The best walks and hikes around Storrington And Sullington

Yes, many of the trails in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. These loops vary in length and difficulty, taking you through the diverse landscapes of the South Downs. A great example of a moderate circular route is the View from Rackham Hill summit – View Across the South Downs loop from Parham Park, which offers fantastic views.

The region has a good selection of easier trails suitable for families. These routes generally have minimal elevation and are shorter in length. For a straightforward and enjoyable outing, consider the Kithurst & Chantry Hill loop. It's a relatively short walk with gentle climbs, offering rewarding views without being too strenuous for younger hikers.

Most trails around Storrington and Sullington are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near farmland with livestock. The woodlands and open spaces of Sullington Warren and the adjacent National Trust Warren Hill are particularly popular with local dog walkers. Remember to be mindful of wildlife and other walkers.

For panoramic views across the South Downs, head up to the summits of the local hills. Kithurst Hill and Sullington Hill are two key highlights that reward a bit of a climb with expansive vistas. On a clear day, you can see for miles. The View Across the South Downs – View from Rackham Hill summit loop from Storrington is specifically known for its excellent viewpoints.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll encounter rolling chalk downlands, well-trodden footpaths, some sections of ancient woodland, and open heathland. While many paths are gentle, some routes, like the Sullington & Harrow Hill loop, include ascents to hills just under 200 meters, so expect some moderate climbs.

Yes, the area is rich in history. Many trails pass near significant landmarks. A longer, more challenging hike like the Kithurst Hill and Amberley loop from Storrington takes you through countryside steeped in history. You can also plan routes to include sites like Chanctonbury Ring, an ancient hillfort famous for its beech trees and legends.

Storrington is conveniently located near the midpoint of the South Downs Way, making it an excellent base for exploring sections of this famous 100-mile national trail. Several local footpaths and bridleways connect directly to the main trail, allowing you to hike a portion of it as part of a day walk.

Sullington Warren is a beautiful 60-acre area of heathland and woodland managed by the National Trust. The paths here are generally easy to follow, taking you through a mix of open heath with heather and patches of woodland. It's a protected area, so it's important to stick to the marked paths to preserve the fragile ecosystem, which is home to rare plants and wildlife.

There is a car park at National Trust Warren Hill, located off Georges Lane, which provides good access to Sullington Warren and the surrounding network of footpaths. It's a popular starting point for many local walks. Be aware that the lane leading to it can be uneven, so it's best to drive slowly.

While most routes are through natural landscapes, the villages of Storrington and Sullington offer welcoming pubs and cafes for a rest after your hike. You can easily plan a circular walk to start and end in one of the villages. The café at Sullington Manor Farm is a well-regarded spot located conveniently close to several trails.

There are over 60 hiking routes to explore in the area. These range from 22 easy trails perfect for a gentle stroll to 7 difficult hikes for those seeking a full-day challenge, with plenty of moderate options in between.

The hikes around Storrington and Sullington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the hilltops and the variety of landscapes, from open downland to peaceful woodland.