Cuckoo Trail

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From - to: Polegate (nr Eastbourne) to Heathfield

Type: Traffic-free

Surface: Tarmac and fine gravel

National Cycle Network route number:   National Route 21 sign


The Cuckoo Trail

The Cuckoo Trail is one of the most popular family cycle rides in the South East and gained its name from an old Sussex tradition of releasing a cuckoo at the Heathfield Fair.

Once a railway line, this trail offers a superb, peaceful, traffic-free route ideal for cyclists and walkers of all ages.

Horse riding is also permitted along some rural sections of the route. There is a gentle 122m (400ft) climb over 11 miles (17.5km) from Polegate to Heathfield.

The trail runs through a mixture of broadleaf woodland, open grassland, arable farmland, and pasture with verges often thick with seasonal wildflowers like vetch and willowherb. Along the way are dramatic sculptures and plenty of carved wooden seats to stop and take in your surroundings.

Further information is available on the East Sussex County Council website. The Cuckoo Trail Ranger can be contacted on tel 01273 481637.

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