Walk Reports from August 2017 to October 2018

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Click Index to display the archived index of walk reports.

North Chailey – Tuesday 30 October 2018 On a fine, windy day, 15 of us parked off the A275 crossroads with the A272 in North Chailey close to “the Forget-me-not” cafe. We made our way through Chailey Common which was declared a local Nature Reserve in 1966. It has also been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest because it is the last surviving fragment of lowland heath in the Low Weald. We explored the common and some of the heavily wooded surrounding countryside, passing a few farms and fields of sheep and some marshy areas. There were some spectacular views of the surrounding countryside with not a house in sight. At one stage, we caught up with another walking group from Brighton who seemed to be going a different way. We found a sheltered area in the woods for our coffee break and then continued walking through fields and woods. We passed a prominent building which had once belonged to Chailey Heritage. Close by is a smock mill dating from about 1830 which is supposed to stand at the centre of Sussex. It may be visited on the last Sunday of each month from April to September between 3pm and 5pm. After completing our 4 and a half mile walk, we arrived back at the attractive cafe, where most of us stopped for a coffee or light lunch before returning home. The walk was led by Margaret and Jeannette.

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East Chiltington – Sunday 21 October 2018 Twenty six of us set out on a cool, but beautifully sunny autumn morning from St Michael’s Church in the grounds of Plumpton College. We headed north past Lambert Farm, where luckily for those with bovine phobia, there was no sign of the docile bull that had been on the track when the leader did his reconnoitre a couple of weeks previously! We traversed a couple of fields, scaring a large brood of pheasants as we passed. Then we entered Grannies Wood and followed a rough path, which emerged from the wood, crossing a small stream by a “bridge”, which consisted of a single, rather wobbly plank of wood. Having successfully manoeuvred our way across, albeit with a certain amount of trepidation and assistance, the going became easier, through another couple of small woods and intervening fields. Eventually we reached the track leading from Streat to Plumpton and turned right towards Plumpton, taking in magnificent views of the Downs in the morning sunshine. We took our coffee break on a grassy bank just by Plumpton Racecourse and enjoyed a bit of basking in the sun as the temperature slowly increased and we shed our outer garments. Suitably refreshed, we continued to the lovely church of East Chiltington. Here we turned southwards through ancient woodlands and past the mysterious-looking grounds of Novington Manor, then by the side of the Plumpton Stream until we emerged at Plumpton College. From here it was a short walk past the front of the college to return to the car park. The walk was led by Alan and Vivien took the pictures.				Index
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Rodmell – Wednesday 17 October 2018 It was a promising morning – blue sky, not a trace of wind and very mild. Thirteen walkers set off from the car park in Rodmell, the picturesque village at the foot of the Downs. Rodmell is particularly associated with the Bloomsbury Group as we were reminded when we walked through the village and passed Monk’s house, Virginia Woolf’s home. We soon began the steady ascent out of the village and up onto the South Downs Way, stopping to admire the long views across to Newhaven and the glittering, completely flat sea. Our route took us past Breaky Bottom, the vineyard where the grape harvest was in progress. Unfortunately a little too early in the day to stop for some wine tasting. Then continuing across fields over the open down land, with sheep as far as the eye could see and stunning views in all directions. And with the sun shining and the temperature rising, jackets and top layers were being shed – could this really be mid-October? Our half-way break, sitting on a grassy bank, proved an opportunity for a late top-up of that suntan before the cold, dark months kick in. Our return route – uphill and down dale – provided further unexpected late season delights - skylarks singing and soaring above us and a cloud of red admirals taking advantage of the profusion of ivy flowers alongside the path leading back to Rodmell. We ended our walk in the way all the best walks end – in the welcoming arms of the village pub. Sitting out on the terrace in the sun, contented after our exertions, quenching our thirst and wondering if this might be the last day of this wonderful Indian summer. The walk was led by Vivien.				Index
