FREE HIKE 27km | The Devil’s Dyke to Lancing College | Shoreham-by-Sea

SUMMARY:
🥾 27km (16.7 miles) | Point-to-point | Ascent: 545m | ~7 hrs
🚆 Direct train from London Victoria
Meeting Point: 2 Options
1- London Victoria Station | Main Information Desk (opposite platform 8) | 08:30 (Train is at 08:46)
2- Hassocks Outside train station | 09:45
📍 Hike start: Outside Hassocks train station | 10:00
🏁 Hike finish: Shoreham-by-Sea | approx. 17:00-18:00
⚠️ Steep ascents/descents
📈 Grade: Moderate/Strenuous

ABOUT:
Beginning in the quiet village of Hassocks, the route climbs gradually past the quaint hamlet of Clayton and its iconic windmills before joining the South Downs Way, a national trail known for its wide skies and rolling chalk hills

As the path ascends to Devil’s Dyke, hikers are rewarded with some of the most expansive views in Southeast England. This natural amphitheatre, carved by glacial meltwater, is a highlight of the South Downs and steeped in folklore.

From here, the walk turns toward more secluded trails, passing through sheep-grazed hills and descending into the Adur Valley. The route follows the River Adur, meandering through flat marshland with rich birdlife and glimpses of boats and old bridges

A final approach past Lancing College Chapel with its towering Gothic spire, marks a striking transition from countryside to coast.

The hike ends at Shoreham-by-Sea, a historic port town where river, sea, and sky meet.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Clayton Tunnel North Portal: This tunnel entrance resembles a grand castle. Located about a mile south of Hassocks station on the London to Brighton line, it was built to enable the railway to run under the South Downs.
• South Downs Way: A well-maintained national trail with sweeping ridgeline views across Sussex and to the coast.
• Devil’s Dyke: A dramatic dry valley and natural amphitheatre steeped in myth, offering one of the best viewpoints in southern England.
• Rolling Chalk Downs: Open, undulating landscapes typical of the South Downs, ideal for peaceful walking and wildlife spotting.
• River Adur Path: A tranquil riverside stretch with views of boats, wetlands, and birdlife, offering a flat contrast to the earlier hills.
• Lancing College Chapel: A striking Gothic Revival chapel visible for miles. Home to the largest school chapel in the world and an unexpected architectural marvel.
• Shoreham-by-Sea Harbour & Coast: A scenic finish with sea views, fresh coastal air, and historic maritime character.

TIPS: 💡

• Check the weather: Parts of the South Downs can be exposed and windy. Pack accordingly.
• Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip. Chalk paths can be slippery when wet.

COST:
Free

TRAINS:

• Outbound: 08:46 from London Victoria (direct train)
• Arrival: 09:43 at Hassocks
• Return: Approx. 18:00 from Shoreham-By-Sea
• Best train ticket option: London Victoria <-> Shoreham-By-Sea | Direct train *via Hassocks
• Visit National Rail for details

MEETING POINT & TIME:

• Meet: 2 options
  1- London Victoria Station | Main Information Desk (opposite platform 8) | 08:30
  2- Hassocks Outside train station | 09:45
• Hike start: Hassocks train station | 10:00
• Hike finish: Shoreham-By-Sea | Approx. 17:00–18:00

DISTANCE AND DIFFICULTY:

• Total distance: approx 27 km (16.7 miles)
• Ascent: 545 m
• Descent: 591 m
• Max elevation: 213 m
• Grading: Moderate/Strenuous
• Time: Approx. 7 hours (with breaks)
• Pace: 5 km/h (~3.1 mph)

GUIDE:
See attendee list

WHAT TO BRING:

• Water (2 litres recommended)
• Snacks and packed lunch
• Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing
• Sturdy shoes or hiking boots

SAFETY: ⚠️
As adults, you are fully responsible for your own safety and decisions throughout the walk.

• Steep ascents/descents: There are a few sharp climbs (e.g., to Devil’s Dyke).
• Livestock: Expect sheep and possibly cattle on the Downs.
• Always close gates behind you and stay on marked rights of way.

NOTES:

• This is a group hike led by volunteers. Everyone is welcome to join.
• A few wrong turns? That’s part of the fun!
• While you're free to “hike your own hike,” we encourage group participation, get to know one another, make new friends, and enjoy the journey together.
• Food options are limited en route, bring lunch.

DISCLAIMER:
Event Participation Disclaimer
By signing up for an event we host, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

• The organisers are not qualified hiking leaders, certified first aiders, or formally trained in navigation, survival, or any related disciplines.
• These hikes are informal, self-guided gatherings of like-minded individuals.
• The hosts expressly disclaim all responsibility and liability for any injuries, accidents, or safety incidents that may occur during participation.
• Participation is entirely voluntary, and all attendees are solely responsible for their own safety and well-being.
• These events are non-commercial and are organised purely as a recreational hobby, with no business or financial interests involved.
• Hiking and outdoor activities inherently carry risks of personal injury. By choosing to participate, you accept these risks and take full responsibility for your own actions and decisions.

GENERAL GROUP POLICY:

• Voluntary Participation: Attendance is at your own risk. The group and hosts bear no liability.
• No Professional Duty of Care: Hosts are volunteers, not trained guides or medical professionals.
• Insurance Is Your Responsibility: If desired, you must arrange your own personal insurance.
• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles at all times.
• Emergency Preparedness: You are responsible for organising your own emergency plan.
• Weather and Safety: Events may be cancelled or changed if conditions are deemed unsafe.
• Self-Assessment Required: You must honestly assess your fitness and ability to keep pace with the group.
• No Guaranteed Rescue: While help may be offered, full rescue capabilities should not be expected.
• No Minors Without Guardians: Participants must be over 21.
• Right to Refuse Participation: Hosts may turn away any individual who appears unprepared or poses a safety risk to others.
• First Aid Preparedness Encouraged: It is highly recommended that each participant carries a small first aid kit for minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, bites, and blisters.

FINAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT:
By attending this event, you confirm that you are participating voluntarily and at your own risk. Neither the host nor the group accepts responsibility for any injury, loss, or damage incurred.