Car free walk, catch the bus from Worthing
Distance:
<10 miles. 7-8 miles
Location:
West Sussex
Type:
Moderate. South Downs Way
Duration:
3-4 hours
This classic open downland walk takes in chalk grassland, arable farmland and stunning 360° views from the top of the Downs.
Look out for stunning panoramic views across the county, a dew pond thought to date back to Neolithic times and the Iron Age Hill Fort, Chanctonbury Ring, where evidence of a Roman temple was found during excavations following the great storm of 1987.
Print or download the guide for full details of the route.
Getting here
The journey out: From Worthing take the Stagecoach bus no.1 or Metrobus no.23 to Washington Village. Ask the dirver for the Washington Bostal stop.
The journey back: From the A283 take the no.2 bus to Shoreham-by-Sea for onward train connections.
Useful information
Refreshments: In Washington, Bramber, Upper Beeding and Shoreham-by-Sea. Toilets: No public toilets on this route other than those found in pubs etc. Public toilets can be found in Bramber.
Maps: OS Explorer OL10, or South Downs Way Guide (available from nationaltrail.co.uk/south-downs-way).
Directions
Start: The South Downs Way rises out from a small car park to the south of the village, a short walk from the Washington Bostal/Stokes Mead bus stops. Follow the National Trail symbols to stay on the South Downs Way, though you can take a diversion to visit the impressive Cissbury Ring Hill Fort 1½ miles to the south.
Finish: The walk drops down into the Adur Valley and the hamlet of Botolphs with its Saxon Church. To catch the bus or to carry on walking the South Downs Way, cross the river and then the busy A283, turning left for both the bus stop and the continuation of the South Downs Way. Alternatively, take the riverside footpath north into Bramber village where refreshments and bus stops can be found.
For more information about the South Downs Way and inspiration on future routes please visit www.nationaltrail.co.uk/south-downs-way