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Wilmington – Sunday 7 October 2018 Sunday’s walk on October 7th, led by Gill and Janet, took place on a glorious, sunny Autumn day. Twelve of us started off from the car park at Wilmington Priory and through the churchyard past an ancient propped-up yew tree which is thought to be over 1,000 years old. We crossed a couple of fields with an excellent view of the Long Man to our left and the distinctive profile of Firle Beacon ahead. We continued over several more fields, through bridle gates and over stiles, to reach the River Cuckmere and followed the left bank to the bridge at Alfriston. Here the church bells were ringing to greet us as we settled on benches to enjoy our coffee break. Suitably refreshed we set off again, past Plonk Barn, following a gradually rising footpath to meet the South Downs Way. There were fabulous views below us with Arlington reservoir in the distance. We left the SDW to bear left up a chalky path and then followed the contour round until we were directly under the Long Man up to our right. We descended slowly down to the lane and back to Wilmington car park.						Index
Newhaven to Southease Stroll – Tuesday 2 October 2018 13 members of the Group took part in a stroll from Newhaven to Southease. They walked as far as possible on the western river bank of the River Ouse and were encouraged to look for a seal by a passer-by near Piddinghoe. The Egrets Way was seen for much of the time and the party hoped it will not be too long before it is completed just north of Piddinghoe so that it is unnecessary to have to walk along the C7 road with no footpath beside it in order to continue a riverbank walk. At Southease, the party all took some refreshment at Itford Youth Hostel and whilst most then returned to Lewes by train some members decided to continue the walk along the riverbank instead.						Index
Bourton-on-the-Water Holiday Weekend – Friday 28 September to Monday 1 October 2018 At the end of September, 15 of us spent a very happy weekend at the Holiday Fellowship Hotel in the centre of Bourton-on-the-Water. On our way there, 8 of us stopped off to visit Waterperry Gardens, near Oxford, and admire their colourful herbaceous borders and sculptures. We booked a tour of the house to see the modern frescoes covering the full height of the modern part of the house. Saturday was a glorious day for walking and Sunday fine but colder. On our return journey 7 of us enjoyed a walking tour of Cirencester.						Index
Wivelsfield – Wednesday 19 September 2018 A 5.5 mile circular walk exploring ancient paths around Wivelsfield was enjoyed by eleven walkers on a fine Wednesday morning on 19 September. Starting from the green in Wivelsfield Green we walked Slugwash Lane for ¾ mile turning right onto the footpath beside Slugwash Boarding Kennels. This tranquil path took us along western edge of Strood Wood, through Ham Wood, under sizzling power lines and across Ham Bridge. The path continued around the buildings at Awbrook Farm gently rising to run in an easterly direction on high ground where we were surprised to able to see the downs in the distance. We turned south off the drive to Hooklands Farm stopping for coffee beside the first of two recently erected sturdy bridges over a now dried up stream. The path climbed gently up to High View Farm where we were greeted by a dozen beautiful horses who came to investigate us and pose for photos. The path dropped down to go around Holford Manor where we were followed by a flock of horned sheep. The way became tricky at Wivelsden Farm where we had to skirt round an impassable part of the path overgrown with stinging nettles. More horses took an interest in us as we walked through their field beside Roseland Wood. At Strood Farm we followed the drive south to join the main road through Wivelsfield Green back to the start of our walk. This excellent walk was taken from a book entitled ‘Walks Around Historic Wivelsfield’ published by the Wivelsfield History Study Group. Pictures kindly provided by Vivien, Dave was the leader of the walk.						Index
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Saturday Afternoon Tea Stroll – Saturday 1 September 2018 Sixteen members convened in the sunshine on Cliffe Bridge at the appointed hour and enjoyed a very leisurely stroll along the river bank by Tesco, then, taking the “pretty” route by Malling Community Centre, crossed Wiley’s Bridge before passing Pell’s Pool and finding their way to the café in the Needlemakers where refreshments were consumed whilst passing the time with much pleasant conversation. Hilda officiated at another successful social event for the group.						Index
Duddleswell – Sunday 26 August 2018 Thirteen of us started the walk near Duddleswell in the Ashdown Forest with a gentle climb to Friends Clump, a group of conifers planted at the top of the hill. We descended to Nutley Windmill, an attractive wooden structure, apparently the oldest working windmill in Sussex. We continued in a southerly direction with wide views of the heathlands covered in heather and the South Downs in the distance. The view is spectacular in sunshine, and even with the heavy clouds it was still rewarding. At the bottom of the hill, we decided to take an early coffee break, as rain had been forecast from 11 o’clock onwards. Right on cue, on the dot of 11, it started to spit with rain and continued as a light drizzle for the rest of the walk. After descending to cross a couple of streams, we climbed through an attractive area of heather and gorse, eventually reaching the Duddleswell teahouse. At this point we deliberated whether to curtail the walk because of the rain or to continue for the full walk. Undaunted, the majority were in favour of continuing, so we headed into thick woods, which provided welcome protection from the rain, and descended steeply along a barely discernible path to a stream. On the other side we scrambled up through the woods, with no sign of a path, till we found a gate, and eventually joined the Weald Way, From there we climbed up to another clump of conifers on Camp Hill and descended with wide views until we reached our starting point. The walk was led by Alan.						Index
