In and around Sussex
Looking to wander beyond Brighton? Whether you’re local or just visiting for the day, we’ve sniffed out some of the best dog-friendly adventures across Sussex — starting with one of Lily’s favourites.
Friston Forest
Just outside Eastbourne and nestled next to the Seven Sisters Country Park, Friston Forest is a tail-wagging dream for adventurous pups and their humans.
Why We Love It:
This is one of Lily’s top picks — with open trails, shady woodland paths, and plenty of space to sniff, explore, and stretch those legs. It’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for a picnic stop too.
Top Tips:
• Bring water for your pup (especially in warmer months — it can get toasty under the trees!)
• Don’t forget poo bags and maybe a picnic for the humans
• If your dog loves space, this spot is pawsitively perfect
Getting There:
• By car: Around 1 hour 15 mins from Brighton (depending on traffic). There’s parking available — bring some coins or use the RingGo app just in case.
• By train: Catch the train to Eastbourne, then hop on a bus or taxi to the forest.
• By bus: Around 1 hour 35 mins from Brighton. Once off the bus, it’s a short walk down Litlington Road.
Find out more about Friston Forest here
Been there already?
Tag your pup’s adventures with #WoofAndExplore so we can feature your favourite finds!
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
Walk Options
We recommend the short circular trail for a first visit:
- Distance: approx. 2 miles (easy, flat terrain)
- Surface: firm gravel — wheelchair & pushchair accessible
- Highlights: sea views, open shingle landscape, wildflowers in spring/summer
Longer walks are available — download the route map beforehand or check the signs onsite.
A peaceful coastal walk full of wildlife, sea air, and wide open space.
Just outside the historic town of Rye, this nature reserve is a wonderful day out for dogs and their humans — whether you're after a relaxing stroll or a bit of wildlife spotting. We took Lily on the short circular trail (around 2 miles), and she loved every second — sniffing the breeze, padding along the gravel paths, and soaking up the salty sea air.
Why We Love It
- Flat, peaceful, and packed with interesting sights — from old fishing huts and wildflowers to seabirds and shingle beaches.
- Open space = calm vibes. Great for nervous or older pups.
- One of the most accessible dog walks we’ve found in Sussex.
Getting There
By Car
- 1 hr 30 mins from Brighton
- Parking available in Rye Harbour village (voluntary donation)
By Train
- From Brighton: change at Hastings or Ashford
- From London: change at Ashford Int’l → Rye Station
- Then: short taxi or 25–30 min walk from station to reserve
By Taxi
- ~10 mins from Rye Station to entrance
Top Tips
- Download the walking map before you go → sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk
- Bring a lead, water, and snacks for your pup
- Layers are your friend — even sunny days can get windy
Woof & Explore Says...
Rye Harbour is the perfect slow adventure spot. Wildlife, space to roam, and sea breeze — it’s a gentle reset for you and your four-legged explorer.
Been there? Tag us using #WoofAndExplore — we’d love to feature your pup!
Wildlife to Spot
- Skylarks, oystercatchers, little egrets
- Wildflowers including rare Stinking Hawksbeard
Dog-Friendly Tips
- Dogs are welcome but must be on lead in most areas
- Dog bins available throughout the reserve
- Bring water + a towel — can be breezy or muddy depending on the season
Discovery Centre & Café
- Gift shop, exhibitions, and accessible toilets
- Lime Kiln Café (outdoor dog-friendly seating)
- Perfect post-walk snack stop with a view
Rye
Scenic Sniffs & Nature Adventures
- Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
Wide open skies, coastal breezes, and a trail full of exciting sniffs! This peaceful reserve is perfect for a mindful wander — just keep pups on leads in some areas to protect local wildlife. (Check out our full guide for trail tips.)
- Camber Sands
Golden dunes and zoomie-friendly space galore! While there are some lead rules during peak summer, dogs can still enjoy off-lead freedom in designated areas. Best visited early or off-season for max tail wags.
