Sussex Downs Hiking Trail
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Saturday 6th December

Sussex Downs Hiking Trail

Great course, well marshaled by a cheery bunch!! Back next year for sure - Mark Rankin
★★★★★
Distances
22km | 12km | 9km
No Dogs Allowed
Sat 6th December 2025
8.30AM
Event Location
Plumpton Racecourse,
Lewes.
BN7 3AL

sussex downs

The Sussex Downs Hiking Event is set in The South Downs National Park in Mid-Sussex.

Starting from the well-equipped Plumpton Racecourse, right at the foot of the South Downs, it is within easy reach of Brighton, Haywards Heath, Lewes, Burgess Hill, and the A27/A23.

The Sussex Downs Hiking Event has a lot to offer. Whether it's picturesque and unspoiled views, long-ranging trails, or a challenging climb, there's something for everyone.

There are two routes to choose from: the 21km Half Marathon route and a 12.5km Standard route. The routes begin with a flattish 3.5km tree-lined section to warm up the legs before a tough climb up to the South Downs Way. The climb will reward you with spectacular vistas over the Sussex countryside, the Seven Sisters Country Park, and far-reaching sea views.

From here, you'll enjoy a visually rewarding loop on sturdy trails towards Brighton before heading back up to the South Downs Way, where the stunning scenery will overload your senses.

You will then descend from the Sussex Downs hilltop, taking in the vast, sprawling views before a flat final 3 km to the finish.

Regardless of experience or ability, we actively encourage new participants to our events, and with two route distances to choose from, there's a hike for everyone.

At the finish line, you will receive a well-deserved high-quality metal medal, finisher's gift, and a refreshing drink to celebrate your accomplishment!

Also, why not treat yourself to something from our Merch tent after your memorable hike? We have plenty of products to choose from.

Pick your distance

22km
Approx. Walking Time: 4hrs 18mins
Start Time: 8.30AM
Difficulty
£40.00
12km
Approx. Walking Time: 2hrs 29mins
Start Time: 8.30AM
Difficulty
£35.00
9km
Approx. Walking Time: 1hrs 49mins
Start Time: 8.30AM
Difficulty
£30.00

Route Map

Distance: 22km
Elevation: +434m
GPX
Distance: 12km
Elevation: +240m
GPX
Distance: 9km
Elevation: +180m
GPX

What's included?

Your Entry Includes
First Aid
First Aid
Drink
Drink
Bib & Entry Pack
Bib & Entry Pack
Encouraging Marshals
Encouraging Marshals
Finisher Goodies
Finisher Goodies
Chip Timing
Chip Timing
Finishers Medal
Finishers Medal
Water Stations
Water Stations
Personalised Certificate
Personalised Certificate

Reviews

Well organised from arriving to departing. See you next year
★★★★★
It was an amazing morning loved every minute
★★★★★

Gallery

Blue Light Card Logo - Discounts

Are you a blue light card-holder or NHS worker? As a way of saying thank you, you can now receive a discount on our Inflatable 5K, Trail Runs & Hiking Trails in 2025!

By entering your email address you agree to be contacted by UK Running Events.

How to get there

Kit list

● Mobile Phone
● Event Phone Number: 02033 717 156
● Reusable Cup / Bottle
● Food / Drink Suitable For The Hike
● Rain Jacket

Things to note

● Save The Event Phone Number: 02033 717 156.
● Bib numbers should be displayed clearly on the front of you.
● We are plastic free, please bring a reusable cup / bottle for use at the water stations.
● There will be First Aid support located at the on-course aid stations and event centre.

Spectators

Spectators are always welcome at the Sussex Downs Hiking Trail. We love that spectators further add to the fantastic atmosphere at the event.

Course Signage

The hike will be clearly signed using PINK arrows and PINK tape.

We will also mark hazards and road junctions with 'Caution' signs. Please take care at these points.

Event Day Timings

7:15am - Venue Opens

The car park opens to allow hikers to prepare themselves for the hike and grab a coffee.

8:30AM - All Hiking Distances Start!

The hike kicks off as the walkers cross the start line.

2:00pm - The Hike Finishes / Cut-off Time

Your adventure finishes, you will cross the finish line and collect your bag full of goodies.

2:30pm - The Event Centre Closes

The venue closes.