Walk 13 – Dyke Railway Trail Loop
Walk the Dyke Railway Trail Loop to enjoy spectacular views. Find details about the walk and directions from the nearest bus stop.
About this walk
This route starts of the Dyke Railway Trail and takes you up towards Devil’s Dyke (National Trust site).
The Dyke Railway Trail follows part of the route taken by the old Dyke Railway Branch Line. The line opened in 1887 to carry passengers from Hove to the beauty spot of Devil’s Dyke. When the railway closed in 1938 the line lay empty until the Dyke Railway Trail was created in 1988. Much of this route is on a well surfaced track (tarmac).
The return section follows a bridleway skirting Brighton & Hove Golf course (take care) – with glorious views out across the Downs, over the city and towards the sea.
Map of Dyke Railway Trail Loop
There are 2 maps you can use to navigate this route.
You can download and :
- print a detailed PDF copy of the map
- sign into the free walking Komoot app to use the map below if you prefer to use your smartphone
Directions
Bus number 5, 5a, 5b at Hardwick Road stop
- At the bus stop turn right and continue to junction of Hangleton Way and Hardwick Road. Cross over the road and turn left towards the Downsman Pub, just past the pub you come to the Dyke Cycle Trail car park.
- Turn right into the car park and continue along the surfaced trail crossing the footbridge over the bypass.
- Continue along the surfaced track up the hill passing through the gate.
- Continue along the track to the next gate. Turn right up the hill towards Brighton & Hove Golf Club House.
- Before reaching the club house you will see a gate on your right. Go through the gate and on to the golf course, following the waymark posts with the blue arrows to the left side of the golf course.
- Pass through a gate and continue straight ahead until you reach a fence line. Turn right and follow the path back to the footbridge.
- Turn left over the bridge and retrace yours steps back to the bus stop.
Useful information about this walk
Distance
2.4 miles
Estimated time
1 hour
Bus service
- Number 5
- Number 5a
- Number 5b
Bus stop
Hardwick Road stop
Accessibility - surfacing and obstacles
A large section of this walk is along the Dyke Railway Trail is hard surfaced (sections 1 to 4 can be treated as a there and back linear walk). The rest of the walk is grassy paths, bridleway gates.
More information about our walks
Working landscapes
Many of these walks take you on paths across working farms.
To enjoy it respectfully and responsibly:
- keep your dog on a lead or under close control
- bin your litter and dog poo
- do not disturb livestock and wildlife
- keep to footpaths, bridleways, byways and access land (as directed)
South Downs National Park
Many of these walks are based on routes that were published by the South Downs Conservation Board, now the South Downs National Park.
Go to their website for inspiration on walking routes in the Downs.