Kithurst Loop
A circular walk in the heart of the South Downs National park. Well-marked tracks and footpaths and splendid views throughout. For a similar but longer version of this walk, see our 'Kithurst Hill' route.
Map & Info
Quick Details
Start / finish
Kithurst Hill car park (free)
Distance / ascent / time est.
3.2 miles / 361ft / 1-2hrs
Surface / terrain
Footpaths & tracks / hilly
Stiles / road crossings
No stiles / no road crossings
Other info
N / A
Blue square = 1km sq
Written Directions
+ use the images below for additional guidance!
The best way to get to the car park is via Arundel / A284 / B2139. This is a picturesque drive, taking you over the River Arun and past country pubs, tea rooms and Amberley Museum. Amberley itself is a pretty village well worth a visit. The road up to the car park is a right turn about a mile from the Rackham turn off - it's not very well signposted so it's a good idea to use a sat nav if it's your first time going up there.
After parking, cross over the main track (the South Downs Way) and go through the gate (1), heading straight up across and over the field. You'll pass a water tank on the left.
Just over the brow of the hill you'll see a finger post - turn right here (2), going through the copse. After a short distance you'll emerge into another field (3).
Walk across this field (4) - if it's a clear day you should be able to make out Arundel Castle in the distance - and pass through the hedge about halfway along.
When you reach the edge of the field turn left towards the copse (5) and then right (5a) to skirt the trees. This will bring you into a smaller field. Walk straight across (5b) towards the gate in the edge.
Once through the gate turn right (6) and follow the path steadily uphill (6a) until you reach a gravelly track, and turn right onto it (7). There are great views at various points and plenty of blackberries in autumn.
Follow the track until it reaches another track (South Downs Way) and turn right onto it, passing through a copse (8). This track (8a) will take you back to the car park, which will be on the left.
Photographic Directions
(Hover & use arrows to scroll)