Sat, 20 December, 17:00
Sussex Trail Runners – Lewes, Castle Hill & Swanborough: Dark Edition
Meeting point: Bridge Over the River Ouse, Cliffe High Street, Lewes
Join Sussex Trail Runners for an atmospheric 20 km (12.4 miles) night trail run from Lewes, taking in Castle Hill, the serene Balsdean Valley, and the ridgeline of Swanborough Hill. With 400 meters (1,310 feet) of elevation gain, this loop offers a fantastic mix of climbs, descents, and open downland trails—made even more special under the cover of darkness.
We’ll head out from Lewes towards Castle Hill National Nature Reserve, drop into the peaceful Balsdean Valley, and then climb back up to follow the ridgeline over Swanborough Hill, with the lights of Lewes guiding us back.
This is a night run, so head or body torches are required. Expect chalky tracks, grassy ridges, and big skies lit by your torch beam—a whole new way to experience the South Downs.
Sun, 25 January, 09:30
Sussex Trail Runners - Lewes, Malling Down Nature Reserve & Offham Hill
Meeting point: Bridge Over the River Ouse, Cliffe High Street, Lewes
Join Sussex Trail Runners for a striking and hilly 15 km (9 miles) trail run starting and finishing at The Bridge over the Ouse on Cliffe High Street. With 480 meters (1,500 feet) of elevation gain, this loop takes you through some of the South Downs’ most iconic landscapes—steep chalk hills, open nature reserves, and meandering riverbanks.
We’ll head out from the historic town center to tackle the ascent of Mount Caburn, offering sweeping views over the Weald, before traversing across to the grassy ridges of Malling Down Nature Reserve. From the high ground, the trail drops down to follow the winding banks of the River Ouse, leading us toward the final climb up Offham Hill.
Expect a mix of steep chalky tracks, riverside paths, and panoramic views, with plenty of ups and downs to keep it interesting. A perfect route for those looking to experience the classic highs and lows of the Lewes downland.
Sun, 22 February, 09:30
Sussex Trail Runners - Birling Gap, Seven Sisters & Windover Hill
Meeting point: National Trust - Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters
Join Sussex Trail Runners for a challenging and spectacular 21.5 km (13.5 miles) trail run starting and finishing at Birling Gap Car Park. With a hefty 750 meters (2,460 feet) of elevation gain, this loop tackles some of the toughest and most rewarding terrain on the South Coast—dramatic chalk cliffs, ancient downland, and dense woodland.
We’ll head out along the iconic Seven Sisters, tackling the undulating coastal path with stunning views of the Channel, before turning inland to conquer the steep ascent of Windover Hill. After taking in the views from the top, the route loops back through the sheltered tracks of Friston Forest, offering a winding journey through the trees before the final stretch.
Expect a mix of exposed cliff paths, steep chalk climbs, and soft forest trails, with plenty of ups and downs to test the legs. A perfect route for those looking for a big day out with a huge variety of landscapes
Sun, 29 March, 09:30
Sussex Trail Runners - Stanmer Woods, Pudding Bag & the Tank Tracks
Meeting point: Lower Lodges West, Car Park, Stanmer, Brighton BN1 9PZ, UK
Join Sussex Trail Runners for a scenic and varied 20 km (12.5 miles) trail run starting and finishing at Lower Lodges West Car Park, Stanmer. With 500 meters (1,640 feet) of elevation gain, this loop explores the best of the Brighton downs—dense woodland, rolling singletrack, and historic military paths.
We’ll head out through the expansive trails of Stanmer Woods, winding under the canopy before heading out towards the intriguingly named Pudding Bag wood. The route continues along the exposed ridge of the ‘Tank Tracks’—concrete paths laid during WWII—offering firm footing and sweeping views across the Downs before looping back towards the estate.
Expect a mix of leaf-covered trails, hard-packed tracks, and open downland, with plenty of ups and downs to keep it interesting. A perfect route for those looking to explore the hidden history and extensive trail network right on Brighton’s doorstep.