Friston Forest Walk

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2.5-3.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
10.3 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
234 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead
Friston Forest Walk Map

The Friston Forest Walk is a beautiful, pet-friendly walk. Take in the stunning, rolling hill views of the surrounding English countryside. The path will take you through the woodlands, where you can get away from the busy city life and surround yourself with nature.

Download the 10Adventures App

View Friston Forest Walk on Map

View Map

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for Friston Forest Walk

The Friston Forest Walk has a pretty steep incline in one area, which is not for beginners and can get quite muddy in the wetter months. Ensure you are prepared for this walk with some comfortable walking shoes. Some visitors have mentioned that the cattle can be a little bit aggressive, so be alert when passing some of the wildlife along this path.

From the carpark, and head uphill along the path. You will come across a junction near the top, and you will turn right. After walking for 60 m, you will need to turn left and follow the track. At 100 m, you will be met with a large open area, where you can explore the vibrant wildflowers that this area is known for.

When you continue on your way, after about 600 m, you will turn right and walk downhill for 300 m until you arrive at another track that goes through the forest. Keep your eyes open through this area as it is home to many different types of wildlife.

When you are done exploring the forest, you will arrive at a cottage that is hidden behind a large hedge. There will be a fork in the road that will be visible right after the cottage, and you will follow the left road that is marked "to Jevington" in blue.

Begin walking uphill, and you will come to a gate that is above Charleston Bottom. When you pass through this gate, you will see panoramic views around you. As you continue, you will see the forest, and you will come to another path that widens and is full of wildflowers.

Continuing on, you will pass an old dew pond, which will take you to a large path that is west of Long Brow just before another forest. Here, you will be truly in the wild and will be alone to explore the area. Look for the many species of birds that call this path home. Continuing along, you will come to tree-covered Snap Hill, which is a path that leads you to Friston Hill.

Turn right at the T-junction near Friston Place, and when you see a large country house, turn right and head up the hill and pass through another forested area.

As you pass Middle Brow, cross right, and the path will rise quite steeply. Continuing, you will pass a cottage and then the old Norman Church in Westdean. Turn right here and follow the road to the gate. Pass through here, and you will walk towards the woodlands in the distance.

At the top, turn left along the edge of the wood and follow the sign "to Litlington" (9) (South Downs Way). As you walk in the spring and summer months, you will see an abundance of wildflowers blanketing the forest floor. You will then reach the car park where you began.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the carpark for the Friston Forest Walk?

Friston Forest has a main car park and it is located on Litlington Road that is between Exceat and Litlington.

Is the Friston Forest Walk family-friendly?

No, the Friston Forest Walk is not listed as family friendly as it does have quite a steep incline, which may not be realistic for children to climb.

Is the Friston Forest Walk pet friendly?

Yes, the Friston Forest Walk is pet-friendly, and is a great place for your furry friends to walk.

Insider Hints for Friston Forest Walk

  • Ensure you wear appropriate walking shoes as there is a steep incline along this walk
  • Head to the Seven Sisters Country Park to view the stunning sights of the white-chalk cliffs towering over the ocean
  • The Seaford beach is a great place to cool off after a hot summer's day walk
  • Head to the Michelham Priory Park and Gardens and see many beautiful species of plants and flowers throughout the grounds
  • The Buckle Seaford Hotel is a beautiful property with ocean views and just a short walk to the beach
  • Olliver’s Restaurant is a great place to stop for a bite to eat and a drink

Getting to the Friston Forest Walk Trailhead

To get to the Friston Forest Walk from Seaford, head northeast on Blatchington Road toward Richmond Terrace and take a slight right onto Sutton Drove before turning right onto Alfriston Road. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Eastbourne Road/A259 and turn left onto Litlington Road, and in 0.8 km, you will arrive at your destination.

Route Information

  • When to do

    Year round

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Pets allowed

    Yes

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Friston Forest Walk Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Friston Forest Walk Reviews

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Regions

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Tours

Routes

Blogs