Alfriston to Exceat
Distance: 6.5 miles – 3 miles SDW
Leaving Alfriston, the SDW (and Vanguard Way) follow the east bank of the pretty Cuckmere river. The going is easy over pasture dotted with walking beef steaks. Just before a bridge, the path diverts through the hamlet of Litlington, then over farmland with glorious views of the Cuckmere Valley and the verdant Friston Forest. Dropping down past Charleston Manor it's a woodland walk to Westdean and over to Exceat (toilets at the visitor centre). A short walk along Litlington Road takes you to a footpath that leads left back to the river. The iconic White Horse now stands proud above. Cuckmere's meandering water guides you home.