- Peasmarsh Circular Walk
Around 4 miles of gentle fields and woodland paths — and the best bit? It starts and ends at The Cock Inn, a dog-friendly pub where muddy paws are welcome.
Ruff Guide: Dog-Friendly Days Out in Rye
Tails up for Rye! This charming East Sussex town is bursting with cobbled streets, sea air, and plenty of pup-welcoming spots. Whether your four-legged explorer loves sandy paws, sniff-worthy trails, or curling up in a cosy café, Rye’s got you both covered.
Getting There
By Car
- 1 hr 30 mins from Brighton
- Parking available in Rye
By Train
- From Brighton: change at Hastings or Ashford
- From London: change at Ashford Int’l → Rye Station
Top Tips
Woof & Explore Says...
Rye gets busy on sunny weekends — head out early for quieter sniffing and snag the best café seats!
Been there? Tag us using #WoofAndExplore — we’d love to feature your pup!
Pup-Approved Attractions
- Rye Heritage Centre
Sniff out the town’s story together — yep, your dog can come too! Explore the Town Model and soak up Rye’s rich history with your pup at your side.
- The Medieval Town of Rye
Meander through Mermaid Street’s picture-perfect charm, stop off at indie shops and cafés (many welcome dogs with open arms), and enjoy a leisurely stroll through one of England’s prettiest market towns.
Dog-Friendly Pubs, Cafes, Bars & Restaurants
The Fig
Where can pups perch? Inside — it’s snug, but they’re welcome!
Tucked away in the heart of Rye, The Fig is a laid-back gem with a menu that’s as fresh as it is flavour-packed. Whether you’re fuelling up after a sandy stroll or settling in for a cosy evening, this stylish café-restaurant has something for every appetite (and plenty of head scratches for well-behaved pups).
Menu Highlights:
Brunch favourites like waffles and good coffee, vibrant lunchtime tacos and salads, and evening small plates made for sharing — think roasted potatoes, seasonal veg, and indulgent puds. Sip on smoothies, soft drinks, or something stronger from their alcohol selection.
A paws-itively great spot for a post-walk treat or a chilled-out dinner with your four-legged foodie.
Café on the Quay
Where can pups perch? Inside (it’s cosy!) and outside with a view
Perched right by the water, Café on the Quay is a proper little pit stop for hungry humans and tail-wagging sidekicks. Expect a warm welcome, homemade goodies, and a fab spot to watch the boats bob while your pup enjoys a post-walk nap.
Menu Highlights:
Start the day with a hearty breakfast or a bacon roll to-go, swing by for jacket potatoes, sandwiches, or homemade cakes that smell as good as they taste. Hot drinks, sweet treats, and riverside views? Yes please.
A laid-back local gem for grab-and-go munchies or a relaxed bite with your four-legged foodie in tow.
Cafes
- The Old Grain Store
- Mermaid Street Cafe
- Ropewalk Cafe
- Bosun’s Bite
- Quayside kitchen
Pubs
- The Standard Inn
- The Ship Inn
- Rye Waterworks Micropub
- Old Bell Rye
- The Globe Inn Marsh
- Clinique ports
Restaurants
- Hoof, Rye
- The Kings Head Inn
Whitehouse Rye
Where can pups perch? Inside (plenty of space for big and small pups!) and outside too
Stylish, spacious, and seriously tasty — Whitehouse Rye is a must-stop for brunch lovers and cake fans alike. Whether you’re starting the day with a flat white and fluffy pancakes or winding down with a glass of something chilled, this bright and modern spot has all the relaxed vibes (and room for waggy tails!).
Menu Highlights:
All-day brunch done right — think avo toast, eggs every way, and homemade cakes that are worth sitting for. Plus, a great selection of hot and cold drinks, with boozy options if you’re making it a leisurely one.
A welcoming pit stop for paws and people, right in the heart of Rye.