This a testing run of around 16 miles that takes you out along the Ouse riverbank to Itford Farm, then up onto the Downs before returning to Seaford. The first half of the route is fairly flat, while the the second half contains a steep climb, before taking you over the rolling slopes of the South Downs Way.
The run is broken down into four stages :-
Stage 1 – Leisure Centre to Newhaven
Leaving from the Leisure Centre run west along Sutton Road towards town centre. Just before rail station bear left Into Dane Road and at end turn right onto prom. Continue running west along prom, taking the old disused rail track at end past Yacht Club, follow this track through Tidemills. until you come to outskirts of industrial estate. Turn right here and take footpath along edge of fence, crossing bridge over river. Turn left at end and cross rail bridge, then follow further path to Beach Rd. At end of road turn left over level crossing and. passing over swing bridge, bear right on North Way. Just after subway take short flight of steps into Elphick Rd. Run to end and junction with Lewes Rd. Turn right and head out of Newhaven on the C7, crossing to left hand pavement opposite the site of the old Refuse Tip.
Stage 2 – Newhaven to Itford Hill
From the Tip run along the C7 (Lewes Rd) towards Piddinghoe. keeping on the lefthand pavement. Once through Piddinghoe the path eventually runs out. Cross to right side of road and continue for 500 metres until stile opposite Chapel Barn farm. (Caution Traffic!) Cross stile and bear left along Ouse riverbank, eventually arriving at Southease Bridge. Go through gate and turn right, crossing bridge and Southease level crossing to arrive at Itford Farm. (There is a water tap here if you need it).Follow signs back down track from tap to take you over hump bridge across the main road and then head up chalky track on the South Downs Way. Follow this track upwards, passing through a gate and curving round to the left. When track forks take left fork (signposted SDW) and continue up to top of Itford Hill.
Stage 3 – Itford Hill to Fiveways
From the top of Itford Hill continue following the South Downs Way along the ridge, passing several gates and the masts at Firle. to arrive at Firle Car Park. At the east end of the car park go through gate continuing on the SDW as It sweeps up. down and around to the right and Bo Peep. As you go through the gate approaching this point, bear right on path curving to south. Go through gate and run south for just over two miles, passing through 3 gates, 300 metres after the last gate the path forks. You have arrived at Fiveways.
Stage 4 – Fiveways to Leisure Centre
At Fiveways fork keep to left and stay on the main track. You should now have the golf course on your right. Continue all the way down this path to Alfriston Road. Turn right and run along road returning to Leisure Centre.