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Start in the free Cuckoo Trail car park on Station Road, Hellingly, BN27 4EU. Use the graded link from the back of the car park to join the trail and turn north towards Horam. This return walk follows the former railway through a long green corridor, with a gentle climb on the outward leg and the same route back.
Pass beneath the Station Road bridge beside the old Hellingly station. The station building is a private home, so view it from the public trail. Cross Mill Lane carefully, then continue over the River Cuckmere. Stay on the signed Cuckoo Trail through the woodland and open countryside, passing the brick railway bridges and the sculpture stretch north of Hellingly. Ignore field paths and the separate horse-route branches.
At Horam, follow the signed trail through its short link at Downline Close to the former station platform and nameboard. This is the turning point; retrace the trail to Hellingly and take the same graded link into the car park. The walk does not continue to Heathfield or its closed tunnel.
Allow about 3 hours 15 minutes for roughly 12 km, including modest pauses. The main trail is sealed and has gentle railway gradients, but wet leaves can be slippery and the Mill Lane crossing needs attention. This is a shared route with cyclists and, on this section, horses. Keep dogs close and leave space for others. Benches and picnic places are available along the trail; bring water and check refreshments separately. Follow current signs at the car park and any temporary notices on the trail.
Route and access information checked against Wealden District Council's Cuckoo Trail leaflet, East Sussex County Council's trail and current closure pages, and Hellingly Parish Council parking information.
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