Discover the Cuckoo Trail: A Scenic Sussex Adventure for All Ages
Nestled in the heart of East Sussex, the Cuckoo Trail is a 14-mile green corridor that weaves through the picturesque countryside, offering a peaceful escape for walkers, cyclists, families and nature lovers alike. Once part of the old railway line, this traffic-free trail is now a thriving haven for wildlife, creativity, and community connection. The 11 mile trail runs from Polegate to Heathfield and has a 3 mile extension onwards to Shinewater Park, Eastbourne.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a family bike ride, or a deeper dive into local nature and heritage, the Cuckoo Trail has something for everyone. The route is mostly flat and well-surfaced, making it accessible for all abilities, including wheelchair users and pushchairs. You can join the Cuckoo Trail at Heathfield, Horam, Hellingly, Hailsham, Polegate and Hampden Park, which all have railway stations close by, or at various other points along the old rail track.
For cyclists, the Cuckoo Trail forms part of National Cycle Path 21
For more information about the wildlife you can spot, nature and places/attractions that can be found along the Trail view the Cuckoo Trail leaflet by Explore Wealden or Watch the Cuckoo Trail video.
Step Into the Story: The Cuckoo Trail Augmented Reality Experience
Get ready for a whole new way to explore the Cuckoo Trail with our exciting Augmented Reality (AR) Trail. This interactive experience invites visitors (of all ages!) to discover five unique story stops along the route, each marked by a QR code. Simply scan the code with your phone (no app download or sign-up required), and meet a cast of animated animal characters brought to life in AR.
Each character shares a riddle to solve, and collecting all five digital stamps unlocks a special puzzle pack at the end. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with your new AR friends along the way!
This fun, family-friendly trail blends outdoor adventure with digital discovery—perfect for curious minds and tech-savvy explorers. For full details visit the Cuckoo AR page.
A Journey Through Time: The Cuckoo Trail
The Cuckoo Trail follows the route of the former Polegate to Eridge railway and opened in 1880, nicknamed the “Cuckoo Line” after the tradition of hearing the first cuckoo of spring at Heathfield Fair. As transport grew in popularity during the 1950s, the railway saw a decline in us and was eventually closed in the 1960s and the tracks removed.
Benches have been erected along the Trail, many carved from fallen trees by local craftsmen. Picnic tables and bike racks are located at intervals along the Trail, but you are welcome to picnic where you like en-route. Sculpted gateways to the Trail are provided at the access points between Hailsham and Polegate, whilst a Wildlife Sculpture Trail is laid out for a mile north of Hellingly.
Getting to the Cuckoo Trail
By Train: There are stations at Polegate and Hampden Park.
By Bus: There are several bus services operated by Eastbourne Buses/Stagecoach linking the Cuckoo Trail to Polegate, Hailsham, Hellingly, Horam, Heathfield and surrounding areas.
By Car: There are free car parks at Heathfield, Horam, Hellingly and Hailsham and on-street parking at Polegate and Hampden Park.
