FREE HIKE 25 KM | South Downs Way to Brighton

Lace up your boots for a thrilling and richly scenic journey from the quiet village of Hassocks to the bustling Brighton seafront, following one of the South Downs Way’s most captivating stretches.

This route is considered challenging, not just for its mileage and elevation changes, but also for its exposed terrain where wide skies and gusty winds add extra drama to the day.

The adventure begins with a bold climb out of Hassocks, quickly lifting you onto the rolling ridgeline of the South Downs. Within moments, you're rewarded with panoramic views over the patchwork fields and hedgerows of the Sussex Weald, a sweeping green tapestry that seems to stretch endlessly.

One of the day’s high points is Ditchling Beacon, among the tallest peaks on the South Downs. Here, breathtaking vistas unfold in every direction.

On clear days, you might glimpse the North Downs to the north or catch a shimmer of the sea to the south. There's often a mobile ice cream van waiting at the top, offering sweet, well-earned treats for those who’ve conquered the climb.

From there, the trail winds across classic chalk downland, past wind-sculpted hawthorn trees and wildflower-rich grasslands, before dipping into the shady tranquility of Stanmer Park. The park’s ancient woodlands and flint-stone village create a peaceful interlude, perfect for a breather.

As the route briefly skirts the University of Sussex, modern architecture and student life provide a curious contrast to the timeless rural surroundings. Soon after, the countryside returns as you head toward the coast.

The sea gradually comes into view, growing larger and brighter with every step. The final descent passes through open farmland and gentle hills until you arrive at Brighton Beach, where chalk cliffs meet crashing waves and the lively buzz of the city awaits. Brighton Pier rises on the horizon, marking a spectacular end to the journey.

Expect a day filled with variety, beauty, and contrasts, from wild open skies to shaded woodland paths, from peaceful ridges to a vibrant coastal finish, oh and ice-cream!

Bring sturdy boots, weather-appropriate clothing, plenty of water and snacks, and your sense of adventure. This is the South Downs at its most dynamic, and the perfect way to arrive in Brighton on foot.

🛑 IMPORTANT: THIS HIKE IS RATED MODERATE/STRENUOUS AND IS NOT SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS OR REALLY SLOW WALKERS.

📝 NOTES:
Lower sections of the route and open fields can be very muddy and boggy, and after rain, deep puddles in places. Proper waterproof hiking boots are essential. If you wear running shoes and step in a puddle, you’ll likely have wet feet for the rest of the hike.

🌟 HIGHLIGHTS:

• Scenic hills, steep climbs, and woodland trails that test your stamina
• Conquer Ditchling Beacon for sweeping South Downs views
• Visit Stanmer Village, with its 18th-century flint cottages
• Cross exposed ridgelines where weather shifts fast
• A tough route for fit, fast, confident hikers
• Finish at Brighton Beach, where countryside meets the sea

📍 MEETING POINT AND OUTBOUND TRAINS:

• 08:50 — Meet at the downstairs ticket office, London Bridge Station
• 09:00 — Leave the meeting point to board the train
• 09:09 — Train departs London Bridge
• 10:05 — Arrive at Hassocks
• 🎟 Buy a return ticket from London Terminals to Brighton. Direct trains run from both London Bridge and London Victoria to Hassocks and Brighton. Check National Rail for the latest train times and fares.
• A Super Off-Peak Day Return from London Bridge to Brighton is £11.65 with a Network Railcard.

📍 MEETING POINT OPTION 2:

• 10:05 — Hassocks Train Station, Car Park BN6 8LD

🚶 WALK STARTS:

• 10:10 — from Hassocks Train Station, Car Park BN6 8LD
• We will not wait for latecomers.

🏁 WALK FINISHES:

• 17:30 — approx. at Brighton railway station

🚂 RETURN TRAINS:

• Direct trains from Brighton to London terminals
• Estimated time back in London 19:05

⚠️ TERRAIN, CONDITIONS AND DIFFICULTY:

• Distance: ~25 km (15.5 miles)
• Ascent: 538 m | Descent: 535 m
• Highest Point: 242 m | Lowest Point: 9 m
• Terrain: Steep ascents, rolling hills, woodland paths, and some urban sections
• Difficulty: MODERATE/STRENUOUS
• Walking Time: ~6 hours
• Total Time (with breaks): ~7 hours
• Average Pace: 4.2 to 6 km/h (slow on climbs, brisk on flat)

🥪 LUNCH:

• Bring a packed lunch and snacks.

🚻 TOILETS:

• 🏡 Stanmer Village – Available approximately 2.5 to 3 hours into the hike
• 🌿 Bushes may be used for discreet nature breaks, if necessary

🎒 WHAT TO BRING:

• Packed lunch and snacks
• Water (at least 2L)
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Layers and waterproof clothing
• Sun protection
• Medication and basic first aid (Compeed for blisters)
• Optional walking poles
• Fully charged phone
• Camera (optional, for photos)

📞CONTACT:

• If you have any questions, please private message the event host directly via Meetup. A contact phone number will be provided on the day.

❗DISCLAIMER:

• By joining this event, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted the Disclaimer and General Group Policy listed on our Meetup home page. You attend this walk at your own risk.