The best walks and hikes around East Down
4.6
(1049)
7,622
hikers
288
hikes
Hikes around East Down offer routes through a landscape of rolling hills, woodlands, and quiet country lanes. The area is characterized by its agricultural scenery and the grounds of historic estates like Arlington Court. The terrain consists mainly of gentle ascents and descents, making it suitable for a range of walking abilities.
Best hiking trails around East Down
- The most popular hiking route is Arlington Court loop from Loxhore, a 4.6 mile (7.4 km) trail that takes about 2…
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.7
(21)
104
hikers
7.55km
02:06
140m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
70
hikers
3.00km
00:53
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(7)
57
hikers
8.86km
02:32
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(11)
38
hikers
6.29km
01:46
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(6)
31
hikers
8.17km
02:23
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A great spot for a picnic, as it provides a big table and bench in front of the Jubilee Carin and a fantastic view. The Jubilee Cairn at Arlington Court is a conical stone obelisk situated in the Deer Park Wood. It was erected to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee in 1887, marking the spot where a celebratory bonfire was it. It is a conical, tall, stone structure. Recorded as a Grade II listed buildinf by Historic England and it presents part of the extensive history of the Chistester Family Estate.
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Just a lovely little barn, old houses to see when passing.
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Stick to the lower path rather than hiking all the up the hill only to have to backtrack 😂
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Beautiful old building worth popping into if you're a National Trust member (or even if you're not)
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Wonderful woodland walks with a fabulous collection of Monkey Puzzle Tree's
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Nice place for a quick break in the field
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The Arlington Estate has been in the Chichester family for over 500 years, with the house built in 1823. It has been in the care of the National Trust for over 70 years now, so you can visit the house, gardens, wider estate and the carriage museum there for a fee, or free if you're a National Trust member. A beautiful place to spend a few hours and a great cafe too - keep an eye out for the marvellous peacocks too!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from in East Down?
Yes, there are nearly 300 marked hiking routes in the East Down area. They range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, so there's something for every ability level.
What do other hikers say about the trails in East Down?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the quiet country lanes, beautiful woodlands, and the well-maintained paths through historic estates like Arlington Court.
Are there any good circular walks in the area?
Most of the popular trails in East Down are circular. A great example is the Arlington Court loop from Loxhore, which takes you through a pleasant mix of woodland and open fields on a 7.4 km loop.
Can I bring my dog on the hikes around East Down?
Many trails in the region are suitable for dogs, but they should be kept on a lead, especially when crossing farmland with livestock or within the grounds of estates like Arlington Court. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in East Down?
Definitely. The Arlington Court loop from Arlington is a great option for families. It's a relatively gentle 6 km walk through scenic parkland that's manageable for most ages.
What is the terrain like on the trails?
The terrain around East Down is generally characterized by rolling hills, wooded valleys, and quiet country lanes. Most routes involve gentle ascents and descents rather than steep mountain climbs, making it very accessible.
Are there any hikes with good coastal views?
While many trails are inland, you can find routes with sea views nearby. For dramatic coastal scenery, local hikers often head to the Valley of Rocks, a highly-regarded spot known for its rugged cliffs and sweeping ocean vistas.
Where can I find a good pub for after my hike?
The villages and towns surrounding the main walking areas, such as those near Arlington Court, have several traditional pubs. It's best to check a local map for the nearest one to your chosen trail's start or end point for a post-hike meal or drink.
What are some popular places for hiking in the region?
The grounds of the Arlington Court estate are central to many of the area's best hikes. For a different experience, many people travel a short distance to the Valley of Rocks, a popular area famous for its unique prehistoric rock formations and coastal paths.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
On the trails through woodlands and fields, you can expect to see common British birds and woodland animals. If you venture to the nearby coast, such as the Valley of Rocks, you might be lucky enough to spot the herds of wild goats that roam the cliffs.
Are there any more challenging hikes available?
Yes, for those seeking more of a challenge, there are moderate routes with more significant elevation gain. The Handcrafted Wooden Gates loop from Barton Town is an 8.2 km trail that includes over 200 meters of climbing, offering a more strenuous workout.
Most popular attractions around East Down
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