts Brow car park up on the Downs above Willingdon village via Butts Lane. (Map Ref: TQ579018).
You can download the Easy Access Trail leaflet and map below.
