Cuckoo Trail
Hailsham, East Sussex
An 11-mile traffic-free path along the old Cuckoo Line railway from Polegate to Heathfield, with an extension south towards Eastbourne. It is popular with walkers, cyclists and riders, and passes through Hailsham, Hellingly and Horam.
Highlights
- Traffic-free route on part of National Cycle Network Route 21
- Wildlife sculpture trail north of Hellingly
- Benches carved from fallen trees
- Picnic tables and bike racks along the way
Good to know
- Cyclists should carry a bell and give way to walkers and horses
- Keep dogs under control and clear up after them
- Railway stations at Polegate and Hampden Park
Getting there
Cuckoo Trail, Former railway line from Polegate to Heathfield, East Sussex, BN26 5SDParking: Free car parks at Heathfield, Horam, Hellingly and Hailsham, and on-street parking at Polegate and Hampden Park.
Get directionsChecked on 15 October 2026 against wealden.gov.uk. Details change, so please confirm with the venue before you travel. How we check
Nearby
Image: The Sussex Archaeological SocietyLong Man of Wilmington
A huge chalk-outlined figure on the slopes of Windover Hill, described by the Sussex Archaeological Society as Europe's largest portrayal of the human form. Park below the hill and follow the footpaths to the base or up to the top for wide views over the Downs.
Image: Drusillas ParkDrusillas Park
A family zoo aimed at younger children, mixing animals with rides, play areas and soft play. It is one of the easiest full days out in East Sussex for families with under-10s.
Image: National TrustAlfriston Clergy House
A thatched, timber-framed Wealden hall-house built for the village priest in the early 15th century, and the first building the National Trust ever bought, in 1896. It sits beside the church on The Tye with a cottage garden looking over the Cuckmere Valley.