Easy hikes and walks around Balcombe Forest
4.5
(1554)
8,878
hikers
497
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Balcombe Forest traverse ancient woodlands, rolling hills, and river valleys within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The landscape features a mix of broadleaved and coniferous trees, offering diverse natural environments. Hikers can find riverside paths along the River Ouse and encounter geological formations like sandstone outcrops. The area also includes the notable Ouse Valley Viaduct, a prominent Victorian-era landmark.
Best easy hiking trails around Balcombe Forest
- The most popular easy hiking route is…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.9
(8)
46
hikers
4.49km
01:16
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
7.20km
02:00
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(2)
7
hikers
4.20km
01:09
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
2.06km
00:34
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
5.67km
01:34
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This section only suitable for mountain bikes
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If you fancy a break before the short flight of stairs, this bench, placed here by The Balcombe Footpaths & Countryside Association in 1993, is the perfect spot!
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At one end of Pilstye Wood, you'll see this stone outcrop where you can perfectly observe the roots of a tree that grew in a very challenging location.
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Excellent tea and cake stop, highly recommend the flapjack!
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Balcombe Tea Rooms is a hidden gem, snuck just round the corner on a quiet unassuming road from where I rode through the quiet unassuming village for years before I discovered it was there by riding past it on a “I wonder where this goes?” lost lanes explore. Now they know my sandwich order. It’s been a mid-ride destination on many occasions, a life-saver on a few, we cried when it was shut on that grey damp day and it’s a proper no frills nice place to be. You can sit outside in the summer and warm up in winter while gazing out the steamed up windows wondering if the mizzle’s going to ease. They can do you a full roast dinner with a pudding adrift in custard for afters if you want, but they do a good 70km to go sarnie and the back of the cafe has a vast display of cakes to choose from, I’ve seen people crumple at the very sight. And they do proper tea in a pot, although we have to remember that proper tea is theft. They’re very cycling friendly as they sit right in the middle of the Venn diagram of those pedalling up from the south and clubs coming down from the big city but if there’s a bunch of you it’s polite to ring and let them know, they’re also very welcoming because they know that cyclists eat A Lot. There’s no dedicated bike parking, you just leave it outside.
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A random painted wood block found just after the gate
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Avoid busy paths and rest. Do not light fires.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Balcombe Forest?
There are over 270 easy hiking trails around Balcombe Forest, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. In total, the area features nearly 480 hiking routes.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on easy hikes in Balcombe Forest?
Easy hikes in Balcombe Forest traverse ancient woodlands, some dating back to the 1600s, with a mix of broadleaved and coniferous trees. You'll also find gently rolling hills, wooded valleys, and pleasant riverside paths along the River Ouse. Interesting geological features like sandstone outcrops and various ponds add to the scenic diversity.
Are there any circular easy walks in Balcombe Forest?
Yes, many easy routes in Balcombe Forest are circular. For example, the The Half Moon Inn – Balcombe Lake loop from Balcombe is a popular 4.4 km circular trail. Another option is the High Weald National Landscape loop from Worth School, which is 4.8 km long.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions to see on an easy hike?
A prominent landmark is the Ouse Valley Viaduct, a stunning Victorian-era structure often incorporated into hiking routes. The Ardingly Reservoir is also a significant feature, offering views and opportunities for birdwatching. You can explore these areas on routes like the Balcombe Lake – The Half Moon Inn loop from Balcombe.
Are the easy trails in Balcombe Forest suitable for families?
Yes, the easy trails are generally well-suited for families. Many paths are accessible and offer shorter distances with gentle elevation changes, making them enjoyable for children. The diverse woodlands and riverside paths provide an engaging environment for all ages.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Balcombe Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the serene ancient woodlands, the picturesque views over the Ouse Valley, and the well-maintained paths that make for a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Balcombe Forest is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your canine companion. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or wildlife, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Are there any short easy walks for a quick outing?
Yes, if you're looking for a shorter, easy walk, consider the The Half Moon Inn loop from Balcombe. This route is approximately 2.0 km and offers a pleasant, quick stroll.
What is the best time of year to hike the easy trails in Balcombe Forest?
Balcombe Forest offers beauty year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and fresh greenery, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer provides pleasant conditions for walking, but be aware that some woodland stretches can become very muddy in winter, so appropriate waterproof footwear is recommended during wetter months.
Are there options for longer easy hikes in the area?
Yes, for a slightly longer easy hike, you could try the The Half Moon Inn – The Balcombe Tea Rooms loop from Balcombe. This route covers approximately 5.5 km and offers a good balance of distance and ease.
Are there any easy trails accessible by public transport?
Many routes in the Balcombe Forest area are conveniently accessible, with some starting directly from Balcombe railway station. This offers good connectivity for visitors relying on public transport to reach the trailheads.
Most popular routes around Balcombe Forest
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