Description

Discover the beauty and tranquility of the South Downs National Park  within easy reach of Peacehaven. The route undulates across chalk downland hills and swales along bridleways and quiet lanes to the Lower Ouse valley. Enjoy stunning 360 degree views from Telscombe Tye of the English Channel and the South Downs and admire the gentle River Ouse amidst the backdrop of the imposing Itford Hill from Southease Bridge.

The chalk grassland on the South Downs is a rare habitat that supports a wide range of flora and fauna. It is a wonderful place to see the rare Adonis Blue butterfly and wild flowers such as the Devil's-bit scabious - a tall plant with rounded purple-blue flowers that look like a pin cushion and Bird's-foot trefoil - also known as 'eggs and bacon' because of the yellow and orange hue of the pea-like flowers.

In the spring and summer the Lower Ouse valley air is alive with the song of skylarks and you may even catch a glimpse of white egrets too.

Route Detail

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Allow: 1 1/2 - 2 hours cycling or 2-3 hours walking

Route: Bridleways and gravel tracks with some quiet lanes. Suitable for Mountain Bikes or bikes with knobbly/off-road tyres.

Gradient: Gently undulating with one moderate descent on gravel, one steep descent and two ascents on tarmac.

Surface: Unbound gravel in some parts.

Take the Lead

For a safe and fun visit with your dog please remember to keep them on a lead around liverstock and wildlife. Always bag and bin your dog poo - any bin will do!

Getting Here

By Rail: The nearest station to Peacehaven is Newhaven (approximately 2 miles along NCN2). Southease Station is less than 1/2 mile from point 12. Both stations are on the Lewes to Seaford line and trains operate every 30 mins at weekends and every 15 mins on weekdays. Visit nationalrail.com/uk

By Bus: Visit travelinesoutheast.org.uk/se to plan your journey. Buses operate a frequent service of 3-4 per hour daytime.

Route 12/13 Coaster: Brighton - Peacehaven - Newhaven - Eastbourne

Route 14: Brighton - Peacehaven - Newhaven

Contact

South Downs National Park Authority: 01730 814810