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The Serpent Trail

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Woodland, Moorland, Valley

Walking, Birdwatching, Wildlife Watching

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Colin Smith via Geograph.org.uk

The Serpent Trail is a long-distance walking route of about 64 miles that winds across the greensand heaths of the western Weald between Haslemere and Petersfield, waymarked with a snake motif. This point is on Black Down, the trail's high point at 280 metres and the highest hill in Sussex, a heathe...

9

Parking nearby

0

Food Spots nearby

1

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

3 day, 6 overnight

Oak Yurt

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is The Serpent Trail?
Deep woods and rolling greensand hills within the South Downs National Park contain this winding path. Walkers trace the long corridor through several southern counties without needing to navigate busy main roads.

What type of place is The Serpent Trail?
The Serpent Trail is a long-distance footpath running through the South Downs National Park in Southern England.

When is the best time to visit The Serpent Trail?
Late summer brings the most spectacular scenery because the expansive heathland bursts into full purple bloom. Spring and autumn also offer excellent walking conditions with milder weather and changing woodland colours.

What can you do at The Serpent Trail?
Hiking along the sandy tracks allows you to spot rare heathland birds and beautiful butterflies in their natural habitat. People also enjoy capturing photographs of the pine forests and sun-dappled clearings.

How long should I spend at The Serpent Trail?
Completing the entire sixty-four miles requires a multi-day backpacking trip spanning a few consecutive days. Casual walkers can easily choose a shorter section for a rewarding morning or afternoon ramble.

Where do I park at The Serpent Trail?
Vehicles can use nine available spaces nearby, providing three day and six overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near The Serpent Trail?
There are no food spots recorded immediately near The Serpent Trail, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

Where can I stay near The Serpent Trail?
Oak Yurt provides a place to stay nearby, offering one option in the vicinity. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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