Tree-lined holloway footpath in West Sussex, South Downs National Park, with sunlight filtering through the woodland canopy.

West Sussex – Chalk Downs, Woodland Weald, and Open Coast

Chalk ridgelines, wooded vales, and a broad Channel shoreline between the South Downs and the Sussex Weald

West Sussex is a county of chalk hills, river valleys, mixed woodland, and coastal plain in South East England. Walking routes cross the South Downs National Park and follow the South Downs Way, Monarch’s Way, the Serpent Trail, and the England Coast Path, linking places such as Chichester, Arundel, Midhurst, Petworth, and Worthing across ridge paths, woodland tracks, and shoreline routes.

Much of the terrain is firm and gently rolling underfoot. Chalk paths, bridleways, woodland trails, and riverside tracks allow steady progress, with moderate climbs along the Downs and flatter ground across the coastal plain and lowland Weald.

The landscape shifts between areas. The South Downs form a continuous chalk escarpment with open grassland and wide views, the Weald to the north becomes wooded and enclosed with streams and farmland, and the southern edge flattens toward beaches, harbours, and tidal inlets.

Towns and villages are frequent along valley floors and the coast, creating regular access points for shorter walks and longer point-to-point routes across connected countryside.

Trails and Routes Through West Sussex

South Downs Way

A National Trail following the chalk ridge between Winchester and Eastbourne with elevated views across the Weald and the Channel.

England Coast Path (West Sussex sections)

Coastal walking sections linking Chichester Harbour, Bognor Regis, Littlehampton, Worthing, and Shoreham along promenades, beaches, and shoreline paths.

Monarch’s Way

A long-distance historic route crossing the county between the Downs and the Weald on farmland and woodland paths.

Serpent Trail

A regional route following heathland and woodland between Haslemere and Petersfield, with southern sections linking toward the South Downs.

Arun Valley Path

Riverside paths following the River Arun between Arundel and Amberley through water meadows and wetland.

Walking Character

• Chalk downland and open ridge paths
• Woodland and lowland farmland
• River valleys and water meadows
• Heathland and mixed forest
• Coastal promenades and beaches
• Frequent towns and villages
• Rolling and coastal mixed

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is West Sussex located?

West Sussex is in South East England between Hampshire and East Sussex, with the English Channel forming its southern boundary.

What defines walking here?

Chalk hills, wooded lowland, river corridors, and coastal paths with a mix of moderate climbs and flatter sections.

Are there long-distance routes here?

Yes. The South Downs Way National Trail and sections of the England Coast Path cross the county, alongside regional and historic routes.

Is the terrain steep?

The Downs include steady climbs and descents, while the Weald and coast are generally gentler.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring through autumn offers firmer ground and longer daylight, while winter conditions can be muddy on woodland and farmland paths.