Walking Routes Around Goodwood

Mapped routes from gentle strolls to challenging downland hikes

The area around Goodwood offers a wealth of walking routes that take advantage of the South Downs landscape, the estate's parkland and the network of footpaths and bridleways that connect the surrounding villages. The routes below provide options for different abilities and time commitments, from a one-hour stroll to a full-day expedition along the Downs.

The Trundle Circuit is perhaps the most popular short walk in the Goodwood area. Starting from the car park at the top of the hill road near the racecourse, the route climbs to the Iron Age hillfort on the summit of St Roche's Hill, circles the ramparts and descends back to the start. The walk takes approximately one hour and includes one significant climb of about 200 metres. The views from the summit are panoramic, extending from the Isle of Wight to Beachy Head on a clear day.

The Lavant Valley Walk follows the valley of the River Lavant from Singleton to Chichester, a distance of approximately six miles. The route passes through Singleton, West Dean, East Lavant and Mid Lavant before entering Chichester along the course of the river. The walking is mostly flat, following the valley floor, and the route can be shortened by starting or finishing at any of the villages along the way. The pubs in Singleton, Lavant and Chichester provide refreshment stops.

The Kingley Vale Walk takes walkers to one of the most remarkable landscapes in southern England: the ancient yew forest at Kingley Vale, approximately four miles west of Goodwood. The yew trees, some of which are estimated to be over 500 years old, form a dark, atmospheric woodland that is unlike anything else on the Downs. The walk from Goodwood to Kingley Vale and back covers approximately eight miles and includes some steep climbing on the chalk escarpment.

The South Downs Way Section from Cocking to Amberley is a challenging but supremely rewarding full-day walk of approximately twelve miles. The route follows the national trail along the ridge of the Downs, passing through beech hangers, open chalk grassland and some of the most spectacular viewpoints in Sussex. The walk can be accessed from Goodwood by driving to Cocking, and return transport can be arranged from Amberley station.

The Estate Parkland Walk is a gentle circuit of the Goodwood estate's parkland, taking in views of Goodwood House, the motor circuit (from the perimeter) and the golf courses. This walk of approximately three miles is flat, easy and suitable for families, and it provides an introduction to the estate's landscape without the physical demands of the downland climbs.

The Halnaker Windmill Walk follows a tree-lined path from the village of Halnaker to the restored windmill on the summit of Halnaker Hill. The windmill, a brick tower mill dating from the early nineteenth century, provides views across the coastal plain and is a popular photographic subject. The walk is approximately two miles each way and includes a steady climb through a tunnel of trees that is particularly atmospheric in autumn.

All walks are on public rights of way or permissive paths, and OS Explorer Map 120 covers the entire area. Walkers should be prepared for chalky surfaces that can be slippery when wet, and stout footwear with good grip is recommended for the downland routes.