6k Run Southwick: Scenic Ascent to Southwick Hill

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 5.6km loop offers a fantastic introduction to the dramatic elevation of the South Downs, starting from the Quayside Recreation Ground. As a Category 3 hilly route, runners will face a steady climb up Southwick Hill, gaining 87m of ascent primarily on the out-and-back spur. The terrain is a mix of approximately 25% paved surfaces and natural trails, making it an ideal choice for road runners looking to transition into light trail running or for seasoned hill-repeat enthusiasts. Expect breathtaking views over the English Channel and Shoreham Harbour as you reach the summit before enjoying a fast, descending finish through the tranquil grounds near Southwick Cemetery.

Steeped in local history, Southwick Hill is more than just a challenging gradient; it is the site of a buried Iron Age hillfort and was a vital location for the Admiralty’s intelligence-gathering during World War II. Today, this area serves as a gateway to the South Downs National Park, a landscape of rolling chalk hills that has inspired poets and athletes alike for centuries. As you navigate the trails, you’ll pass through the "Old Southwick" area, where the juxtaposition of the ancient downland and the busy working port below provides one of the most unique coastal running backdrops in West Sussex.