Shootlab love living and working in Lewes, one of the best things about working in Lewes is that you are located right in the Sussex South Downs. This provides a beautiful backdrop to everyday life and a network of walks in the South Downs, including walks right on your doorstep, such as this amazing Lewes to Southease Walk.

One of the best walks from Lewes Town Centre is Lewes to Southease, a walk which follows the River Ouse in the direction of Newhaven (2 - 2.5 hours). Not only does this walk provide a calming escape from cars and the stresses of life, but it also allows you to grab a cup of tea and cake at the end of the walk at the YHA South Downs in Southease. You can then either walk back to Lewes or jump on the train at Southease station, less than 10 minutes later you're back in Lewes. (it can also be a Lewes circular walk)

Lewes To Southease walking route
The walk begins right in the heart of Lewes Town, head to Court Road in the middle of Lewes and then take Railway Lane, all the way to the end. Here you will find an entry to a riverside path and access to an area called The Railway Land.

Venture into the enchanting expanse of the Railway Land, as you cast a backward glance towards the river, you'll be greeted by the splendid riverside vistas of Lewes Town with its old Warehouse buildings overlooking the River Ouse and various sail boats.

The Railway Land Wildlife Trust | Lewes Nature Reserve Walk
The Railway Land Wildlife Trust is a 27 acre nature reserve in Lewes that is teeming with wildlife and history, take a moment to truly appreciate your surroundings here. Keep to the left following river, on the other side of the river are a selection of beautiful historic houses sitting at the bottom of chalk cliffs, as well as a modernist house known as the Rusty Metal House (Weathered steel-clad self build in Lewes) that featured on Grand Designs!


Keep walking and the landscape unfolds gently as you tread along, until the railway line comes into view. Maintain your course along the river's edge. Once you've navigated past the railway line, the trail subtly swerves to the right, leading you towards the local recycling plant - a marker for those who've parked at Ham Lane. Continue along the gravelly path curving to the left, and you'll find yourself crossing under the bustling A27. Here, a grassy path along the river awaits your exploration.


This walk has an ever-changing tableau - to the left, chalk hills rise and fall; to the right, farmland rolls out in gentle waves. Occasionally, you'll spot the coastal train, a sinuous thread weaving through the landscape - the very same train that will carry you back to Lewes.

This favourite trail of ours offers refreshing air and varied landscapes making it a perfect escape from daily routine and providing a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with nature. A part of the charming South Downs Way, the path suits a range of abilities and showcases impressive countryside views. It's a dog-friendly walk, offering an enjoyable off-leash experience for your pet.

Within the span of 30-40 minutes, the outline of the Southease bridge should begin to materialise in the distance. Upon reaching it, you have a choice - cross the bridge and head towards Southease station, or turn right to explore the delightful Southease village, complete with charming thatched cottages and an endearing church.

Southease Swing Bridge and Wild Swimming Spot near Lewes
At Southease Bridge, there is a slipway with access to the River Ouse, a popular spot for wild swimming near Lewes, paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing, and it provides an easy access point to the river (there is no slipway in Lewes). The water is really clean at this stretch of the river, as it is tidal and this part is close to the sea. You will also find an information board that talks about the interesting history of Southease and its industrial past. People also love to picnic here!

You have now come to the end of the walk, If you cross the bridge you will find Southease Station where you can catch a train back to Lewes (6 minutes)
Should you find yourself with time to spare before the train arrives, we strongly recommend crossing the railway line for a pitstop at the YHA South Downs Courtyard cafe. Walk across the River Ouse at Southease bridge, the only crossing point between Lewes and the coastal port of Newhaven and continue up the path.

Carry on on up the path ahead you will pass through the railway line and find YHA South Downs!



Relax at YHA South Downs Courtyard Cafe
The YHA South Downs has a Courtyard cafe serving a selection meals and snacks as well as this it has a well stocked bar. You can take a break with a tea or coffee and slice of cake! It has clean facilities, and offer a serene garden setting where you can relax and enjoy pleasant views on a sunny day. Given its location on the popular South Downs Way route, you're likely to encounter fellow hikers and cyclists taking a breather here, typically in high spirits.
Getting back to Lewes from Southease by Train
The easiest way to get back to Lewes from Southease is by taking the train at Southease Station. The station is nestled in the heart of the quaint village of Southease and situated on the Seaford branch of the East Coastway Line, has an irresistibly charming vibe.
Believe it or not, the train journey from Southease to Lewes is a mere 6-minute affair, an astounding fact given the richness of the walk just undertaken. There's something quite special about retracing your route from the comfort of the train, offering waves to those adventurers treading the path you've just trodden. Even if they don't spot you, it certainly brings a smile to your face.
Lewes to Southease Walk Overview:
Duration: Approximately 2 - 2.5 hours.
Terrain: Easy to navigate, but can be muddy in the winter, so wear suitable footwear.
Parking: Friars Walk car park, Lewes, or Ham Lane.
Begining: Begin at Lewes Railway Land, Railway Lane or, if parked at Ham Lane, start by the household recycling plant.
Navigation: Very simple - simply follow the right hand side of the river all the way.
Note: Check the train times for your train journey back, especially on Sunday where there is a reduced service. If you do have time to kill, visit the South Downs YHA a perfect place to relax.
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SHOOTLAB is a Content Creation Company based in Lewes, East Sussex. Specialising in Sussex video production, photography, videography, social media content creation, and Social Media Monthly Packages, We have extensive experience working with businesses of all sizes. We create high-quality content for websites, blogs, and social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter. Elevate your brand or business with Shootlab's expertise in dynamic content creation and high-impact Sussex video production.
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