From the South Downs to the River Adur and whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a gentle riverside stroll or a short circular walk with a pub at the end, Steyning is one of the best places in West Sussex to explore on foot. Right at the foot of the South Downs, the historic market town of Steyning has the rolling chalk hills of the South Downs to the south and west, and the flat, open landscape of the River Adur valley to the east, with a fabulous variety of walking opportunities.
You can walk north, south, east or west, taking your pick from steep climbs and sweeping downland panoramas to peaceful riverside paths, ancient woodland and historic villages. And, perhaps just as importantly, Steyning and neighbouring Bramber have plenty of cafés, pubs and places to eat where you can refuel after your exertions.
Long-distance walking trails near Steyning
Steyning is particularly well placed for walkers tackling three of Sussex’s best-known long-distance trails: the South Downs Way, the Monarch’s Way and the Downs Link.
The South Downs Way
The magnificent South Downs Way runs for approximately 100 miles (160 km) between Winchester and Eastbourne. The route passes just south of Steyning, making the town a convenient stopping point for anyone walking the entire trail or simply exploring individual sections. From here, you can head west towards Chanctonbury Ring and Washington, or east across the Adur Valley towards Truleigh Hill and Devil’s Dyke. Either direction rewards walkers with wonderful views, although there are some significant climbs along the way.
The Monarch’s Way
For a walk with a fascinating historical connection, the Monarch’s Way follows the extraordinary escape of the future King Charles II after his defeat at the Battle of Worcester in 1651. This meandering trail stretches for more than 600 miles (approximately 1,000 km), beginning at Worcester and eventually finishing at Shoreham-by-Sea, from where Charles escaped to France.
Unlike the South Downs Way, which skirts the town, the Monarch’s Way passes through Steyning itself, making it easy to pick up a section of this remarkable route.
The Downs Link
If you’d prefer to avoid the hills, the Downs Link is an excellent alternative. Following the course of former railway lines for much of its length, this predominantly flat trail begins near Guildford in Surrey and heads south through the Sussex countryside towards the River Adur and Shoreham-by-Sea.
The route passes close to Steyning and Bramber, offering easy walking through woodland, farmland and open countryside. It is particularly popular with walkers and cyclists and is ideal for anyone looking for a longer walk without the steep climbs of the South Downs.
Riverside walks along the River Adur
One of Steyning’s great attractions is its proximity to the River Adur and the beautiful, open landscape of the Adur Valley. From Steyning Museum and the parish church, it’s only around 0.8 miles (1.3 km) to the river, where a network of footpaths offers delightful, predominantly flat walking.
From here, you can head north through the water meadows or south towards Bramber, following the river as it winds through the broad floodplain beneath the Downs. You can cross the river north of Bramber and at Upper Beeding, allowing you to create circular walks or explore both sides of the valley. For a longer riverside walk, continue south towards Botolphs, where you’ll find the ancient church of St Botolph, a wonderful reminder of the area’s early Christian history.
Walking up onto the South Downs
If it’s steep climbs and heady views you are after, Steyning is the place to start. Immediately south and west of the town, footpaths rise steeply towards Steyning Bowl, Winding Bottom and Steyning Round Hill, with wonderful views back across the town and the Adur Valley.
Continue westwards and you can reach Chanctonbury Ring, one of Sussex’s most recognisable landmarks, with its distinctive crown of beech trees and sweeping views across the Weald and towards the coast.
Annington Hill provides another opportunity to enjoy the open downland, while heading east across the Adur Valley brings you towards Truleigh Hill and Windmill Hill, above Upper Beeding.
These are walks for anyone who loves the sense of space and freedom that comes with reaching the top of the South Downs.
Gentler walks towards Wiston
If you’re looking for countryside walking without quite so much climbing, the footpaths running northwest from Steyning towards Wiston offer a lovely alternative. Here, routes follow the lower slopes and the foot of the Downs, passing through farmland, woodland and quiet rural landscapes. Stop at Wiston vineyard for lunch or Cranks Café before heading back.
Short circular walks from Steyning
You don’t need to walk for hours to enjoy the countryside around Steyning. for a short circular route, head out of town west from Sir George’s Place towards Pepperscombe Farm, climbing steeply up above the farm before looping around between the campsite and Steyning Round Hill. At approximately 2.5 miles (4 km), it’s a shortish walk but with a hearty climb.
For something even shorter, head from Steyning towards neighbouring Bramber and climb to the ruins of Bramber Castle. Although there’s some roadside walking involved, the reward is a wonderful historic setting and views across the Adur Valley and surrounding countryside.
Beautiful Autumn Walk from Tottington Manor to Bramber Castle
Alternatively, simply explore Steyning itself, with its historic streets, ancient church, hidden footpaths and easy access to the surrounding countryside.
A walk for every occasion
Steyning is a wonderfully quirky town with a lot going on, on top of which, it has some really fabulous walking opportunities. And with the welcoming pubs, cafés and restaurants of Steyning and Bramber waiting at the end, there’s every reason to linger a little longer.
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