Stroll Round Wild Park – Wednesday 22 August 2018 Although the distance was only two miles the 12 members who joined Janet’s stroll had some fairly steep hills. We took the 28 bus out to Coldean Lane, then crossed over into Wild Park and started off climbing through woods before coming out at the edge of an open field with a good view of the Amex stadium over to our right. We followed the field edge, ascending gently, and then made a left turn down a sandy track which opened into a wide meadow. We took our coffee break enjoying a broad panorama over Moulsecoomb and Bevendean up to the racecourse with the sea to our right. There were plenty of professional dog walkers out and about including one with a three-legged greyhound who kept up with the other dogs. Suitably refreshed, we continued around the dew pond and down through the woods until we emerged opposite the Pavilion Café with the Giant’s Foot to our left. We noted the memorial to the two little girls sadly murdered in the park back in 1986. One or two left to take the bus back to Lewes while the rest of us enjoyed coffee and refreshments on the café terrace.						Index
Burgess Hill - Sunday 12 August 2018 Undeterred by the prediction of rain, a group of 13 walkers set out from Burgess Hill for a 6-mile circular walk via Hassocks. From the southern outskirts of the town we crossed the Batchelors Farm nature reserve and followed a path across the fields with the landmark water tower on our left. Easy walking on paths and a short section of road led us to Oldland Mill, pristine after three centuries thanks to the determined efforts of volunteers. Turning westward we followed the route north of Keymer, with a brief stop for coffee, and traversed the unguarded crossing over the main railway line with some caution. Reaching the A273 we turned into the golf club and found our way to Belmont Lane and then northwards across the fields. The final stage of our walk led us past the interesting artwork commemorating John Bees-Mason, the pioneering wild-life photographer. The walk was led by Anne.						Index
Cissbury Ring Circular – Tuesday 7 August 2018 This was billed as the ‘last day of the heatwave’, the record-breaking continuous period of Mediterranean weather. And we were going to make the most of it. By now used to coping with the heat, all 10 of us who gathered for the walk were well equipped with headgear and plenty of water. We started from the car park at the end of Nepcote Lane at the foot of the Cissbury Ring. The Ring was to be the crowning glory, the last part of our walk. We set off on the bridle path heading north, and then veered off on the track leading down to No Man’s Land. Belying its ominous name, it provided us with a haven of shade where we stopped for a brief drink, many of us also sampling the delicious ripe blackberries on offer all around us. We then took a winding path alongside fields, from which startled pheasants kept exploding while others scurried ahead of us on the path, despite our assurances that we possessed no firearms and that the Glorious Twelfth was still a few days away. We stopped for a short refreshment break by a reed-filled dewpond where the water was attracting flocks of small birds but they flew in and out too fast to us to identify them. Then onto the ascending track back towards the car park. The best was yet to come as we entered the Cissbury Ring reserve and rapidly gained height till we reached the summit of the Iron Age hill fort. We were astonished at how far we could see in every direction, most remarkably to the east, Brighton and its new landmark, the i360, and beyond that the Seven Sisters as far as Beachy Head, some 35 miles away. And what’s more, we found that we had this magical place all to ourselves! A most memorable end to a lovely summer walk. The walk was led by Vivien.						Index
Slater’s Trail - Sunday 5 August 2018 Eleven of us set off in the footsteps of Eric Slater, the Sussex landscape artist. This walk was the postponed one from the previous Sunday when much needed, but heavy rain made Seaford Head too challenging to attempt. The walk is easy to navigate as an illustrated leaflet is available from Lewes Tourist Office. We set a good pace up over the cliffs and enjoyed the magnificent views of blue skies white cliffs and green downland. We crossed a field of panting sheep and turned right at South Hill Barn and down to the iconic Coast Guard cottages. We had taken several brief water stops before heading inland. We walked gently upwards; this is the scene Slater depicted in 'The Stack Yard'. Friston Forest is away to the right and South Hill Barn is in view once again. Passing Chyngton Farm we laboured up the concrete track where, being a Sunday, we were passed by numerous cars. Hedgerow blackberries sustained this ascent! We turned right through the mass of parked cars and headed, via the edge of the golf course, back to Seaford Head and its precarious descent! Arriving back at Splash Point we found parking pandemonium had broken out! There was a battle for the precious spaces we were vacating! The walk is delightful, the views beautiful - if deciding to undertake it get the leaflet from the tourist office and choose a dry day! A lovely walk led by Gill with the assistance of the whole group and a very welcome new member.						Index
