The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Newtimber
4.6
(1687)
17,749
hikers
23
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Newtimber are situated within the South Downs National Park, characterized by rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and expansive views. The terrain features distinctive chalk grasslands and woodlands, including Newtimber Holt, offering diverse habitats. Prominent natural features like Devil's Dyke and Newtimber Hill provide elevated viewpoints across the landscape. The area's geology and varied topography create a range of hiking experiences suitable for different skill levels.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Newtimber
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.3
(4)
16
hikers
4.12km
01:12
110m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
7.69km
02:13
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
17
hikers
14.5km
04:24
480m
480m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
27
hikers
13.7km
03:57
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
67
hikers
9.95km
02:46
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
a great stop for sightseeing - no shade or cover but worth the view regardless
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If you decide to go here go through the field, to the right initially where the fence is trampled down anyway until the crossroads, where you take the left field and walk around it, the owner doesn’t seem to mind as I chatted with him about the track and says he doesn’t blame people and doesn’t mind it. The track was horrifically muddy with clay a meter deep (no exaggeration) u suspect from horse riders destabilising the soil. In other words take the South Downs way if you plan on taking the route through Pyecombe, don’t be like me
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Do it when the weather in nicer..
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Devil’s Dyke is the largest chalk land dry combe in Britain and an area of great beauty. It is a V-shaped valley that has the South Downs Way traversing it immediately south of its location. It also has a multivallate Iron Age hill fort adjacent to it to the west, where on some high ground there is a trig pint that sits on the southern rampart of the fort. At just over 710 feet high (217 m), it is not very high, but the views out over Adder Bottom and the South Downs towards the coast are superb.
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Delicious coffee from a small converted horse trailer. It won't always be there. But if it is, it's a recommendation.
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These old windmills are the best proof that people were clever enough a number of centuries ago - long before the discovery of electricity and the inventions that resulted from it - to harness the power of the elements for their own purposes: no human or animal muscle power is needed for the grinding process, but the wind captured by the wings is enough to drive the heavy millstones and thus, for example, to grind flour from grain (grain mills) or to press oil from olives (oil mills). Often they are only technical and historical evidence of a long tradition of craftsmanship, because most of the old mills have been abandoned over time.
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These old windmills are the best proof that people were clever enough a number of centuries ago - long before the discovery of electricity and the inventions that resulted from it - to harness the power of the elements for their own purposes: no human or animal muscle power is needed for the grinding process, but the wind captured by the wings is enough to drive the heavy millstones and thus, for example, to grind flour from grain (grain mills) or to press oil from olives (oil mills). Often they are only technical and historical evidence of a long tradition of craftsmanship, because most of the old mills have been abandoned over time.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Newtimber?
Newtimber offers a great selection of family-friendly hikes, with over 20 routes available. These range from easy strolls perfect for younger children to more moderate paths for active families.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Newtimber?
The trails around Newtimber are primarily characterized by rolling chalk hills and ancient woodlands within the South Downs National Park. You'll find a mix of gently undulating, grassy paths and some sections with short, steep ascents. The area is known for its distinctive chalk grasslands and ancient woodlands like Newtimber Holt.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, there are several easy options. For a pleasant, shorter walk, consider the Devil's Dyke loop. It's an easy 4.1 km trail offering expansive views without being too strenuous.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints we can see on family hikes?
Newtimber is rich in natural landmarks. You can enjoy dramatic panoramic vistas from the legendary Devil's Dyke Trig Point. Wolstonbury Hill also provides breathtaking 360-degree views. Other highlights include Ditchling Beacon and Blackcap Summit and Trig Point.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Many of the trails around Newtimber are circular, making them convenient for families. For example, the View of Devil's Dyke – Devil's Dyke loop from Poynings is a moderate 7.8 km circular trail that takes you through the South Downs.
What kind of wildlife can we spot on family walks in Newtimber?
The area is a haven for wildlife, especially during summer. The flower-filled chalk grasslands are home to rare butterflies like Adonis and Chalkhill Blues, Dark Green Fritillaries, and Silver-spotted Skippers. You might also spot various bird species and other small mammals.
Are there any longer, more challenging family-friendly hikes for older children?
For families looking for a longer adventure, the Wolstonbury Hill – Jack and Jill Windmills loop from Poynings is a moderate 14.5 km path involving several ascents, offering a more challenging but rewarding experience.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Newtimber?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the spectacular panoramic views from the tops of the Downs, the varied landscape combining open chalk grassland with shaded woodlands, and the rich history of the area.
Are there any historical features to discover on the trails?
Yes, the Newtimber area has a rich history. You can discover ancient features like Bronze Age burial mounds and historic dew ponds, some of which have been restored. These add an interesting historical dimension to your family's hiking experience.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Newtimber?
Spring and summer are particularly delightful for family hikes in Newtimber. During these seasons, the chalk grasslands are vibrant with wildflowers, attracting numerous butterflies. The weather is generally milder, making for more comfortable walking conditions.
Are there any routes that pass by water features?
While Newtimber is not known for large rivers or waterfalls, you can find interesting water features. Some walks may pass by historic Dew Ponds. For a different kind of water experience, the nearby Hove Lagoon is also an option, though it's not directly on a hiking trail in Newtimber itself.
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