Highlight • Trail
View from Bignor Hill
Hiking
5.0
(131)
Mountain biking
5.0
(5)
Cycling
5.0
(2)
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April 10, 2019
Hiking
March 6, 2022
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May 2, 2024
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Nearby routes
Best routes near View from Bignor Hill
4.8
(40)
203
hikers
8.64km
02:23
150m
150m
Embark on a moderate hike through the Houghton Forest loop via Bignor Hill, a route that spans 5.4 miles (8.6 km) and includes an elevation gain of 489 feet (149 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in approximately 2 hours and 23 minutes. As you ascend towards Bignor Hill, you will encounter expansive, panoramic views across the rolling countryside, contrasting with tranquil stretches through woodlands filled with ash, yew, maple, and beech trees. The trail also guides you through open fields and along ancient flint-lined trackways, offering a varied visual experience.
This loop is designed for convenience, starting and ending at a popular parking area where you will find the Whiteways Cafe. Be aware that the path features chalky surfaces, which can be stony in certain sections and may become slippery when wet, especially where there is loose chalk gravel. The route is noted as being ideal for dogs, and you will appreciate that it has been designed without any stiles, making for an uninterrupted walk.
Located within the beautiful South Downs National Park, this trail offers a unique blend of forest immersion and wide-open vistas. On clear days from Bignor Hill, you might even catch a glimpse of the sea at Bognor in the distance. The route stands out for its ability to combine serene woodland paths with rewarding, far-reaching views, making it a notable option for exploring the region's natural beauty.
4.6
(23)
129
hikers
14.6km
04:04
280m
280m
Embark on a moderate hike with the Bignor Hill loop from Amberley, a journey covering 9.1 miles (14.6 km) and gaining 908 feet (277 metres) in elevation. This route typically takes around 4 hours and 3 minutes to complete. You will experience diverse terrain, from open fields and woodlands like Houghton Forest to rolling hills. Early in your hike, cross the River Arun via a footbridge, then begin your ascent towards Bignor Hill. From its summit, standing over 700 feet high, you can enjoy panoramic views across the Arun Valley, the South Downs, and even the distant coast.
This trail is easily accessible, often starting from Amberley station, and car parks are available, including one near Bignor Hill. Be prepared for varied ground conditions; some sections can be steep, and paths may become muddy after wet weather, so appropriate footwear is recommended. Route finding is generally straightforward, allowing you to focus on the scenery and your surroundings.
The Bignor Hill loop is notable for incorporating parts of both the South Downs Way and the Monarch's Way, two significant long-distance paths. The area is rich in history, with the ancient Roman Stane Street running directly across Bignor Hill, a strategic location due to its elevation. You might also find Neolithic sites and Bronze Age burial grounds in the vicinity. According to Celtic legend, a dragon once had its lair on top of Bignor Hill, adding a mythical touch to your adventure.
4.7
(15)
53
hikers
4.89km
01:20
70m
70m
Enjoy an easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) hike on the Bignor Hill loop in South Downs National Park, featuring panoramic views and historical paths.
Details
Informations
Elevation 220 m
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Sunday 5 July
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Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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