Discover The Best Walks In and Around Haywards Heath

Whether you’re an enthusiastic hiker, a casual stroller, or simply looking for scenic dog walks in Haywards Heath, this charming town in West Sussex has something for everyone. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the High Weald National Landscape, Haywards Heath is the perfect base for countryside adventures without heading too far from home.

From the iconic Haywards Heath viaduct walk with its picture-perfect arches, to ancient woodland trails and dog-friendly parks, there's no shortage of green spaces to explore. Here are the very best local walks to inspire your next outing. 

Just a short distance from the town centre, Borde Hill Garden is set within 383 acres of lush green countryside. Stretch your legs on gentle sloping paths, spot rare plants with botanical importance and soak up the beauty of nature at this historical site. 

The Mansion House at the centre of the estate is Grade II listed and has been carefully preserved through history by five generations of the Stephenson Clarke family. The garden and grounds boast kids’ trails, an adventure playground, tranquil lakes and a cafe so you can stop for refreshments along the way. A walk at Borde Hill Garden is typically more of a leisurely activity than a strenuous hike.

Want to bring your four-legged friend? Dog walkers are encouraged to visit the garden and will even receive a free dog treat on arrival.

For a short but scenic Haywards Heath walk, this 1.25-mile trail starts and ends at the popular Beech Hurst Gardens. You’ll wander through woodland, across a railway bridge, past the War Memorial and the James Bradford Almshouses. This walk also offers the opportunity to admire the ornamental flowerbeds at Muster Green. 

Extend your walk by exploring Beech Hurst Gardens and the surrounding views of the South Downs.

Looking for something just outside of Haywards Heath? Ditchling Common Country Park is a 7-minute drive from the town centre and covers 188 acres. The park has an extensive network of woodland paths and grassland, so you can walk for as long or as little as you choose. 

Bluebells can be seen spread across the woodland floor in the spring, and from spring to autumn, you may also spot cattle grazing in fenced fields at the park. 

Dogs are welcome but must be kept under control so as not to disturb the surrounding nature. 

For a more challenging walk, the High Weald Landscape Trail is an iconic 90-mile route across the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. To complete the route in full, you could expect the walk to take approximately seven days. 

There are many shorter sections of the walk that can be enjoyed individually, many of which typically take around 7 hours to complete. The Haywards Heath to East Grinstead route is popular, with a length of 31.5 km.

No list of the best Haywards Heath walks would be complete without mentioning the iconic Ouse Valley Viaduct Walk, also referred to as The Haywards Heath Viaduct Walk. Famous for its breathtaking architecture and sweeping countryside views, this route is a must for both visitors and locals. 

The Haywards Heath Viaduct Walk is also perfect for dog walkers and photographers, thanks to its peaceful rural surroundings. Depending on the route you take, this walk can take the best part of a day.

Exploring the scenic countryside, heading out for a peaceful stroll below the viaduct, or enjoying one of the many dog walks in Haywards Heath can be a great way to unwind and stay active. Here are our top tips to help you make the most of your time outdoors:

1. Plan your route: Haywards Heath has a wide range of walking routes, from short woodland trails to longer, more adventurous hikes. Be sure to choose a route that suits your abilities and ensure you have a map on hand to guide you. 

2. Check for seasonal highlights: Familiar routes can feel fresh and exciting if you plan to visit at different times of the year. The orange hues of the trees during the autumn months are striking in contrast to the vibrant spring bluebells. 

3. Choose suitable clothing and footwear: There’s nothing worse than uncomfortable shoes rubbing a blister behind your ankle, or walking in damp clothes because you were caught in the rain without a mac. Prepare for all eventualities, particularly if you are choosing a more advanced trail. 

Don’t forget to clean and dry your walking gear after each walk. If you’re short on space at home, our storage facility in Haywards Heath offers a great solution for keeping everything organised, safe and ready for your next adventure. 

Want to explore more of scenic Sussex? There are many picturesque Horsham summer walks to enjoy.