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Brighton & Hove Group

We are the Brighton and Hove Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking

Overview

Linear Bus Walk linking two of the prime spots on the Sussex Downs. 

A good chance to counter any Christmas over indulgence with a short stiff hike! 



Starting from Ditchling Beacon we follow an undulating track before descending steeply to Pyecombe where we will stop for a short picnic snack break. We then cross the A23 and climb steeply up on to Newtimber Hill across access land , descending again to Saddlescombe Farm before again ascending up to The Devil's Dyke. 



It's possible to break the walk at Pyecombe after 3 miles and return to Brighton or the start independently.The leader will continue to The Dyke.

 

Saturday, 27 December 2025
Start time:
11:10 am
Estimated finish time:
3:00 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
11.3km / 7.0mi
Ascent:
N/A
Type:
linear

Following good tracks throughout. However you should still expect some sticky and slippery sections. Two stiles. Poles may be helpful. The walk is often above 200m and is exposed to the weather, so proper boots and appropriate clothing will be required.



The walk is best tackled by bus- The 79 runs from the centre of Brighton via the station to the start and the 77 does the same in going home. www.buses.co.uk to find your nearest stop.



There are NT pay car parks at both ends but you will need to leave a car at both ends.



Please bring a snack and something to drink. There are sometimes toilets open at Pyecombe and there is a pub at the end to warm up in before catching your bus!

Assistance dogs only on this walk please. 

Features

  • Accessible by public transport
  • Car parking available
  • Car sharing available

Starting point

Grid reference:
TQ 33344 12961
Nearest postcode:
BN6 8RJ
what3words:
logbook.hiked.divisible
Start time:
11:10 am

Ditchling Beacon Car Park, Ditchling Road Leader arriving by 79 bus. Arrives 1108

Finishing point

Grid reference:
TQ 25812 10930
Nearest postcode:
BN1 8YL
what3words:
collected.removers.question
Estimated finish time:
3:00 pm

Bus Stop opposite Devil's Dyke Hotel, Devil's Dyke Road (77 Bus Stop back to Brighton) departs1440, 1545

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking