The best walks and hikes around Horsham

Yes, the area has many options suitable for families. For a pleasant walk through ancient woodland, consider the Leechpool & Owlbeech Woods loop. It's a relatively short and flat trail. Another great option is Warnham Local Nature Reserve, which features a family-friendly Discovery Trail around its millpond.

Many trails around Horsham are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep them under control, especially near livestock or in nature reserves. Chesworth Farm is a popular spot for dog walkers, offering open meadows. St Leonard's Forest also has numerous paths where dogs can enjoy a good run. Always check local signage for specific lead requirements.

The region is excellent for circular hikes. For a relatively flat riverside walk, the North Stoke and the Arun river loop from Amberley is a great choice. If you're looking for a more challenging loop with rewarding views, the Chanctonbury Ring loop from Steyning takes you up into the South Downs.

For expansive panoramic views, head to the South Downs National Park. Hikes to Chanctonbury Ring or along the escarpment near Kithurst Hill offer spectacular vistas across the countryside. For a different kind of scenery, the Knepp Wildland loop provides unique views of a pioneering rewilding project.

The terrain is quite varied. To the east, in the High Weald, you'll find rolling hills, ancient woodlands with sunken lanes, and some muddy patches after rain. To the south, the South Downs National Park is characterized by open, grassy chalk downland with some steep but short climbs up the escarpments.

There are over 800 hiking routes to explore around Horsham, offering a huge variety of options. These range from short, easy strolls of just a few miles to challenging all-day hikes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of landscapes, from the secluded ancient woodlands of the High Weald to the breathtaking open views from the South Downs chalk ridges.

Yes, for a difficult all-day hike, the Arundel Castle and Hiorns Tower loop from Amberley is a great option, covering nearly 13 miles (21 km). The area is also a gateway to long-distance paths like the High Weald Landscape Trail and the Downs Link.

Warnham Local Nature Reserve is a fantastic spot for wildlife, home to a thriving heronry, kingfishers, and over 100 species of birds. On walks through the Knepp Wildland, you might see Exmoor ponies, longhorn cattle, and various bird species. The South Downs are also known for rare butterflies and wildflowers.

Several natural areas around Horsham are highly regarded by locals for hiking.

• South Downs National Park: A vast and popular area known for its rolling chalk hills and stunning views.
• Warnham Local Nature Reserve: A favorite for its accessible trails, large millpond, and abundant birdlife.
• Chesworth Farm: A well-loved spot close to the town centre for easy walks through meadows.
• St Leonard's Forest: Offers an extensive network of trails through historic woodland and heathland.

Yes, several key trailheads are accessible. Amberley station, for example, provides direct access to several routes in the South Downs National Park, including the Bignor Hill loop. Horsham station is a good starting point for walks into Chesworth Farm or St Leonard's Forest. It's always a good idea to check bus and train schedules in advance.

Yes, the area offers some lovely, relatively flat riverside walks. The Down Links loop along the Adur is an easy trail that follows the river and the path of a former railway line, making for a gentle outing.