Public footpath signpost at Devil's Dyke, West Sussex — Public footpath at Devil's Dyke | © National Trust Images/Gary Cosham

Countryside and woodland in Sussex

Discover the wide range of countryside and woodland spots to explore around Sussex, from the highest point of East Sussex at Ditchling Beacon to the incredible landscape of the South Downs, which takes in broad swathes of chalky downland hills and farms.

September at Devil's Dyke, South Downs, West Sussex

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Devil's Dyke

With its panoramic landscape, Devil's Dyke is one of the most stunning places to pass the time. Whether walking, cycling or taking in the scenery, there’s something for all.

Misty view across the Sussex Downs at dawn from Ditchling Beacon, East Sussex

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Ditchling Beacon

Close to Brighton, Ditchling Beacon is the highest point in East Sussex. Come for the views, the wildlife, picnics, walks, kite-flying and the remains of an Iron Age hillfort.

View over Cissbury Ring, Sussex, in summer

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Cissbury Ring

Discover what to see and do at Cissbury Ring. Take a walk around the largest hillfort in the county and admire the wonderful views.

Tree and fungi on Nore Hill on the Slindon Estate, South Downs, West Sussex

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Slindon Estate

Explore 3,500 acres of countryside on the Slindon Estate. From the historic village to ancient parkland and walking routes for all, there's lots to see and do.

An aerial view across the Cuckmere Valley with a river meandering through the valley and hills covered in chalk grassland and scrub rising on either side

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Cuckmere Valley

Discover what to see and do at Cuckmere Valley. Follow one of the walking routes along the river, look for signs of the past in the landscape and soak in the views.

Saddlescombe Farm, tucked amid trees, with Devil's Dyke behind, at Saddlescombe Farm and Newtimber Hill, West Sussex

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Saddlescombe Farm and Newtimber Hill

With the South Downs Way footpath, ancient woodland and a working farm, there’s plenty to see and do at Saddlescombe Farm and Newtimber Hill. Visit the donkey wheel or information barn for a flavour of life here.

View from Harting Down, West Sussex, where a path is crossed by a wooden gate, with views downhill to a patchwork of fields and woodland

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Harting Down

Dramatic hill-top views and secluded valleys, with abundant wild flowers

A purple haze covers the sunny hillside at Black Down, West Sussex

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Black Down

The highest point in the South Downs National Park

Blackcap bostal white against the dusk on the South Downs

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Blackcap

A classic downland experience with secret woodland glades

A small church surrounded by trees in the rolling green hills of the Woolbeding Countryside

Countryside car parks in Sussex

Some of the Trust’s smaller and more secluded car parks. East Sussex: Crowlink, BN20 0AY. West Sussex: Lavington Common, GU28 0QL and Woolbeding Countryside, GU29 9RR.