The best walks and hikes around Rotherfield
4.5
(1181)
7,774
hikers
60
hikes
Hikes around Rotherfield East Sussex explore the landscape of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by a medieval pattern of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and small fields connected by historic pathways. Waterways such as the River Uck and Crowborough Ghyll feature on many routes, which generally involve gentle undulations rather than steep climbs.
Best hiking trails around Rotherfield
- The most popular hiking route is Groombridge and Harrison's Rocks loop from Eridge Railway Station —…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.0
(1)
14
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
12
hikers
11.5km
03:12
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
hikers
16.8km
04:37
270m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(3)
24
hikers
9.23km
02:29
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
20
hikers
7.63km
02:07
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Rotherfield
Tips from the Community
On the patronage of this church: The apostle THOMAS, one of the twelve whom Jesus called into the closest circle of his disciples, is not often mentioned in the biblical writings of the New Testament. The most prominent passage is precisely the one after the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which has earned him the unflattering nickname "Doubting Thomas" in popular parlance. The evangelist John reports on this in the 20th chapter of his version of the "Good News" (this is the translation of the word "Gospel"). This theme naturally also provided an opportunity for dissemination in religious art of many eras, for example in one of the most famous paintings by Caravaggio - if you are interested, see => https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Der_ungl%C3%A4ubige_Thomas_(Caravaggio)#/media/Datei:The_Incredulity_of_Saint_Thomas.jpg - The memorial day of the Apostle Thomas in the calendar of saints is sometimes celebrated on July 3rd, sometimes on December 21st.
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A steep-ish descent into a beautiful woodland.
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Back-to-basics campsite with running water, compost toilets and plenty of space. Quiet by 10.30pm. Really lovely spot!
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The Kings Arms is a Seventeenth century inn Formerly a barn in the seventeenth century it is said to be one of the most haunted pubs in Sussex
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This tower, which stands out in the forest, was built in the first half of the 19th century by Henry Nevill. It is located on Saxonbury Hill, a late Bronze Age to early Iron Age hill fort that you'll need to go into to see it.
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Along this peaceful path that passes by Green Hedges Farm, you can observe its oast house. There are a significant number of these buildings on the farms in the area, which were used to dry fresh hops for beer production. The one at this farm is a single round kiln oast house.
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Although the north chapel dates from the late 12th century, this church is primarily from the 13th century and was later remodeled in the 15th century with the addition of the tower and a porch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Rotherfield?
There are over 50 hiking routes to explore around Rotherfield, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks. The area offers a great mix, with about half the trails rated as easy and the other half as moderate.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Yes, Rotherfield has many options suitable for families. For a very accessible outing, consider the Hartfield Forest Way Country Park, which features a flat, well-surfaced path perfect for younger children. The region offers over 30 easy-rated hikes, often through gentle fields and woodlands.
What are some more challenging hikes near Rotherfield?
For those seeking a longer day out, the Mayfield loop from Mark Cross — High Weald is a great option. This 10.4-mile (16.8 km) hike takes you through the varied landscape of the High Weald. The area has over 25 moderate trails that provide a good challenge with more distance and elevation.
Are the walks around Rotherfield dog-friendly?
The High Weald is a fantastic area for walking with dogs, thanks to its extensive network of footpaths through fields and woodlands. However, you will likely cross fields with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. Always check for local signage regarding dogs, especially in nature reserves.
Can I find a good pub walk in Rotherfield?
Absolutely. A popular choice that combines a pleasant walk with a pub stop is the St Denys' Church – Kings Arms loop from Rotherfield. This 5.8-mile (9.2 km) circular route is perfect for enjoying the countryside before or after a visit to the pub.
Are there any hikes with historical interest?
Yes, you can explore the area's history on the Saxonbury Tower – Hoth Wood loop from Mark Cross. This trail leads you towards Saxonbury Hill, the site of an Iron Age hill fort, and its distinctive folly tower, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
What kind of scenery can I expect on hikes around Rotherfield?
The hiking here is defined by the classic High Weald landscape: a medieval pattern of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, small, irregular fields, and meandering waterways. You'll encounter serene spots like Hamsell Lake and the River Uck, as well as impressive sandstone formations at places like the highly-regarded Eridge Rocks Nature Reserve.
Are there any circular walks available?
Most of the popular trails in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. The Saxonbury Hill loop from Rotherfield — High Weald is a fantastic 7.2-mile (11.5 km) circular route that showcases the typical High Weald scenery.
Can I get to the trails using public transport?
Yes, some key trailheads are accessible by public transport. For example, the Groombridge and Harrison's Rocks loop conveniently starts from Eridge Railway Station, making it easy to access without a car.
What are the trail conditions like in the High Weald?
Trails are generally well-maintained, but the landscape's clay soils mean paths can become very muddy, especially after rain and during the winter months. It's always a good idea to wear waterproof hiking boots with good grip. In summer, some paths through woodlands like Nap Wood can become overgrown with bracken.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Rotherfield?
The trails around Rotherfield are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the beautiful, quintessentially English countryside, the tranquility of the ancient woodlands, and the well-preserved medieval landscape of the High Weald AONB.
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