4.7
(1695)
10,016
hikers
497
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Coldwaltham are situated within the South Downs National Park, offering a varied landscape for outdoor activities. The region features rolling chalk downs, the River Arun floodplain with its wetlands, and sections of greensand heath and ancient woodlands. This combination provides diverse terrain, from tranquil riverbank paths to trails with gentle elevation changes.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
5.0
(3)
7
hikers
6.94km
01:48
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
15.2km
03:56
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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We visited after the heavy rain of early 2024 and the path around here was deep in mud and water in places. Only usable with caution.
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This is a handy crossing over the River Arun, which is few and far between. A must-do crossing if you are doing the South Downs Way, either hiking or biking.
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Greatham Bridge is a historic bridge which spans the River Arun at Waltham Brooks Nature Reserve. It was built towards the end of the 13th century and benefited from significant restoration work in 2003.
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St Michael's church is tucked away in Amberley village next to the castle. It is an ancient church set in its peaceful churchyard but continues to be a living church community seeking to know, love and follow Jesus.
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The River Arun and the West Sussex Rother which flows into it are blessed with some of the finest medieval bridges around. Greatham Bridge is no exception, although the easternmost section of it was replaced with a less attractive iron span in the nineteenth century, most of the length of the bridge remains seems to look exactly as it was seven centuries ago.
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Beautiful old church dating back to the 13th century. The churchyard also contains one of the oldest yew trees in the country.
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Coldwaltham offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families. You'll find over 475 hiking trails in the area, with 177 of them specifically rated as easy, making them perfect for family outings.
The family-friendly trails around Coldwaltham showcase the diverse beauty of the South Downs National Park. You can expect rolling chalk downs with expansive views, tranquil riverbank paths along the River Arun, and sections of ancient woodlands and rare greensand heath. The area is particularly known for its wetlands, like Waltham Brooks, which are rich in birdlife.
Yes, there are several easy circular options. For a pleasant, shorter walk, consider the Coldwaltham Lock (disused) β Waltham Brooks Nature Reserve loop from West Sussex. This route is just under 4 km and offers a gentle stroll through the wetlands, perfect for little legs.
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Coldwaltham, with an average score of 4.68 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the varied scenery from riverbanks to woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family adventures.
Absolutely! Many trails offer glimpses of local history and natural beauty. You might pass by the impressive 19th-century Hiorne Tower, or the atmospheric Burton Mill Pond and Mill. The Bignor Hill summit also offers far-reaching views for those who venture higher.
Coldwaltham is beautiful year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and new life to the wetlands, while summer offers lush greenery and longer daylight hours. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant foliage in the woodlands. Even in winter, the River Arun floodplain can be strikingly beautiful, though some paths might be muddy.
Yes, for scenic views, consider routes that ascend to higher ground. While not directly on a family-friendly route listed here, the general area around Coldwaltham, including Bignor Hill, offers expansive vistas over the South Downs. Even gentler paths often provide lovely open views of the countryside.
While specific pram-friendly routes aren't highlighted in the data, many of the easy, flat sections along the River Arun or within nature reserves like Waltham Brooks are generally accessible. It's always best to check recent reviews or trail conditions for specific routes if you plan to use a pram, as paths can vary.
For families looking for a slightly longer adventure, the River Arun Footbridge β St Michael's Church, Amberley loop from West Sussex is a moderate 15 km route. It offers a rewarding journey along the river and through picturesque landscapes, suitable for older children or more active families.
Yes, the region features ancient woodlands that are lovely for family walks. While not explicitly detailed in the provided routes, the Moss-Covered Stone Seat loop from West Sussex, an easy 7 km trail, offers a chance to experience the area's natural beauty, often including wooded sections.


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