Sussex Walks
Set within the South Downs in Sussex, the walks around Steyning Bowl explore a striking natural hollow surrounded by rolling chalk hills.
These walks follow open downland paths with wide views and a clear sense of the landscape’s shape and geology.
One option is a shorter, more relaxed circuit within the Bowl itself, focusing on its distinctive amphitheatre-like form.
The longer route is far more energetic, climbing out onto the surrounding ridges and linking with the Monarch’s Way before continuing towards Cissbury Ring and its Iron Age hillfort.
Together, the walks offer two very different ways to experience this distinctive part of the South Downs.
Download the Sussex Walks App to follow these routes with real-time GPS navigation.
Walk information
This short Steyning Bowl walk explores the distinctive hollow formed by the South Downs around Steyning.
The route keeps to classic downland terrain, with rolling slopes and open views that reflect the geology of the Downs.
It’s a straightforward, rewarding stroll that captures the shape and feel of this unique South Downs landscape.
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An outstanding walk
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Walk information
This second option is a much more energetic walk, taking you on a sweeping South Downs route that climbs from the natural hollow around Steyning onto the open chalk hills above.
The amphitheatre-like landscape gives way to broad ridges and far-reaching views.
The path also links with the Monarch’s Way, the 625-mile trail tracing King Charles II’s escape in 1651, before heading towards Cissbury Ring, one of England’s largest Iron Age hillforts, set within earlier Neolithic flint mines.
It’s a walk that combines geology, national history and classic downland scenery in one memorable outing.
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Explore the area
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