The heart of the Downs - Goring-by-Sea to Amberley
A moderate walk (low hills and fells (below 600m)) in national park South Downs starting and finishing in West Sussex, England, about 13.10km (8.14 mi) long with an estimated walking time of about 4:00h. It is unsuitable for families with children, prams & pushchairs, wheelchairs.
Elevation Profile
Ascent
128m (419ft)
Descent
115m (377ft)
Max. Elevation
140m (459ft)
Altitude Gain & Loss
243m (796ft)
Start
Goring-by-Sea station
End
Amberley station
Distance
13.10km
(8.14mi)
(8.14mi)
Duration
~4:00h
Difficulty
Moderate
Ordnance Survey Map
This walk offers the best of the Downs - valleys, woodland, a walk along the famous route and a classic Sussex village to finish in. The walk can be done in either direction, but starting from Goring means you finish in Amberley, which has a nice pub and tea shop etc in case you need to wait. You also save the walk along the Downs to last!
Walk Functions
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Waypoints
OS Grid TQ104032
Start of the walk. Follow the footpath heading West along the railway line and pick up the bridleway to Highdown Hill. Take the path through Highdown Copse towards the A27 (boo!)
OS Grid TQ085055
Follow the footpath under the A27and enjoy the fact that you have now left traffic behind for the day. The path crosses Highdown Hill, owned by the National Trust, and continues north.
About 2.98 km (~1.85 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ074083
Follow the path up through the woodland of Michelgrove Park. Head north along the bridleway that crosses the Monarch's Way towards Barpham Hill.
About 3.01 km (~1.87 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ066094
Head over Barpham Hill and pick up one of the paths or bridleways heading North towards the South Downs Way. There are several options, but aim for the Tumuli just East of Springhead Hill.
About 1.36 km (~0.85 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ033125
As you follow the South Downs Way heading West, you reach the gap in the hills, where Amberley lies next to the River Arun. The village of Amberley makes a great way to end the walk, as there are plenty of attractions, but note that the station is about 20 minutes walk from the village.
About 4.52 km (~2.81 miles) from 
Amberley StationOS Grid TQ027118
Head to Amberley Station for the train home. There is also a pub here if you have worked up a thirst! For a longer day out, you can follow the footpath along the River Arun all the way to Arundel (see Car-Free Walk 'Arun Valley Amble')
About 0.92 km (~0.57 miles) from 
