Car free walk, catch the bus from Brighton
Distance:
<5 miles. 3-4 miles
Location:
East Sussex
Type:
Moderate. South Downs Way
Duration:
2-3 hours
Climb over West Hill to historic Saddlescombe Farm, home to the Hiker’s Rest café. From there it’s a 30–45 minute walk to Devil’s Dyke where you can enjoy stunning views and an alfresco pint while you wait for the bus home.
Look out for Pyecombe Church and its tapsel gate, historic Saddlecombe Farm and donkey wheel, chalkland butterflies, Devil’s Dyke: the longest dry valley in the country, and views over the Weald.
Print or download the guide for full details of the route.
Getting here
The journey out: Head to Churchill Square (stop E) in Brighton and catch Metrobus no.270/271/272/273, leaving about every 30 minutes (but only a few on Sundays). Ask the driver for Pyecombe Garage. The journey takes about 23 minutes (4 minutes after the Black Lion, Patcham).
The journey back: The no.77 bus runs approximately every hour Sat, Sun and Bank Holidays. A Mon–Fri service runs during the summer. It is essential to check current timetables when planning your walk – buses.co.uk
Useful information
Refreshments: Shop at Pyecombe Garage or DIY tea at the church (donations welcomed), Wildflour Café at Saddlescombe Farm and Devil’s Dyke pub.
Toilets: Pyecombe Church, Saddlescombe Farm, Devil’s Dyke.
Maps: OS Explorer OL11, or South Downs Way Guide (available from nationaltrail.co.uk/south-downs-way).
Directions
Start: Go past the BP Garage and turn right at The Plough Inn up Church Lane. At the church turn left onto the South Downs Way and follow the signposts.
Finish: At Devil’s Dyke turn right along the lane to the bus stop by the pub.
For more information about the South Downs Way and inspiration on future routes please visit www.nationaltrail.co.uk/south-downs-way.