West Hoathly Walks
This walk begins in the heart of West Hoathly, a quaint village nestled in the rolling countryside of West Sussex, and takes in a scenic route that meanders through a mix of farmland, woodland, and open hillsides. The route follows the High Weald Landscape Trail to Weir Wood Reservoir where there are some nice waterside trails. The route offers clear views of gently undulating fields and historic rural architecture that reflects the area’s long history.
As you move away from the village centre, the terrain opens up to reveal expansive vistas of the surrounding countryside, with the distant silhouettes of ancient churches and the soft outlines of the South Downs providing a picturesque backdrop, particularly in the early morning light and at sunset.
The natural environment along the walk is characterised by a diverse assemblage of flora and fauna. The countryside around West Hoathly is dotted with patches of native deciduous woodland, featuring species such as oak, beech, and hornbeam, while the open fields and hedgerows support seasonal wildflowers including bluebells, primroses, and wild garlic in spring, with summer bringing buttercups and daisies into full bloom. This variety of habitats also attracts a range of wildlife; birdwatchers may delight in spotting species such as European robins, blue tits, and, on occasion, peregrine falcons soaring above, while local mammals like foxes and badgers are often observed in the quieter hours of the day. Insects abound as well, with bees, butterflies, and various beetles contributing to the vibrant ecosystem that characterises the area.
West Hoathly Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
West Hoathly Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
West Hoathly OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
West Hoathly Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Walks near West Hoathly
- Wakehurst Place - Located in Haywards Heath, Wakehurst is the country estate of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
- High Weald Landscape Trail - Explore the High Weald AONB on this fabulous 90 mile walk that links the ridge-top villages and historic gardens for which the area is famous
- Weir Wood Reservoir - This 280 acre reservoir has a super circular walking path to try
- Standen House - Explore the gardens, parkland and woodland surrounding this 19th century National Trust house near East Grinstead
- Forest Way - This cycling and walking route runs from East Grinstead to Groombridge following National Cycle Route 21 along a flat tree lined path
- Sussex Border Path - A fabulous long distance walk following the Sussex county border from Thorney Island in West Sussex to Rye in East Sussex
- Forest Row - This large East Sussex based village is in a good spot for exploring the countryside and woodland of the High Weald
- Ashdown Forest - Explore the 'home' of Winnie-the-Pooh in this large area of woodland and heathland near Crowborough
- Ashurst Wood - This Sussex based village has some nice trails through the surrounding woodland and countryside of the High Weald AONB.
Photos
North Lane, West Hoathly. West Hoathly is a historic village with roots that extend back several centuries. The village is centred around the parish church of St Mary the Virgin, which stands as a testament to its rich ecclesiastical heritage. This church, with origins in the medieval period, has been modified and restored over time, reflecting the evolving architectural styles and needs of its community. Its stone construction, modest tower, and enduring presence not only serve as a focal point for worship but also as a living reminder of the village's long history and the many generations that have called West Hoathly home.
Beyond its notable church, West Hoathly is distinguished by its charming rural character and historical continuity. The village is dotted with traditional Sussex cottages, historic inns, and working farms, all of which contribute to a landscape that has remained relatively unchanged for generations. Records show that the community has long been associated with agriculture and rural crafts, maintaining a close-knit and resilient social fabric despite the pressures of modernisation. This enduring connection to its past is further enhanced by the scenic backdrop of the South Downs, which provides not only picturesque views but also a tangible link to the natural and cultural heritage of the region.
Lower Lake, Gravetye
Track in Giffard's Wood
Field, Gravetye Estate