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Best wildlife hikes in East Sussex
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Best wildlife hikes in East Sussex

Calling all nature lovers! These wildlife-rich hikes give you the chance to spot some of the forest's cutest inhabitants.

Here are some great hikes to explore in East Sussex.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

England Coast Paths - Southeast S

East Sussex, England · star 4.7 (7) · 99.4 km · Est. 5 days

2

Medium

Camber to Dartford Station Walk via England Coast Path

East Sussex, England · star N/A (0) · 333.2 km · Est. 16 days

3

Easy

Cuckmere Haven and Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk

East Sussex, England · star 4.8 (5) · 8.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 50 min

4

Easy

Jevington - Lullington Heath National Nature Reserve and Litlington

East Sussex, England · star 5.0 (1) · 9.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

5

Easy

Royal Military Canal - Cliff End to Seabrook

East Sussex, England · star N/A (0) · 46.2 km · Est. 3 days

6

Easy

Cuckmere Haven Loop - Seven Sisters Country Park

East Sussex, England · star 4.8 (5) · 6.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 31 min

7

Easy

Lewes Railway Land Local Nature Reserve Loop

East Sussex, England · star 4.0 (1) · 2.1 km · Est. 26 min

8

Easy

Cooksbridge - Hamsey and Offham

East Sussex, England · star N/A (0) · 5.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 6 min

9

Medium

Beachy Head Cliffs, The Holy Well and Helen Gardens Walk

East Sussex, England · star 4.5 (4) · 10.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 56 min

10

Easy

Friston Forest Circular

East Sussex, England · star 4.8 (4) · 10.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 36 min

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Reviews for wildlife hikes in East Sussex

Marcos Soto avatar

England Coast Paths - Southeast S

Marcos Soto · reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Camber to Dartford Station Walk via England Coast Path.

Sulema Fahey avatar

Cuckmere Haven and Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk

TrailheadRanger79 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Forest Paucek avatar

Jevington - Lullington Heath National Nature Reserve and Litlington

WildBacktracker12 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Royal Military Canal - Cliff End to Seabrook.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in East Sussex

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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