If you’re looking for a dog-friendly walk near Petworth that ends somewhere worth the effort, you’re in the right place. Lickfold sits right in the heart of the West Sussex countryside, surrounded by woodland, farmland and quiet footpaths, with the Three Horseshoes Inn waiting at the end of it.
Why Lickfold is a Dog Walker’s Sweet Spot
Tucked between Petworth, Midhurst and the High Weald, this corner of West Sussex is made for walking. Rolling fields, ancient woodland and quiet lanes mean you can find a route to suit any dog – from a gentle half-hour leg-stretch to a proper half-day ramble – without ever straying far from a warm welcome at the end.
Our Favourite Route: The Lurgashall & Lickfold Loop
For a proper countryside walk that ends right at our door, this circular route starting in the neighbouring village of Lurgashall is hard to beat – 5½ miles of easy, well-marked, countryside walking through farmland, woodland and quiet meadows.
At a glance:
- Distance: 5½ miles (9km) – easy walking, roughly 2.5/3 hours at a relaxed pace
- Start: Lurgashall village green car park, GU28 9ET (by the church and village shop)
- Terrain: Gentle field paths, some woodland tracks, a number of stiles and gates
- Good to know: A few stiles along the way, so best suited to dogs who can manage a hop over. Don’t worry because we welcome dogs at the finish.
The route in brief:
- From Lurgashall’s green, the path heads out across open farmland, passing the pretty Mill Pond and the old buildings of Mill Farm – keep an eye out for free-range piglets here.
- From there, a series of field paths and gentle gaps in the hedgerows lead you across open countryside, with views out towards Blackdown along the way.
- The walk reaches its midpoint right at our front door -the perfect spot to pause, warm up by the fire, and refuel before the second half.
- From here, the route continues past Lickfold House and through quiet woodland and pasture, eventually joining the edge of the Blackdown Park Estate (with the option of a detour to the Blackdown Distillery for those who fancy it).
- The final stretch winds through peaceful woodland and a string of orchard meadows, with the spire of St Laurence Church guiding you back into Lurgashall to complete the loop.
A note on terrain:
There are nettles in places, so we’d skip the shorts, and the route can be muddy after rain – boots are your friend. The full step-by-step route (with map) is available as a pdf via Fancy Free Walks, which is where we’d recommend downloading a copy before you set off.
Short on Time? Try the Mini Version
If three hours is more than you’ve got, you can still enjoy a slice of this route starting and finishing right at our door:
From the pub, follow the lane towards Fernhurst, passing the old barns of Gentils Farm and on to Lickfold House, continuing as far as Hoewyck Farm before turning back the way you came.
It’s a flat, easy and stile-free and is a gentle 45 minutes to an hour stroll (roughly 2 ½ miles) with views towards Blackdown along the way. A lovely option for a quick leg-stretch before lunch or a pint.
Further Afield: Ebernoe Common and The Mens
If you fancy venturing a little further, two of the loveliest dog-friendly spots in the area are just a short drive from Lickfold.
Ebernoe Common, a Sussex Wildlife Trust reserve north of Petworth, is a beautiful spot to wander through ancient woodland with your dog off-lead on the quieter paths.
The Mens, also near Petworth, is one of the largest semi-natural woodlands in the South East – peaceful, shaded, and full of veteran beech trees.
Both make for a longer day out, with the Three Horseshoes Inn being the perfect final stop on the way home.
What’s Waiting for You When You Arrive
Dogs are part of the family here, not an afterthought. Whatever the weather’s done to you both, you’ll find:
- Water bowls and a few treats at the door.
- Cosy corners by the fire to dry off and warm up.
- A genuinely warm welcome from our team – no apologetic looks and no being tucked away in a corner!
Whether it’s a quick local loop or a longer countryside walk, our bar is the perfect place to refresh and relax… after all, you’ve earned it!
Best Time of Year to Walk This Route
Every season has its charm here. Spring brings bluebells through the woodland and the first proper warmth back in the garden afterwards. Summer is golden fields and long evenings, perfect for arriving at a cold pint in the sunshine. Autumn turns the whole route into amber and rust, with the fire calling that bit louder by the time you’re back. And winter – frosty mornings, muddy boots, and nothing quite like the first sip of something warming once you’re through the door.
Plan Your Visit
Check our opening hours before you set off, and if you’re making a day of it, book a table so there’s a spot waiting for you and your dog when you get back.
