The Sussex Squirrel Loop: Devils Dyke - 28K South Downs Ridge

Escape the rush of the city and immerse yourself in a spectacular 28-kilometre panoramic journey across the rolling spine of the South Downs National Park. Curated specifically for lovers of sweeping landscapes and natural symmetry, this beautiful custom circuit maps out the striking geometric shape of a giant crouching squirrel across the hills.

The Scenic Highlights: Viewpoints & Iconic Landmarks

• Ditchling Crest: Experience your first grand panoramic look over the dramatic northern scarp slope, showcasing the beautiful patchwork fields of the Sussex Weald.
• Wolstonbury Hill Summit: Conquer the high flats of this ancient Bronze Age hillfort site, projecting out from the main escarpment for unhindered vantage points looking north.
• Round Hill (Newtimber): Wander across a beautifully sculpted, tranquil downland summit that gives you an intimate look into the deep coombes and folding green valleys.
• Devil’s Dyke Edge & Summer Down: After exploring the hidden, spring-fed village of Poynings, climb directly onto the spectacular eastern shoulder of the world-famous Devil's Dyke region to gaze into Britain's deepest dry chalk valley.
• West Hill Summit: Command the central high point of the downland mountain passes, looking back over the magnificent network of ridges your legs have structurally conquered.

The Flow of our Day

We will start our hike from Hassocks station at around 10:13 AM with a briefing for the day and a warmup exercise before we hit the trail.

Our mid-hike lunch stop is perfectly positioned right on the grassy crest of the ridge line—allowing us to relax, chat, and refuel with a massive landscape unfolding right in front of us. From there, we keep our momentum going through rolling green pastures, eventual valley descents, and historical scarp passes until our loop is beautifully complete.

To celebrate a magnificent day out in nature, we will finish by dropping into a wonderful, classic country pub back in Hassocks for an optional, well-deserved cold drink and a chat.

### Who is this Hike For?

Everyone who is an experienced hiker especially if you like long-distance endurance walk and love getting a full, active day out in the elements. While the distance is substantial, we will manage our energy steadily to soak in the views without rushing. If you have a solid level of walking fitness, love wide-open spaces, and want to experience the very best scenery Sussex has to offer, this is the perfect line-up for you.

🕓 Schedule & Meeting Info
MEETING TIME: 08:45 London Victoria Station Next to the information booth near platform 12
TRAINS: 09:16 Southern Train from London Victoria to Littlehampton which arrives 10:13 at Hassocks Station
TICKETS: Return to Hassocks (🎫 Train tickets are not included buy on the day or in advance)
HIKE START: 10:13 Hassocks Station
LUNCH: Pack Lunch
HIKE FINISH: 18:30 Hassocks Station (No Guarantees)
RETURN TRAINS: Every 30 minutes from Hassocks station to Victoria
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📍 Hike Overview

• Grade: Strenous 🥾🥾🥾
• Distance: ~28km
• Hiking Time: 7 hrs (plus breaks)
• Ascent: ~ 900m
• Terrain: Woodland trails, rolling hills
• Pace: Moderate but sociable with healthy stops
• Hike Leader: Hike Leader: Abhi – 📞 07865278687

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ADDITIONAL INFO: N/A
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What to Bring
Full kit list- Click Here
✅ Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
✅ Suitable clothing and layers for changing weather
✅ Packed lunch, snacks and water
✅ Train ticket, contactless or travelcard
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📱 WhatsApp: 07968585224
📩 Mailing List: https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk/contact
🌐 Website: https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk
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📜 Terms & Conditions
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