The best walks and hikes around Colgate
4.5
(1566)
9,301
hikers
42
hikes
Hiking around Colgate offers an escape into the West Sussex countryside. The landscape is characterized by gentle hills, extensive woodlands like St Leonard's Forest, and meandering streams. The area's network of trails passes several ponds, including Hammer Pond and Hawkins Pond, creating a varied environment for walkers.
Best hiking trails around Colgate
- The most popular hiking route is St Leonard's Forest loop from Colgate β High Weald, a 5.5 mile (8.9 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 20 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores the notable High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Roosthole Forest Path β St Leonard's Forest loop from Mannings Heath, an easy 3.5 mile (5.7 km) path. This trail offers a shorter walk through the peaceful woodland scenery of St Leonard's Forest.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Roosthole Forest Path β St Leonard's Forest loop from Colgate, a 7.2 mile (11.6 km) trail leading through the forest, often completed in about 3 hours 10 minutes.
- Hiking around Colgate is defined by its gentle hills, shaded woodlands, and quiet riverside paths. The trail network provides options for both short, easy walks and longer, more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Colgate are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 60 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore Colgate's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.4
(11)
32
hikers
8.86km
02:21
90m
90m
Embark on a moderate hike through St Leonard's Forest, a captivating loop from Colgate that winds through diverse terrain. You'll navigate gentle hills, extensive woodlands with both deciduous and coniferous trees, and discover open glades, steep-sided ravines known as ghylls, and meandering streams. Keep an eye out for the picturesque "Lily Beds" area and various ponds like Hammer Pond as you cover 5.5 miles (8.9 km) with an elevation gain of 288 feet (88 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 21 minutes.
While the paths are generally accessible, be prepared for sections that can become muddy during wetter seasons, making sturdy boots a wise choice. The route is considered suitable for all skill levels, though its moderate grading suggests a good level of fitness is beneficial. If you plan to run the trail, some sure-footedness might be required on certain parts.
This trail is rich in history and folklore, most notably the legend of St. Leonard, a 6th-century French hermit said to have slain a dragon within the forest. You can even find a "Dragon Bench" commemorating this tale. Beyond its legends, the forest holds historical significance with evidence of ancient inhabitants and iron smelting, and it's recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
4.5
(6)
75
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(5)
54
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
25
hikers
5.26km
01:27
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
17
hikers
9.75km
02:36
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Have you ever seen a phone box converted into a library? Who knows, if you manage to swap a book, you might just find your next adventure within its pages.
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St. Leonard is famous for fighting and killing a dragon in the forest. This bench with a beautifully carved dragon serves as a reminder of the story.
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This small wildlife hospital is dedicated to giving a second chance and caring for all those animals that are sick, injured, and orphaned. You can find more information about their work on their website: https://rangerslodgewildlifehospital.wordpress.com/
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community book swap. Bring one, take one, kind of situation
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Hard pack gravel - can get some decent speed. Best taken in daylight
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St Leonard's Forest is an extensive woodland that affords cultural history, wildlife spotting opportunities and peaceful walking. The 12 square mile (31 km2) Forestry Commission woodland is part of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. According to legend, a French hermit lived in the woodland in the 6th century and slayed a dragon amid the ancient trees. It is after him, St Leonard, that the forest is named.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hiking terrain like around Colgate?
The hiking around Colgate is characterized by the gentle, rolling hills of the West Sussex countryside. You'll primarily walk through extensive woodlands, such as St Leonard's Forest, and along paths that meander past streams and ponds like Hammer Pond and Hawkins Pond.
Are there many trails to choose from in the Colgate area?
Yes, there are over 40 hiking routes to explore around Colgate. The trails range from short, easy walks to more moderate day hikes, offering plenty of options for different fitness levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails near Colgate?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful woodland scenery and the variety of paths available within St Leonard's Forest.
Are the hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Absolutely. The majority of trails in the area are rated as easy, featuring gentle hills and well-defined paths. A great option for a family outing or a relaxed walk is the St Leonard's Forest β Roosthole Forest Path loop from Lower Beeding, which is a pleasant walk through the woods.
Can I find any easy circular walks?
Yes, there are many circular routes. For a shorter loop that still offers a lovely experience of the local woods, consider the Blindman's Wood loop from Colgate. It's an easy walk that takes you through beautiful forest scenery.
Are the trails dog-friendly?
The woodland trails around Colgate and within St Leonard's Forest are generally excellent for walking with dogs. The paths are wide and the area is popular with dog walkers. However, always be mindful of local signage, especially concerning wildlife or areas where dogs may need to be on a lead.
What is the difficulty level of the hikes in this region?
Most of the hikes around Colgate are easy to moderate. You won't find any difficult, mountainous terrain here. The challenges come from the occasional gentle incline and the length of the trails, with most routes being manageable for the average walker.
What kind of scenery can I expect to see?
The landscape is classic English countryside. Expect to see dense, ancient woodlands, open heathland, and serene ponds. The area is part of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, known for its picturesque and varied scenery.
Is it possible to go hiking here without a car?
While having a car provides the most flexibility for reaching various trailheads, some routes are accessible via public transport to nearby villages. It's best to plan your specific route in advance and check local bus schedules to Colgate or surrounding areas like Lower Beeding and Mannings Heath.
Where can I park to go hiking in St Leonard's Forest?
There are several car parks and lay-bys that serve as popular starting points for hikes in St Leonard's Forest. Many routes start directly from the village of Colgate, where on-street parking may be available. Other trailheads near Mannings Heath and Lower Beeding also offer parking options.
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