One of my favourite ways to spend a winter day is with a long walk in the fresh air followed by a warming roast in a cosy pub. If this sounds like your idea of a perfect day too, you’re in the right place. I’ve put together five of my favourite winter walks and pub roast combinations, all easily accessible by train.
From sections of the North Downs Way in Surrey to historic streets in Rye and the rolling countryside around Lewes, these five winter walks and pub roasts offer ideal day trip inspiration, with details on walk distance, type, how to get there, and where to go for your lunch after.
Redhill and the North Downs Way
- Walk: North Downs Way
- Distance: Out-and-back as far as you like
- Pub: Home Cottage, Redhill
- Nearest stations: Merstham and Redhill
The North Downs Way is one of my favourite walking routes, passing through the Surrey Hills and Kent Downs, with chalk grassland, ancient woodland and plenty of opportunities to enjoy stunning views. You can choose an out-and-back section which covers as much or as little ground as you like.
To access this part of the North Downs Way, hop off the train at Merstham, the signposted trail is less than a minute away. After your walk, head to Home Cottage in Redhill for a traditional Sunday roast. This is one of my favourite places to eat, with a cosy yet sophisticated vibe and delicious food. The roast beef is a particular highlight, and my tip is to ask for your gravy in a boat on the side.
Hassocks and the South Downs Way
- Walk: South Downs Way
- Distance: Out-and-back as far as you like
- Pub: The Shepherd and Dog, Fulking
- Nearest station: Hassocks
The South Downs are another favourite of mine, with sweeping views out towards the coast and grassy terrain that isn’t too muddy under foot in winter. To access the South Downs Way from Hassocks, simply follow the signposts from the station. Once you’re on the trail, head west past the iconic Jack and Jill Windmills as far as Devil’s Dyke.
After enjoying the incredible views from this famous landmark, head into Fulking to The Shepherd & Dog. Their roasts are to die for, with a special mention for the pork belly.
Amberley and the South Downs
- Walk: Amberley Mount
- Distance: Out-and-back as far as you like
- Pub: The Sportsman Inn
- Nearest station: Amberley
This is another highlight in the South Downs. Amberley is a picturesque village with thatched cottages and an atmosphere to rival the Cotswolds. From the station, it’s an easy walk past Amberley Museum towards Amberley Mount. It’s a bit of a climb, but it doesn’t go on too long and the views are well worth it. This part is paved, so ideal in winter and not slippery under foot. You can follow the South Downs Way for as long as you like before heading back into the village for your roast.
Afterwards, The Sportsman Inn in Amberley offers a welcoming place to stop for lunch. This community-owned country pub serves local Sussex real ales and food, with Sunday and bank holiday lunch served from midday to 5pm. Its conservatory overlooks Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve.
Rye and The George Grill
- Walk: ‘Rambling and Roaming in Rye’ on Go Jauntly
- Distance: Circular, 2.5km
- Pub: The George Grill at The George in Rye
- Nearest station: Rye
For a shorter yet still scenic winter walk, head to Rye. Its historic streets and distinctive architecture make it an appealing destination for a day out, even when the weather calls for a shorter route. After your walk, make your way to The George in Rye on the High Street. The restaurant showcases local ingredients, including Romney Marsh lamb, seasonal vegetables and seafood from Rye Bay.
Lewes to Rodmell and the Abergavenny Arms
- Walk: Lewes to Rodmell
- Distance: Out-and-back, 10km each way
- Pub: The Abergavenny Arms
- Nearest station: Lewes
For a longer day out, the walk from Lewes to Rodmell is one of my favourites. At 10km one way, it is a more substantial walk, but it’s perfect for a full day out when you need the fresh air and really want to work up an appetite. The walk finishes near Monk’s House, the former home of Virginia Woolf, which is well worth a visit too.
Once you arrive in Rodmell, the Abergavenny Arms is a traditional family-run country pub dating back to the 15th century. It serves home-cooked food, local cask ales and a range of wines and continental beers.
Tips for planning winter walks and pub roasts
Walking in winter does take more preparation than a hike on a beautiful summer day, but that doesn’t mean your outdoor pursuits have to stop when the weather turns. With the right shoes, clothes, and plans, a winter walk can offer some of the most beautiful sights and sounds. Here are my tips to keep comfortable on colder, wetter days:
- Check the forecast. The Downs are particularly exposed, so checking which way the wind will be blowing and whether it’s due for a downpour can be the difference between a pleasant walk and a bit of a nightmare.
- Wear suitable footwear. Waterproof walking boots are a must, and I also wear gaiters which protect your lower legs from splashes of mud. Especially if you’re heading into a pub afterwards, you can simply take them off and your legs will be clean and dry.
- Book your Sunday lunch. Popular pubs can fill up, so reserve your table and confirm the menu in advance.
- Check the train journey. Sunday timetables tend to differ from other days, so make sure you plan ahead. Make sure you get great value too, using Railcards, GroupSave if you’re with friends, and Kids for £2 if you’re walking as a family.
Making a day of it: winter walks and pub roasts
Heading out for a walk in the fresh air is one of the best things you can do for your mental health, especially in winter. Pair this with a warming, cosy pub roast and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect day out. Whether you’d prefer a short walk through a historic town or a longer route over the Downs, winter walks and pub roasts are an easy way to enjoy a day out in Surrey and Sussex.
