Dog-Friendly Walking Trails Near Brighton This Summer

Now that we’ve hit May, the seasonal dog bans on many of Brighton and Hove’s beaches are officially in place until the end of September. While it’s a bit of a change for those of us used to morning coastal runs with our dogs, it’s the perfect excuse to head inland and explore the green spaces around the city and the South Downs. If you’re staying local, Stanmer Park remains the go-to for its massive mix of woodland and open fields. It’s the city’s largest park and serves as a natural gateway to the Downs, with the added bonus of dog-friendly spots like One Garden Brighton and Stanmer House for a break. For something more central, Preston Park offers 63 acres of space and the famous Preston Twins elm trees. You’ve also got the Chalet and Rotunda cafes there, which are both welcoming to dogs. If you’re over in Hove, St Ann’s Well Gardens is a quieter alternative with its sensory garden and exotic trees, while Hove Park provides 40 acres of grass and a miniature railway.

For those looking to get a bit further out, the South Downs National Park has some of the best trails in the region. Devil’s Dyke is a classic choice, featuring a 4.8 km circular route around the UK’s deepest dry valley with panoramic views. Just keep in mind there’s no natural water source there, so you’ll need to carry plenty for your dog. Ditchling Beacon is another solid option, offering a 6.4 km walk to the highest point in East Sussex. If you prefer the coast without the beach restrictions, the Undercliff Walk is a flat, 5 km concrete path connecting Brighton Marina to Saltdean. It’s great for a steady walk on the lead, though it’s worth checking the weather as it can get sprayed during high tides or storms.

If you’re up for a longer hike, Cissbury Ring features an 8.2 km circuit around an ancient Iron Age hillfort. Because there are often sheep grazing, dogs need to stay on leads within the fort area. Similarly, the 9.8 km route between Birling Gap and Cuckmere Haven offers incredible cliff-top views, but you’ll want to be mindful of the edges. For woodland fans, Friston Forest provides a 10.5 km loop that mixes trees with river meadows. If you’re heading out this week, remember that we’re currently in the middle of the ground-nesting bird season, which runs until August, so keeping dogs on the paths helps protect the local wildlife. Also, with the warmer weather, ticks are more active in the downland and forests, so a quick check after your walk is usually a good idea.