Mark Cross – Wednesday 25 July 2018 An intrepid bunch of five led by Peter and Janet decided to brave the exceptionally hot conditions. They were rewarded by a very pleasant walk, much of it through dense woodland and thus mercifully cool, and a degree of luck in that most of the exposed parts of the walk were done when the sun was temporarily behind a cloud. The terrain was mostly either woodland or open fields, with a few short stretches of road. It was very quiet. We saw no-one except when close to habitation. Certainly, no-one else was out for a walk! Some of the woodland was coppiced, some was not. We had one stream to cross that had no bridge – not a problem with the current drought. One or two sections were seriously overgrown and Graham’s secateurs were very useful for dealing with brambles! We also walked along a sunken lane – another cool place. Away from the woods, there were some lovely views. We saw a buzzard and another large bird of prey, unidentified. On the reconnaissance a week previously, we had to run the gauntlet of a field of bulls, but this time the only animals we encountered were sheep and horses. After the walk, we retired to Mayfield for tea and cakes. Pictures by Peter Kennedy.						Index
Woodland			Open field
That none-muddy stream			Impressive tree root			Index
Charleston Farmhouse – Sunday 1 July 2018 Eighteen of us met at Charleston Farmhouse for a 5.5 mile walk on a very hot Sunday morning. We walked along to Tilton then up to the Old Coach Road, turning left and following the track along to Bo-Peep Lane where we continued across, keeping to the track. We stopped briefly at the triangular bench waymark, then walked on to Berwick Church where we stopped for a longer break to sit in the shade with a view over to the Downs. Well refreshed we carried on through the village then across two large fields to Alciston Church. From here it was more field walking eventually once again crossing Bo-Peep Lane at a different point. Then across a total of five fields, until we could see Charleston in the distance where we enjoyed delicious refreshments in their café garden.						Index
Piltdown – Wednesday 27 June 2018 We met at The Lamb, Piltdown to start our stroll of 3.7 miles. It was another hot day with not a cloud in sight! The route took us over the fields to Sharpsbridge then on to a shady bridge across the River Ouse for a short ‘coffee’ break. Once rested we continued across more fields before meandering along a beautiful but little used path following the banks of Shortbridge Stream taking us back to Shortbridge. After a section along the road we turned off to walk alongside The Peacock and on to find our way through dense undergrowth onto Piltdown Golf Course, then back into woodland for a while before emerging onto Sharpsbridge Lane, turning left at Piltdown pond to follow the road back to The Lamb for well earned refreshments. The wet Spring and recent long hot spell had resulted in vegetation taller than we were in many places.						Index
Summer Solstice Stroll - Thursday 21 June 2018 The purpose of the stroll on the longest day of the year was to watch the sun go down. This was accomplished by eleven of us at The Green Man in Ringmer. The preceding stroll was across the fields from Clayhill House on the A26. Along the way we encountered a pair of horses that were supremely indifferent to our presence and another horse that was jumping around, galloping about and generally showing off in an attempt, as far as we could see, to attract the attention of a second horse in another field which appeared to be wholly unimpressed by the display. The sunset itself was perfect and properly red though one of our members did point out that the sun that we thought we were looking at was in reality twenty degrees below the horizon. With that and other profound thoughts in mind we caught the five past ten bus back to Lewes. Hilda and Graham thought up this wizard wheeze.						Index
Two peaceful greys		One prancing grey		Hurry, the sun is setting
Going		Going		Gone (long gone?)		Index
Walking the High Weald – Between 8 and 11 June 2018 Some 30 members of the group followed the High Weald Landscape Trail from Ardingly to Eridge Green. This was a continuation of our walk along the first part of the trail last year. Over the course of the four days we skirted Ardingly reservoir and village, spotted evocative steam engines on the Bluebell Line at Kingscote Station, clambered over the huge Stone Hill Rocks with magnificent views of Weir Wood Reservoir, enjoyed the easy walking along the Forest Way between East Grinstead and Forest Row and looked at more big rocks at Eridge. But above all we enjoyed the lovely High Weald countryside. At the start it was quite lumpy-bumpy with lots of short sharp hills to climb. East of Forest Row the trail moves into farming country which is smoother but had the disadvantage of many more stiles to climb over. This very enjoyable holiday weekend was organised and led by Graham and Hilda.						Index
