Firle Beacon

Content by @hoveactually_

At 217 metres, Firle Beacon is one of the highest points on the South Downs - and one of the most rewarding. On a clear day you'll see the sea to the south, the Seven Sisters cliffs to the east, and the Weald stretching out to the north. It's a proper Sussex classic, and if you haven't done it yet, this is your sign.

The route

10.26km, circular, starting and finishing in Firle village. Budget around 2 hours - a bit longer if you stop for the views (you will).

The walk climbs out of Firle past Firle Place, the Gage family's manor house dating back to the 15th century, before joining the South Downs Way up to the Beacon itself. It's a proper climb — 255m of elevation gain - but nothing technical, just a steady pull uphill.

Start here

Parking is at the northern end of the village, near The Ram Inn. Note: don't put "Firle Beacon" straight into your sat nav - it can try to route you along farm tracks. Head for Firle village itself.

What you'll pass

The route takes you along the ridge of the South Downs Way, past a distinctive tower built in 1819 as a gamekeeper's lookout, and through open chalk grassland that's part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Keep an eye out for Exmoor ponies grazing the escarpment - they're often out here.

The legend

Local folklore has it that Firle Beacon is the burial site of a giant, killed in a boulder-throwing feud with a rival giant on nearby Windover Hill. Make of that what you will - either way, it's a fitting bit of drama for a hill this dramatic.

Refuel

Back in the village, The Ram Inn is the obvious stop — proper pub, popular outdoor area out front. If you want something simpler, Firle also has a well-stocked village shop.

Good to know

• Dog friendly, but keep leads on near livestock - cattle and sheep graze parts of the route.

• Can get muddy in winter - proper footwear recommended.

• Windy up top, even on calm days. Bring a layer.