Hellingly Puzzle Trail

The Hellingly Puzzle Trail is a self-guided walk through the countryside around Hailsham where you crack cryptic clues to navigate a set route. It's the sort of thing that works brilliantly if you're the type who enjoys a good riddle, less so if you just want a straightforward ramble.

The trail takes you through farmland and local landmarks, with puzzles tied to specific locations along the way. You're essentially doing orienteering meets escape room, which means it demands proper attention - no zoning out and letting your legs do the work. Some people find it genuinely clever; others find it a bit more faffing than fun. Children who like solving things tend to get into it, though younger kids might need help with some of the wordplay.

The beauty of basing yourself at one of the nearby campsites - Fontmills Farm or Dernwood Farm both rate extremely well - is that you've got a proper activity to break up a camping week without driving anywhere. Horam Manor Country Park is close enough too if you want to combine this with other walks in the area.

Timing-wise, allow a couple of hours depending on how quickly you solve each puzzle and how lost you get. It's free to do, which is worth knowing, though you'll need to find the trail details locally - Hailsham tourist information or the local camping site staff should point you right. Go on a dry day; muddy fields and puzzle sheets don't mix well.