New Coastal Path Opens: Your Brighton Day Trip Guide

The King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIIIECP) just got a whole lot bigger. As of Wednesday, February 4, 2026, a brand new 35-mile stretch officially opened, completing a continuous 210-mile coastal route running all the way from Calshot in Hampshire to Rye Harbour in East Sussex. This is huge news for anyone who loves getting out on the coast, as it means our local paths are now connected to a massive national trail.

While the new 35-mile section is located further west, connecting South Hayling to East Head near West Wittering, it offers a fantastic destination for a day trip if you fancy a drive. This stretch around Chichester Harbour is designed to be accessible for people of all ages and abilities, featuring improved surfaces and new boardwalks. It’s a brilliant spot for wildlife enthusiasts, passing through salt marshes and mudflats where you might spot seals or migratory birds like Brent geese and curlews. You can even take an eight-mile circuit around Thorney Island specifically for birdwatching, or use the historic Itchenor Ferry to cross the Chichester Channel.

Closer to home, the continuous KCIIIECP offers plenty of options for a seaside adventure right here in Brighton. The section running from Shoreham-by-Sea to Saltdean is fully open. Starting near the River Adur estuary, the path takes you past Shoreham Port, along the Hove Esplanade, and right past the iconic landmarks of the remains of the West Pier and the towering structure of the Brighton i360 (currently closed). It continues past the Palace Pier and Brighton Marina.

For a truly accessible day out, especially if you have bikes, scooters, or pushchairs, the Undercliff Walk is a great option. This 3-mile (5 km) uninterrupted walkway runs from Brighton Marina to Saltdean, offering a flat, wide surface right under the chalk cliffs. It’s a fantastic alternative to the clifftop route. You can easily access the Undercliff Walk via ramps at the east end of Madeira Drive (near the Asda car park), opposite Roedean Café, at Rottingdean High Street, or near Saltdean Lido. There are public toilets and cafes along the way at Ovingdean Gap, Rottingdean, and Saltdean, making it easy to stop for a break.

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike with dramatic views, head east on the path towards Eastbourne. This route takes you past Newhaven Fort and eventually leads to the famous chalk cliffs of Seven Sisters and Beachy Head. Remember that the clifftop paths here are exposed and undulating, so they require sturdy footwear and good weather. Whether you choose a gentle stroll on the accessible Undercliff Walk or plan a longer trip to explore the newly opened western section, the completion of this 210-mile route means there are now more ways than ever to enjoy the stunning Sussex coastline.