Isfield – Sunday 3 June 2018 On Sunday 3rd June, 20 of us met by “The Laughing Fish” pub at Isfield and explored the low-lying landscape of the upper Ouse valley. The sun shone as we followed the River Uck, one of its main tributary streams for a short while and made our way through many beautiful meadows of almost waist-high wild flowers, including some purple orchids. One complete field was white with daisies. The footpath led us through some of the immaculately-kept grounds of East Sussex National Golf Club. Some of these footpaths can be extremely muddy in winter, but today there was no problem. We had previously reported to ESCC that one stile was rotten and the step up to a wooden bridge was too high to reach easily. We were delighted to discover that this work had been done which made a big difference to us. When we returned to Isfield, nine of us stopped for a drink and meal. The walk was led by Jeanette and Margaret						Index
Fletching – Sunday 20 May 2018 Setting out from the picturesque village of Fletching, 22 walkers headed off, passing Fletching church, across the cricket ground, into delightful open arable Sussex countryside. After crossing a grass airstrip, complete with planes, not the sort of thing you normally come across on a country walk, we crossed the A272 to more open countryside. We eventually reached Sharpsbridge and crossed the River Ouse. More open fields took us passed bee hives and on to open pasture, complete with cows, that weren’t there a week ago. Here we reached the attractive Newick church and village, then acrossed the A272 into a rapeseed field, taller than many of our vertically-challenged walkers. We emerged and went across a sleeper causeway, which was too short in wet conditions. We trod carefully to avoid muddy feet and aimed for the Fletching church spire, visible in the distance. We eventually reached Fletching Mill Bridge and the road leading back to village. We passed the castellated back gateway to Sheffield Park and arrived back at the church just in time for lunch! We walked a total of just over five and a half miles, starting in cloudy, cool conditions and ending our walk with the sun shining. Anita led the walk.						Index
Not what you expect to see on a country walk			Coffee break
By-passing the cows			Emerging from		the rapeseed field.	Index

Castle Hill Nature Reserve – Wednesday 16 May 2018 An earlier recognisance walk had established that the Early Spider Orchids (Ophrys spegodes) were coming into flower on Castle Hill Nature Reserve so a small group of wild flower enthusiasts keen to see this rare chalk grassland species met at Lewes Bus Station to catch the 10.05 bus to The Newmarket pub. Walking down through the reserve it is remarkable how still and quite it is for somewhere so close to Woodingdean and Brighton; the only audible sounds are those of birds and sheep. The orchids are located on the south facing slopes that overlook the ruins of Balsdean so we followed the footpath that circuits the bottom of the reserve before re-entering via the gate at its extreme southern tip. These small orchids are only about 10-15cm high and will only grow on very short turf so once back on the reserve we began to search any likely looking areas and were delighted to find them fairly easily; in fact once you “got your eye in” they were quite plentiful. The flowers really do look like little garden spiders, especially as they are fading, when they turn a pale beige colour. However, when fresh and viewed with the aid of a magnifying glass, the ‘abdomen’ of the spider can be seen to be a gorgeous velvety deep purple/brown with white markings (see photos). Mission accomplished, photos taken and after a short break for refreshments, it was time to head back to Lewes. Total distance: approx 6.5 miles. The leader was Wendy, pictures by Jean and Wendy.
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Horsted Keynes – Sunday 6 May 2018 On May 6th, twenty-two of us set out in glorious sunshine from Horsted Keynes station, the mid-point on the Bluebell railway. We walked by the line for a while, crossing over a couple of times. At one point, one of the trains obligingly stopped where we had a fine view of the steam engine and its carriages. Leaving the line, we peeled off across some fields, eventually meeting the Sussex Border Path, and passing several groups of youngsters, who were walking for their Duke of Edinburgh Silver award. The Border Path took us across another field into woods, where we crossed a ledge next to a small lake, climbing up the bank in woods carpeted with bluebells. We stopped in the next field for our coffee break, and suitably refreshed, we entered another wood where we had to descend some very slippery steps followed by a slippery patch of mud. We proceeded further along the Border Path to the very attractive Broadhurst Manor and then past a series of small lakes, apparently known as the fish stews, to the larger Broadhurst Lake. Here we were impressed, not only with the view of the Lake, but also with the size of a fish that a group of anglers had just caught. When we reached Horsted Keynes village, we admired the attractive church of St Giles. After descending through more woods to the road, we eventually reached the old station and our cars. The walk was led by Alan.							Index
