When I think of Brighton, great hikes are not the first thing which comes to mind. I always think of the vibrant city with a lively pier and historic lanes, but I've recently discovered it has some sensational walks and hikes with amazing coastal views, photo opportunities, wildlife to spot, and nature to watch. The best bit is they're free and Southern Railway has such great connections to Brighton station so no more worrying about traffic and parking.
If you're looking for outdoor adventures or the best place to go for a long walk, then Brighton ticks all the boxes.
Best walks near Brighton
The Undercliff Walk
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty level: Easy
Highlights: Dog-friendly with stunning views
One of the most popular coastal walks near Brighton, the Undercliff walk is a 3-mile ramble starting at Brighton marina going to Saltdean. This coastal walk boasts unprecedented views of the beaches below and offers the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with the white chalk cliffs.
The route under the white cliffs is beautiful, with views out along the beaches and sea which are beautiful all year round. There are plenty of cafés and restaurants along the way for a break, and this is a dog-friendly walk.
The path is flat so this is a relatively easy walk. You can get the number 27 bus which runs every 10 minutes from Brighton station to the marina starting point, the bus takes just 15 minutes or walking to the marina would take just shy of an hour.
Just be aware, if you tackle the Undercliff walk at high tide, don't be surprised if you find yourself a bit wet when the waves splash over the wall. Do plan your walk, and only go out on the cliff walk when safe to do so.
Read about travelling with your pets on the train here
Brighton Coastal Walk
Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty level: Easy
Highlights: Wonderful views over Shoreham
Another fantastic walk is the Brighton coastal walk, which is 5 miles, and is again a very flat section of path making it an easy walk. Starting at Brighton pier, head west towards Hove, the trail goes all along the seafront past Portslade, past the oldest pub in Brighton to Southwick.
The end of the route is Monarch's Way by the harbour and has wonderful views over Shoreham with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. The pier, and starting point, is just a 20 minute walk from Brighton train station.
If you're looking for a charming coastal walk, there aren't many better than this one in Brighton.
Stanmer Park Circular Walk
Distance: 5-6 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Highlights: Feel like you're in the south of France with beautiful scenery and history
Finally, my personal favourite, is the Stanmer Park Circular walk. This is a moderate walk which is 5-6 miles and will take about 3-4 hours to complete. The Stanmer Estate covers approximately 5,000 acres of land with a café, a village, a manor house and a farm. I got the number 78 Breeze Bus from Brighton, but there's also the possibility of getting the train to Falmer from Brighton station which is just as quick.
There is plenty of history to explore on the walk, plus beautiful scenery the whole way round. I stopped off at One Garden Brighton for a light lunch and it was amazing, it really felt like being on holiday somewhere in the South of France. It's an old walled garden which has been rediscovered and grows enormous amounts of flowers and produce.
Brighton to Lewes walk
Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Highlights: Idyllic villages, cottages and castles
There are a whole host of South Downs walks near Brighton. One that stands out is the Brighton to Lewes walk. One of the best countryside walks to reach from the city, this 7-mile hike offers impressive views of the South Downs.
Starting from the train station, head out towards the South Downs Way National Trail. Once you've reached the trail, you'll have access to miles of untouched grassland and impressive views.
Taking a moment to stop at the idyllic village of Kingston, you'll see nothing but charming 14th-century cottages before you begin the ascent to the big finale on your Brighton to Lewes walk: Lewes Castle.
Falmer Hiking Loop
Distance: 7.5 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Highlights: Falmer pond, the historic church of Falmer, and see sensational panoramic views
Looking for a woodland walk near Brighton? Look no further than the Falmer Hiking Loop, which is 7.5 miles and will take between 3 and 4 hours to complete. Falmer is a village just outside of Brighton, and is just one stop away on the train.
You'll walk through a wide range of landscapes, including beautiful rolling hills, open fields and gorgeous rural villages. As you meander through the leafy woodland track, you'll have the chance to take in some of the most beautiful views in the south. Offering lovely vistas across the South Downs, you'll feel on top of the world as you reach a high vantage point. This is a dog-friendly Brighton walk, and I recommend you stop for a picnic or head back down towards the city for a refreshing pint at The World's End.
The trail is well sign posted and provides such a peaceful escape from the city hustle and bustle. You'll pass by the serene Falmer pond, the historic church of Falmer and see sensational panoramic views.
