Alfriston and Berwick
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Our view
"Beginning in the Cuckmere Valley, this breezy walk climbs high on to the Downs before visiting a church renowned for its wall painting."
Walk directions
Turn left on leaving the car park, by the tourism leaflets dispenser, and make for the centre of Alfriston. Pass the cross in the main street and turn right by the Star Inn, following Star Lane. Go straight over at the junction up King’s Ride and continue on the South Downs Way. The road dwindles to a steep flinty track further up. This was originally a drovers’ route for sheep being driven to market. Pass two tracks on the right and follow the wide track as it curves gently to the right. Continue on the South Downs Way, forking right at a signpost, then just after cross a track to take a gate ahead. Proceed along a fence and keep going over this high ground. This stretch of the walk gives exhilarating views over the Downs and towards Alfriston.
Turn right through the next gate, signposted ‘Public Bridleway’, initially following the path between fences, then bending to the left and dropping steeply. The smooth expanse of Arlington Reservoir is visible in the distance.
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Additional information
Terrain
- Exposed paths and tracks
Landscape
- Downland to west of Cuckmere Valley
Dog friendliness
- Mostly off lead but not permitted at Alfriston Clergy House
Parking
- The Willows fee-paying car park, Alfriston; free parking in the smaller car park in the centre of the village
Toilets en route
- In free car park, Alfriston
About the walk
With its charming shops, inns and church, Alfriston is a classic Sussex village. Situated at the foot of the South Downs in a gap fashioned by the Cuckmere River, it’s the perfect place to explore on foot. St Andrew’s Church, known as the ‘Cathedral of the Downs’, occupies a secluded setting by...
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Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
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Been on this walk?
Send us photos or a comment about this route. Or recommend a route of your own.
Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
Explore our range of ‘50 Walks in’ guides - they’re the ideal companion for a ramble.
About the area
East Sussex is a land of stately homes, castles and the South Downs, with miles of chalk cliffs overlooking the English Channel. For history buffs, there are a great many historic landmarks within Sussex, such as the battlefield where the Battle of Hastings took place, or visitors can enjoy pretty towns such as Lewes, Rye and Uckfield and the city of Brighton.
Nearby places to stay
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Nearby places to stay
2 Kingsway Court
A delightful holiday cottage, close to Seaford town centre, the seafront and the South Downs National Park. On the ground-floor there’s a large lounge/diner, large kitchen/breakfast roo...
2 Kingsway Court
A delightful holiday cottage, close to Seaford town centre, the seafront and the South Downs National Park. On the ground-floor there’s a large lounge/diner, large kitchen/breakfast roo...
Ocklynge Manor
Over the centuries Ocklynge Manr has seen a variety of uses since serving as a commanderie for the Knights of St John in the 12th century. An air of peace and relaxation is evident in t...
Warren Wood Country Park
Situated in the heart of the East Sussex countryside, Warren Wood offers luxury woodland or lake side self-catering lodges, all with private hot tubs. Near to the seaside town of Eastbo...
Golden Cross Holiday Park
Situated in the East Sussex countryside, Golden Cross Holiday Park offers luxury self-catering holiday lodges with each one having its own private hot tub. A great location for visiting...
Broadacres
Broadacres is a beautiful property located very near Lewes, and has a single, spacious, self-contained suite for guest use. The richly decorated suite is well equipped – the bedroom fea...
Beachy Rise Guest House
This friendly, family-run guest house has a quiet residential location near the shops, pubs and restaurants in Meads village. Bedrooms are individually styled with co-ordinated soft fur...
Hydro Hotel Eastbourne
The well-managed and popular Hydro Hotel Eastbourne enjoys an elevated position with views of attractive gardens and the sea beyond. The spacious bedrooms are attractive and well equipp...
Places to eat nearby View all