Tenth Anniversary Greenwich Meridian Trail Blizzard Walk Peacehaven to Lewes – Sunday 8th April 2018 Ten years ago, almost to the day, members of the Footpath Group set off from the Meridian Memorial Monument at Peacehaven on the first part of a walk along the Greenwich Meridian Trail that would finish at Greenwich six days later. Other members of the group walked along as part of a standard Sunday walk. Snow had been forecast and as we all set off, ten years ago, the first flakes were falling. By the time we began the climb up Telscombe Tye we were facing a blizzard. An icy north wind was driving the snow straight into our faces. We did make it back to Lewes after some life-saving hot drinks in the Youth Hostel in Telscombe (now closed) and to recall that day the group again congregated at the monument in Peacehaven in order to follow the Greenwich Meridian Trail back to Lewes. This year the weather was a lot kinder. There was no wind and drizzly rain eventually petered out. The walk was completed under continuous clouds with the occasional glimmer of sunshine. The route is through Telscombe village, where some rooks were warming themselves on some chimney pots, up Mill Hill, near to which we found some calves in their very own Mini Moo Houses, through Northease and Iford, where we stopped for our picnic and where there is a plaque in a wall near the church to mark that the Greenwich Meridian passes through the village, and so to Lewes by way of a recently ploughed, and thus very claggy, field. Twelve of us walked this day, of which four were on the original expedition. This walk was a whole lot more pleasant but a whole lot less memorable. Hilda and Graham did the honours.							Index
At the monument in 2008				At the monument in 2018
Tackling Mill Hill in 2008				Tackling Mill Hill in 2018
Rooks on the roof in Telscombe		Mini Moo Houses			Picnic in Iford		Index
Around the Upper Adur – Wednesday 4 April 2018 On Wednesday 4th April, the weather was fine as 12 intrepid walkers set out with optimism, wellies and walking poles, to cross the meadows of the Upper Adur. Team work saw everyone safely across the first major deep puddle on our route. Although the sight of left-behind wellies at the more frequently used shortcut across our first field should have set some alarm bells ringing! After crossing a couple more fields we came to what was, ten days ago, a footbridge over an outlet stream from a pond. The heavy Easter rainfall had turned the stream into a torrent and completely submerged the footbridge under about 20 centimetres of water! Following a quick consultation with the map and a retracing of steps, we arrived at a footbridge that allowed us to safely cross the river Adur and join the bridleway to the 18th-century Shermanbury Place and the church of St Giles. Although very muddy in places we made good progress along the bridleway until we eventually re-joined our original route. After a short coffee break, we headed across the fields of the hamlet of Wineham, passing banks of primroses. Looping round we could re-join Fryland Lane and retrace our steps, again passing Shermanbury Place. Continuing down the driveway for the house, and avoiding the soggy, squelchy meadows, eventually re-joining the main road to return to our start point. The rain held off until we were almost back at the car park. Everyone agreed it was nice just to be out enjoying the fresh air and admiring our surroundings. After all, what’s a bit of standing water and mud when we’re well shod? Anita led the walk.							Index
Team work at the first puddle!			Beware of left behind wellies!
I’m sure there was a footbridge here last time I looked!							Index
Lewes to Rottingdean – Sunday 25 March 2018 11 walkers met at Lewes station for the start of the 7.5 mile walk. The weather was cloudy and fine with no wind. We walked along Jugg’s Lane, past the windmill, through Kingston, then there was a steep climb onto Kingston ridge. We passed many marathon runners who gladly said, ‘Hello’ whilst running downwards! After a short break to catch our breath, we followed the South Downs Way. Many birds were singing and a lark’s song was clearly heard. We turned right descending alongside the vineyard at Breaky Bottom and had a short picnic break at the base whilst observing two buzzards ahead. Continuing our walk over the downs past Highdole Hill and Telscombe Tye, we delighted in seeing new-born lambs. Descending further to Coombe Farm, we continued down Tenant Hill, past the Lido and under the bridge to the coast at Saltdean. We walked along the cliff base arriving at Rottingdean just before 2pm, where we enjoyed a good sit down and fish’n’chips on the beach. The sea was gloriously calm and the sun had tried hard to come out! The ground was reasonably dry with just one really muddy patch. This was a challenging but rewarding walk, especially for those who needed to dust off their winter boots! The walk was led by Amanda.							Index
