The best walks and hikes around Steyning
4.6
(1738)
14,702
hikers
45
hikes
Hikes around Steyning explore the rolling chalk hills of the South Downs National Park. The landscape is characterized by open downland, ancient woodlands, and paths along the River Adur. Routes often involve ascents to viewpoints like the Steyning Bowl and historical sites such as Chanctonbury Ring. The terrain offers a mix of gentle riverside walks and more demanding climbs on well-defined tracks.
Best hiking trails around Steyning
- The most popular hiking route is the Chanctonbury Ring loop from Steyning — South Downs National Park, a 7.0 mile (11.3 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 10 minutes to complete. This route features a steady climb to the historic Chanctonbury Ring hillfort.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Chanctonbury Ring hillfort – Langmead Memorial loop from Steyning, a moderate 9.0 mile (14.5 km) path. The trail follows parts of the South Downs Way and offers expansive views across the countryside.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Downs Link – Bridleway Below Beeding Hill loop from Steyning, a 4.7 mile (7.5 km) trail leading through a mix of woodland and open fields, often completed in about 2 hours 5 minutes.
- Hiking around Steyning is defined by rolling chalk downland, paths along the River Adur, and sections of the South Downs Way. The network of trails provides options for various fitness levels, from easy riverside strolls to more challenging hill walks.
- The routes in Steyning are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 70 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore Steyning's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.8
(24)
116
hikers
11.3km
03:11
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(19)
95
hikers
9.36km
02:47
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
56
hikers
4.40km
01:14
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
18
hikers
14.5km
04:12
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
17
hikers
7.49km
02:04
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Steyning
Tips from the Community
The bridleway that climbs up from Castle Town to join the South Down's Way below Beeding Hill provides fantastic views across the weald. Look out for the remnants of ancient cultivation ditches just downhill of the path.
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This footpath follows the edge of fields up a track lined with trees. It's a useful trail joining Steyning with the South Downs Way National Trail.
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A 'Sixpath' or a crossing of six footpaths sits on the Monarch's Way high above Shoreham On Sea. It literally joins and provides access to all of the local hiking routes. With commanding views you can see far out over the South Downs National Park and out into the English Channel. There is even a bench to enjoy it from. Apart from that it's not a bad spot!
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The Downs Link is a beautiful long-distance route for walkers, horse riders, and cyclists that follows two disused railway lines. It crosses the Surrey Hills, the Low Weald, the South Downs, and the Coastal Plain. Since the trains departed in the 1960s, the embankments and cuttings have become a green corridor for wildlife and people.
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High up and commanding stunning views of the South Downs National Park stands this memorial to Mr. and Mrs. Walter Langmead, who were local farmers. The memorial has been erected to give weary walkers and cyclists the chance to rest after climbing up from the nearby picturesque Steyning Bowl.
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A six-way footpath crossing stands high on the South Downs, providing access to many excellent hiking routes. The views from here span as far as the eye can see, including over the beautiful Sussex countryside and out to the English Channel.
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Chanctonbury Ring is a prehistoric hill fort atop Chanctonbury Hill on the South Downs, on the border of the civil parishes of Washington and Wiston in the English county of West Sussex. It is 242m high and is a designated Marilyn. There is a trig point on a nearby sub-summit.
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Perfectly placed on the High Street so you can get to it from the main road or if you drop down from the Bostal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Steyning suitable for dogs?
Yes, the area is very dog-friendly. Many trails in the South Downs National Park are great for walking with dogs, but it's best to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock. The open spaces of Lancing Ring are particularly popular with dog owners, offering great views and safe paths.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks around Steyning?
Certainly. For a gentle and mostly flat walk, consider the St Mary's House and Gardens – Downs Link loop from Bramber. This easy 4 km route follows a section of the Downs Link path along the River Adur and is perfect for a short family outing.
What are some good circular walks starting from Steyning?
Steyning is an excellent base for circular hikes. Besides the popular routes to Chanctonbury Ring, you can explore other loops. For a shorter, accessible option, the Hiking loop from Steyning is a 4.4 km walk that gives you a taste of the local scenery without a major time commitment.
Where can I find the best views on a hike near Steyning?
For spectacular panoramic views, head up to the Steyning Bowl. This well-known viewpoint offers far-reaching vistas over the surrounding South Downs and out towards the coast. Another excellent spot is Cissbury Ring, where on a clear day, the views stretch across the Adur Valley to Brighton and beyond.
Can I access any long-distance trails from Steyning?
Yes, Steyning provides excellent access to the famous South Downs Way. You can join the trail for a day hike or a longer section. The Monarch's Way also passes nearby, offering more opportunities for extended walks through the historic English countryside.
What is the terrain like on the trails around Steyning?
The hiking terrain is varied. You'll find gentle, flat paths along the River Adur and the Downs Link, which follows a former railway line. In contrast, routes heading into the South Downs involve steady climbs on well-defined chalk paths and bridleways, leading to rewarding views from the hilltops.
Are there any walks that include a pub stop?
Many routes can be planned to pass through or near villages with traditional pubs. The historic town of Steyning itself has several welcoming pubs perfect for a post-hike meal or drink. Planning a circular route that starts and ends in the town is a great way to ensure a rewarding stop.
Where is the best place to park for a walk in Steyning?
There are several public car parks in Steyning town centre, which are convenient starting points for many local circular walks. For hikes starting directly on the downs, like those heading to the Steyning Bowl, there is very limited roadside parking available, so arriving early is recommended.
How many hiking trails are there around Steyning?
You can explore over 40 curated hiking routes around Steyning on komoot. The trails range from easy riverside strolls to challenging hill climbs within the South Downs National Park, offering something for every fitness level.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in Steyning?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning, expansive views from the chalk downlands, the mix of open countryside and shaded woodland paths, and the accessibility of historic sites like Chanctonbury Ring and Cissbury Ring.
Are there any gentle riverside walks available?
Yes, the path along the River Adur offers a lovely, flat walking experience. You can follow the river on sections of the Downs Link trail, enjoying the tranquil scenery and birdlife. It's an ideal choice for a relaxed walk away from the hill climbs.
What is the historical significance of Chanctonbury Ring?
Chanctonbury Ring is an ancient and atmospheric site. It's a prehistoric hill fort dating back to the Iron Age, with evidence of even earlier activity. The distinctive crown of beech trees was planted in the 18th century, making it a prominent landmark in the South Downs.
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