Kingley Vale Walk Route Guide

Route Description for Kingley Vale Walk

Kingley Vale Walk Route Guide | West Sussex, UK
The Kingley Vale Walk takes you on a stunning path that showcases views of South Downs National Park, as well as Sussex, Hampshire, and the coast. Kingley Vale is known for its open chalk downland, ancient woodland, and sweeping coastal panoramas. There are some steep inclines during this walk and there are numerous gates and stiles that you will have to navigate. Make sure to be prepared and wear proper footwear.

Route Description: Walking Through Kingley Vale

Beginning at the car park, walk north and head towards the kissing gate. Follow the track for about 1.0 km until you reach the gate. This is the beginning of Kingley Vale. Do not head into the park, instead, follow the path on the right and walk for 540 m. If you are lucky, you may catch glimpses of a sunflower field along this stretch. You will come across a four-way footpath fingerpost, where you will turn left. Continue uphill for 530 m, where you will come across the Kingley Vale information board and begin seeing some of the sights of the coast that this path is famous for.

Turn left and climb a bank and navigate a stile. As you continue, the path is a bit difficult but eases, and you will veer right and head into a tunnel of stunning ancient yew trees. This section of Kingley Vale is one of its highlights, with some of the oldest yew trees in Europe forming a shaded, atmospheric corridor. After the tunnel, you will come across a kissing gate, which you will negotiate and then turn left, where you will see the Devil’s Humps. From here, you can see magnificent views of the coast and the Isle of Wight on a clear day.

Walk past the humps after taking in the views and find a chalky path, turn right and navigate two five-bar gates. In 760 m, you will come across a T-junction, where you will turn left. Follow the markers and you will catch a glimpse of Chichester Harbour and find yourself at another T-junction, which you will turn right.

Continue to the woods and wander through here on the path until you reach a road. Turn left at the road junction and walk for 330 m. You will come across a two-way fingerpost and turn down the track where the black and white traffic prevention sign is.

Walk for 740 m and when you see the left track that has the wire fence along it, do not follow this but follow the path parallel to it that you have been on. At the next left, follow this path along the wire fence and in 350 m, you will come to a road. A one-way fingerpost will appear, turn left onto the road and walk for 125 m to a T-junction. Turn left to get to the National Nature Reserve car park and the car park where you began will come into view in 40 m.

Trail Highlights

Devil’s Humps at Kingley Vale

The Devil’s Humps are four Bronze Age barrows that are known as the King’s Graves. These graves are rumoured to be the final resting places of Vikings and are said to hide buried treasures. In 1853, one of the Devil’s Humps was excavated (although this was not the first time), and revealed artifacts such as burnt bones resting on burnt earth, a whetstone, a horse’s tooth, pottery sherds and stag horns, all of which are housed in the British Museum. The elevated position of the Devil’s Humps also makes them one of the best viewpoints along the Kingley Vale Walk.

Planning Your Visit to Kingley Vale

Parking at Kingley Vale

The main car park for Kingley Vale is located near West Stoke and provides direct access to the National Nature Reserve. Spaces can fill up on sunny weekends, particularly in spring and summer when the South Downs are busy. Arriving earlier in the day increases your chances of finding a space.

Best Time to Walk Kingley Vale

Kingley Vale can be walked year-round. Spring and summer offer clear coastal views and wildflowers across the chalk grassland, while autumn highlights the colours of the woodland. After heavy rain, chalk paths can become slippery, especially on steeper sections, so take extra care.

Is Kingley Vale Suitable for Families?

The Kingley Vale Walk is generally suitable for families with older children who are comfortable with hills. The presence of stiles and steady climbs may make it less practical for pushchairs. The open downland and woodland sections provide varied scenery that keeps the walk engaging.

Walking Kingley Vale with Dogs

Dogs are permitted at Kingley Vale, but they should be kept under control, especially where livestock are grazing. The multiple gates and stiles along the route require some lifting or careful handling. Always check local signage for any temporary restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kingley Vale

How long is the Kingley Vale Walk?

The Kingley Vale Walk is 8.0 km long and takes approximately 2.5 - 3.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views.

Is there a cost to enter Kingley Vale?

No, there is no fee to enter and walk in Kingley Vale. It is managed by Natural England as a National Nature Reserve and remains free to access.

What is the closest village to Kingley Vale?

The closest village to the car park for the Kingley Vale Walk is West Stoke. It is a small village, which makes access straightforward and convenient.

Can you eat the berries on a yew tree?

Although the berries may look appealing, the centre of them and the yew tree itself are poisonous. It is important not to eat any part of the yew trees found in Kingley Vale.

What’s New at Kingley Vale Walk in 2026

There are no major changes to access, route details, or parking arrangements for 2026. Kingley Vale remains open as a National Nature Reserve. As always, seasonal grazing and weather conditions may affect ground conditions, so checking locally before your visit is advisable.

Explore More Walking in England

If you are inspired by Kingley Vale and want to explore further, consider browsing our self-guided hiking tours in England for multi-day walking trips across the South Downs and beyond.