Picnic Break				Fish and Chips On The Beach			Index
Seaford Head – Tuesday 20 March 2018 After a second dose of ‘the Beast from the East’, that late burst of winter bringing snow and ice to the normally mild South, would anyone turn up to tackle the Seaford clifftop on this chilly but clear morning? Fortunately the relatively benign weather forecast persuaded a few intrepid walkers to brave it. Seven of us set off from Splash Point at the foot of the cliffs and quickly warmed up on the steep initial climb. We then walked along the clifftop for a stretch before turning inland, skirting the edge of a field full of lambs. There were so many of them, gathered together in a great mob rather than clinging to their mothers’ sides. We watched in amazement and amusement as 8 of them lined up and proceeded to race to the other end of the field. Had Olympic fever struck? Or perhaps March madness? We continued on past South Hill Barn car park and soon turned eastwards to pick up the Vanguard Way alongside the Cuckmere River. At least we were now sheltered from the wind – and then sun broke through. We arrived at the Coastguard Cottages where we stopped to admire the iconic views of the Seven Sisters with the Belle Tout Lighthouse in the far distance. We were back on the cliff top for the last leg of the walk. Before our final descent to the Esplanade, we enjoyed the views of Seaford in the sunshine, the glistening sea and the town of Newhaven beyond. And we were cheered by numerous sightings of skylarks and by their song as they prepared for the nesting season. Spring is definitely nigh! Everyone agreed that it had been an exhilarating and enjoyable walk and well worth The walk was led by Vivien..							Index
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Steyning – Sunday 11 March 2018 12 walkers started out from the car park opposite St Andrew’s Church in Steyning and we admired the fine half-timbered houses on Church St. After crossing the High St, we continued up Sheep Pen Lane towards the Downs. We left the lane, entering woodland for a steep and rather muddy climb towards the top of the Downs. A welcome bench near the top provided an irresistible excuse for an early coffee break, with good views of the Adur valley despite the overcast sky. Suitably refreshed we continued to the top, where we met the South Downs Way, with further wide views towards the sea near Worthing. Here we followed the puddle-strewn South Downs Way westwards, enjoying the skylarks singing and trying to convince us that spring was really here. After about a mile, we turned right and descended through woodland and fields, eventually arriving at the delightfully named Mouse Lane. This took us onto Steyning High Street with its many historical buildings and eventually back to the car park. Despite the mud, it was a very pleasant walk, led by Alan.		Index
Plumpton – Wednesday 7 March 2018 After the snow, wind, and cold we were pleased to have sun and warmth for our walk at Plumpton. We walked five and a quarter miles from Plumpton Green to Streat and back on Wednesday 7th March. Starting at Plumpton Village Hall we walked along Station Road onto the footpath that runs beside the Fountain Inn. We crossed several fields in a north westerly direction to emerge onto Streat Lane to head south. We stayed on the lane longer than we wanted to avoid the mud on the bridle path. However we were rewarded by fine views of the Downs and the ‘V’ of trees. At the railway bridge we took the track to rejoin the bridle path. We went under the railway line to a fast flowing stream which we crossed on a sturdy footbridge. We followed the raised, now mud free bridle path in a southerly direction to the outskirts of Streat. Here we turned onto a footpath to head east passing the Church, and stopping to admire the front of Streat Place. We crossed back over Streat Lane to head towards Plumpton Green on a track; part of which we were told was a Roman Road. We stopped at a plaque beside the track showing the position of Plumpton Cross on the Downs and its involvement with the Battle of Lewes. We took the footpath through Plumpton Racecourse back to the start of our walk. This was an excellent way to spend a sunny morning walking in the country in the company of fellow walkers. The walk was led by Dave.		Index
Blackboys – Sunday 25 February 2018 We had 23 members joining us for a 5 mile walk starting and finishing at the Blackboys Inn. All of us keen to make the most of the very cold but beautifully sunny day before the arrival of the snow, which was due the next day! The very muddy areas were tempered by the icy conditions and some long stretches along country lanes. The route took us across to Tickerage Mill and on, across fields to Pound Lane. From there we crossed the Framfield to Blackboys road then followed Pump Lane down to New Place where we took to the fields again, eventually crossing the main Lewes to Heathfield Road at Bushbury Lane. We following this lane for a while then turned to follow a grass path through to Hollow Lane. Passing beautiful displays of snowdrops on the way, our route then took us through to Kiln Wood and back to the Blackboys Inn for Coffee and Hot Chocolate.
