Best attractions and places to see around Burpham. This historic village in West Sussex is situated between the River Arun and the South Downs, offering a range of historical sites and picturesque landscapes. The area is known for its ancient earthworks, historic churches, and prominent viewpoints within the South Downs National Park. Visitors can explore a variety of natural features and historical landmarks.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
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Cycling is limited. Access from London Road (where cathedral is)
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Beautiful views, trails and architecture in a historical place. Some hill walking, mud tracks (of this time of year) walk along the River Arun. You will see a variety of birds, adulating ground levels, scenic photographic views both panoramic and sculpture. Visit the old market town, churches, a cathedral, views of Arundel Castle, sit by the lake with a hot drink from the cafe at Swanbourne Lake. Walk your own pace and enjoy.
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Burton Mill Pond is part of the Burton Mill and Chingford Ponds Local Nature Reserve (LNR). Originating in the late 16th century to fuel a forge, the pond has a historical past. By the late 18th century, it played a vital role as part of a water mill for grinding corn, with the imposing structure by the road now standing as the remnants of the old mill. It's part of a fabulous landscape as you cycle along the road bordering its northeastern shore.
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Burton Mill Pond is part of the Burton Mill and Chingford Ponds Local Nature Reserve (LNR). Originating in the late 16th century to fuel a forge, the pond has a historical past. By the late 18th century, it played a vital role as part of a water mill for grinding corn, with the imposing structure by the road now standing as the remnants of the old mill. It's part of a fabulous landscape as you cycle along the road bordering its northeastern shore.
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Not far from Arundel is the 1797 tower built by Francis Hiorne as he bid for the contract to rebuild the castle. Today, it stands alone in the landscape, a wonderful, purposeless folly. Hiorne never won the contract he desired, and he died two years later, but his Tower did achieve greatness. It went on to star in Doctor Who.
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Cissbury Ring is one of the jewels in the crown of the new South Downs National Park. It's the largest hill fort in Sussex and has a history dating back over 5,000 years. Set high up on a chalk promontory, its ditch and ramparts enclose about sixty-five acres. From the top on a clear day you can see forever, with views across to the chalk cliffs beyond Brighton and as far as the Isle of Wight.
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Burpham, West Sussex, is nestled between the River Arun and the South Downs, offering picturesque landscapes. You can enjoy the scenic
River Arun Valley
and explorePerry Hill
for gentle inclines and well-maintained footpaths with spectacular views. The area is rich in diverse habitats, making it excellent for wildlife and bird spotting. Additionally, Burton Mill Pond and Mill is a beautiful hammer pond and nature reserve known for its wetland habitats, rare plants, and birdlife.Yes, Burpham, West Sussex, is rich in history. The village itself is built on the site of a
Saxon Burgh
, a fortified village designed to withstand Viking invasions, with earthworks still visible. You can also visitSt. Mary's Church
, which dates back to Saxon times and features a Norman Arch and a thirteenth-century vaulted ceiling. Further afield, explore ancient hillforts like Chanctonbury Ring hillfort and Cissbury Ring Hill Fort, both offering significant historical insights and panoramic views.Burpham, West Sussex, is an excellent base for walking and hiking, particularly within the South Downs National Park. You can find numerous trails leading to prominent viewpoints and historical sites. For specific routes, consider exploring the running trails around Burpham, which often overlap with walking paths. These include routes like the 'View Across the South Downs โ View from Amberley Mount loop' or the 'Woodland Clearing Picnic Spot โ Wephams Wood Bluebells loop'.
For breathtaking panoramic views of the South Downs, several locations stand out. Chanctonbury Ring hillfort offers sublime views over the countryside. Hiorne Tower, a 19th-century folly, provides an excellent vantage point. Additionally, Cissbury Ring Hill Fort, the largest hill fort in Sussex, offers views extending towards Brighton and the coast, and even the Isle of Wight on a clear day. Bignor Hill summit also rewards climbers with far-reaching vistas.
While many of the historical sites and natural areas are suitable for families who enjoy walking, Burton Mill Pond and Mill is particularly noted as family-friendly. It offers a beautiful natural setting with opportunities to observe wetland habitats and birdlife. The restored water-powered milling machine at Burton Mill is also open to visitors on specific dates, offering an educational experience.
The best time to visit Burpham's attractions largely depends on your interests. Spring and autumn are ideal for observing migratory birds at sites like Cissbury Ring Hill Fort. The warmer months offer pleasant conditions for walking and exploring the South Downs. However, some areas, particularly along the River Arun, can be muddy in winter due to flooding, so appropriate footwear is recommended if visiting during colder, wetter periods.
Absolutely! The area around Burpham is popular for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling and running that pass by or lead to many of the attractions. For cycling, explore the cycling routes around Burpham, which include options like the 'Storrington & Pulborough loop'. For running, check out the running trails around Burpham, such as the 'Bluebell Loop'. There are also gravel biking routes available, offering diverse terrain.
The natural landscapes around Burpham, particularly within the South Downs National Park and along the River Arun, are rich in wildlife. At Burton Mill Pond and Mill, you can observe diverse birdlife, rare plants, and invertebrate populations in its wetland habitats. The River Arun Valley and Perry Hill also provide excellent opportunities for bird spotting and encountering various local fauna.
Many of the walking trails and open spaces in the South Downs National Park around Burpham are dog-friendly. Areas like Perry Hill offer well-maintained footpaths suitable for walks with dogs. When visiting, always ensure your dog is under control, especially near livestock, and adhere to local signage regarding leash requirements.
Yes, Bignor Hill summit features a Roman road signpost pointing towards Londinium (London) and Noviomagus Reginorum (Chichester). This sign lies on an intersection of the ancient Roman road known as Stane Street, which connected these important Roman cities. Bignor Hill itself was a strategic location on Stane Street due to its high elevation and commanding views.
In Burpham, West Sussex,
The George and Dragon Pub
is well-known for its food and is considered a very good establishment, making it an excellent option for refreshments after your explorations. For more options, the nearby market town of Arundel also offers a variety of cafes and pubs.Beyond the prominent hillforts, the historical significance of Burpham as a
Saxon Burgh
is a unique aspect, with its figure-of-eight earthworks best viewed from about a kilometer south of the village. TheSt. Mary's Church
with its Saxon origins and 'weeping chancel' is also a fascinating, perhaps lesser-known, historical gem. Burton Mill Pond and Mill offers a tranquil and historically significant natural reserve.

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