4.7
(1821)
10,583
hikers
290
hikes
Hiking around Coldwaltham, situated within the South Downs National Park, presents a diverse landscape for outdoor activities. The region is characterized by river valleys, including the River Arun and its floodplains, alongside chalk downland and heathland. This varied terrain offers a mix of flat paths, gentle ascents, and open countryside.
Last updated: July 1, 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.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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.
0
0
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.
1
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
Beautiful old church dating back to the 13th century. The churchyard also contains one of the oldest yew trees in the country.
0
0
There are over 280 hiking trails accessible from bus stations around Coldwaltham. This includes a wide range of options, from easy strolls to more challenging routes, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
The trails around Coldwaltham offer a diverse landscape. You'll find a mix of riverbank paths along the River Arun, chalk downland within the South Downs National Park, and ancient woodlands. Some routes also feature rare greensand heath, providing varied experiences from flat, tranquil paths to steeper ascents.
Yes, there are many easy options. Nearly 100 of the available routes are graded as easy. An example is the Coldwaltham Lock (disused) β Waltham Brooks Nature Reserve loop from West Sussex, which is just under 4 km and offers a gentle walk through wetland habitats.
The trails around Coldwaltham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.68 stars from over 1600 ratings. Hikers frequently praise the stunning variety of landscapes, from tranquil river paths to panoramic views from the South Downs, and the abundant wildlife spotting opportunities.
Many of the easier routes are suitable for families. The diverse terrain, including river paths and woodlands, offers engaging scenery for all ages. Look for trails graded as 'easy' for the most family-friendly experiences, such as the Moss-Covered Stone Seat loop from West Sussex, which is under 7 km.
Most public footpaths and trails in the Coldwaltham area are dog-friendly, though it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or nature reserves to protect wildlife. The varied landscapes provide plenty of interesting smells and sights for your canine companion.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes around Coldwaltham are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same point, often conveniently near a bus stop. This makes planning your public transport journey much simpler.
You can discover a wealth of natural and historical points of interest. Highlights include the tranquil River Arun and its floodplains, the ancient woodlands, and the rolling chalk downs of the South Downs National Park. Historical landmarks like the 14th-century Stopham Bridge and the impressive Folly Tower are also accessible.
Absolutely. The River Arun valley and its floodplains, including the Waltham Brooks Nature Reserve, are rich in wildlife. You can often spot numerous wild birds, and the area's diverse habitats support various other species, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
Many villages and towns in the vicinity, such as Pulborough and Fittleworth, offer pubs and cafes that are often conveniently located near bus stops and trailheads. Some popular walks even start from local pubs, providing a perfect opportunity for refreshments before or after your hike.
For those seeking a challenge, there are 17 difficult routes available. A moderate option is the River Arun Footbridge β St Michael's Church, Amberley loop from West Sussex, which covers over 15 km and offers more extensive exploration of the region's landscapes, including the South Downs.
Coldwaltham offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while summer provides lush green landscapes and pleasant weather for riverbank walks. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and even winter can be rewarding with crisp air and clear views, especially across the South Downs.
Many trailheads around Coldwaltham are accessible by public transport from nearby villages like Pulborough and Amberley. It's best to check local bus schedules for routes serving Coldwaltham and surrounding areas to plan your journey to the starting points of your chosen hikes.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.