4.5
(703)
5,745
hikers
42
hikes
Hiking around Southwater offers a diverse landscape characterized by expansive woodlands, picturesque meadows, and the meandering River Arun. The area features well-maintained trails, including sections of the flat, traffic-free Downs Link, which follows a disused railway line. Southwater Country Park provides accessible paths, including a level, surfaced loop around its lake. Denne Hill offers modest elevation gain with views across the surrounding countryside.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
2.0
(1)
37
hikers
2.85km
00:44
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
26
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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11
hikers
4.95km
01:16
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Southwater Country Park was formed after the closure of the brickworks and quarry in 1981. The area is now a thriving wildlife and leisure area with woodland, grasslands and a lake. There are children's playgrounds, a beach for paddling, watersports, fishing, bike trails and a cafΓ©.
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Wonderful dinosaur themed park that is along the cycle route and trackway way, sells hot food and ice cream so well worth taking a break here.
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Plenty of benches & food & drink in main centre nice place to have a break on the downs link
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This pub can be accessed from the main road or from the Downs Link bridleway. Thereβs a good pizza menu for anyone looking to refuel.
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A well known entry point for the Downs Link off road route between Shoreham and Guildford.
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Southwater offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with over 25 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 45 hiking routes in the area, catering to various preferences.
Easy hikes in Southwater typically feature diverse terrain, including expansive woodlands, picturesque meadows, and tranquil riverside paths along the River Arun. Many routes, like those within Southwater Country Park, offer level, surfaced paths, while others follow sections of the flat, traffic-free Downs Link, a disused railway line.
Yes, Southwater has several excellent circular easy walks. For example, the Southwater Lake β Southwater Country Park loop from Southwater is a popular 1.8-mile circular trail, and the Southwater Country Park β Southwater Country Park Lake loop from Southwater offers a slightly longer 2.6-mile circuit around the lake on level paths.
For families, the trails within Southwater Country Park are ideal. The Southwater Lake β Southwater Country Park loop and the Southwater Country Park β Southwater Country Park Lake loop both offer accessible, level, and surfaced paths around the lake, perfect for a relaxed family stroll.
Many of the easy hiking trails in Southwater are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands and open fields. Southwater Country Park and sections of the Downs Link are popular choices for walks with dogs. Always ensure your dog is under control, and check for any specific local signage regarding dog access, especially near wildlife habitats.
Along easy hikes in Southwater, you can explore various natural features and landmarks. Southwater Country Park itself is a key attraction, featuring 'The Quarry' section known for wildlife. You'll also find picturesque woodlands, meadows, and the meandering River Arun. For views, Denne Hill offers modest elevation and vistas across the countryside.
Yes, there are options for refreshments near some easy hiking routes. The Christ's Hospital School β Bax Castle Pub loop from Christ's Hospital, for instance, leads directly to the Bax Castle Pub. Additionally, The Milk Churn Coffee Shop is another option in the wider Southwater area.
The easy trails in Southwater are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 240 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the scenic beauty of areas like Southwater Country Park and the Downs Link.
Yes, parking is generally available, especially at popular starting points like Southwater Country Park. Many trailheads for easy walks in the area offer dedicated parking facilities, making access convenient for hikers.
Southwater is accessible via public transport. Bus services connect Southwater to Horsham, which in turn has train links to London and the south coast. From the bus stops in Southwater, you can often reach trailheads for easy walks, particularly those around Southwater Country Park, with a short walk.
For a good short and easy hike, consider the Southwater Lake β Southwater Country Park loop from Southwater. This trail is approximately 1.8 miles (2.8 km) long and takes about 45 minutes to complete, offering a pleasant stroll around the lake.
Yes, for easy trails with rewarding views, consider routes that incorporate Denne Hill. While not a specific komoot route listed here, the region research indicates Denne Hill offers modest elevation gain and views across the surrounding countryside, providing a gentle way to enjoy wider vistas.


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