Nutley to Sheffield Forest – Sunday 11 February 2018 The Footpaths Group Sunday walk started at Nutley. We were relieved to find the morning dry and sunny after the rain and wind of the previous day. From the Ford’s Green recreation ground we turned into the lane and then immediately left past some large houses to reach a very waterlogged path leading into Hollybush Wood. We picked our way downhill to a footbridge and then scrambled up through woodland to reach a level track running alongside open fields and on to Woolpack Farm. After a quick coffee break it was decided that the conditions underfoot were so difficult that we would cut the walk short; we therefore walked along Bell Lane for just over a mile and then cut back along a woodland track (with some excitingly boggy patches!) down to the footbridge again, retracing our steps back to the parked cars. All agreed that it would be a lovely walk to repeat in the summer. The walk was led by Anne.		Index
Peacehaven – Sunday 28 January 2018 The planned walk was around Fletching, which is always a bit of a lottery in winter. After all the rain in the last few days Sunday’s walk was switched to Peacehaven. Starting at the Centenary Park we headed inland past the huge Southern Waterworks which does manage to disappear into the landscape remarkably well, helped by a large grassy roof. A gentle climb took us to the northern outskirts of Peacehaven and a rather tedious walk across to Telscombe Tye. After a short coffee break we headed down to the sea and walked east along the cliff top, past the Meridian Monument to George VI and so back to the park, pushed along by a brisk westerly wind. Fifteen walkers enjoyed this rather restful outing which was led by Hilda and Graham.		Index
Lewes, Offham Circular - Sunday 14 January 2018 On a glorious sunny winter’s morning, 26 of us set off from North Street Car Park for a walk around Lewes and Offham. We first took the road past the Fire Station until it emerged onto the Pells area where we saw a variety of water fowl and then crossed over the railway by means of the covered bridge. We were soon walking along Landport road until it took us into Landport woods. Here we heard the birds singing and a woodpecker drumming and on this beautiful morning it felt Spring had come. After walking through the woods, we crossed the main road at Offham and began the steady climb to the top of the hill before walking through woods where we all found some welcome tree trunks to sit on and have our coffee break. After walking through more woods we came to the path which took us past the top of the chalk pits and stopped to admire the magnificent view over the Weald. It was then downhill all the way to Landport Bottom and on to Hill Road before we reached the Pells area again. Although the walk had to be familiar to some, it was a joy to be out on such a lovely morning. The walk was led by Margaret and Jeannette.		Index
Newhaven to Seaford Stroll – Wednesday 10 January 2018 We definitely had the best weather for some time on our stroll which was led by Janet. We were blessed with wonderful sunshine which made being outside a pleasure. 16 of us took the train to Newhaven Harbour and then walked over the new metal railway bridge and the old wooden river bridge through to the sea. We followed the path along past Tide Mills and the site of the old Chailey hospital for disabled children through to the Sailing Club where we stopped for coffee. We were able to sit outside enjoying the warm sunshine. Continuing along the promenade the group had to negotiate more and more shingle which had been blown up by the previous week’s storm, so climbed the steps up to the pavement where we still had a stunning view of the sea below us. After crossing the road we walked along the edge of the park and so back to Seaford station and the return train to Lewes. If only more winter days could have weather like this!		Index
Selmeston – Monday 1 January 2018 Ten of us managed to shake off the excesses of any New Year celebrations and were undaunted by the less than optimistic weather forecast about rain. Yes, it did rain a little and yes, it was a bit windy at times and yes, the walk was a bit muddy in places (it is The Weald after all) but none of those factors spoiled our walk. We started at The Barley Mow, climbed up to the top of The Downs (there is less mud up there as everybody knows) came down again and then found our way back to the Barley Mow by way of Alciston and some very damp fields. Having had any cobwebs well and truly blown away we enjoyed a convivial meal at the pub along with quite a few other New Year Day escapees, some with added noisy, otherwise well behaved, children. Hilda and Graham led the way.		Index
Winter Solstice Stroll – Thursday 21 December 2017 Seven slightly silly strollers set off at seven o’clock in the morning to see the sunrise at eight. We understood that that intention was entirely futile because of the low cloud firmly stuck over the British Isles by a ridge of high pressure extending up from the Azores. Nevertheless, having made the effort to get up so early we agreed that a walk would do us good and be enjoyable as well. Having found our way up Hill Road to the start of the Motor Road we climbed up to the Old Racecourse, pausing at the allotted hour to confirm that the sun was not to be seen. The other people out at that hour were mainly dog walkers and runners. One such was on her way to Black Cap and back before going into work which appeared to be unnecessarily energetic for such an early hour. One of the local stables had their horses out and a group of six galloped past us as we walked by Jill’s Pond. Breakfast was taken at Laporte’s whose Bubble and Squeak and fried eggs will only be on the menu for a short time more as sadly it is soon to close. Having put the world to right we separated to enjoy the rest of the day.		Index
Eridge - Sunday 17 December 2017 Nine walkers braved ice and fog to reach the start of our Sunday walk at Eridge Station. The weather rapidly improved to give a pleasant, windless morning. After a short distance on Forge Road we turned left to follow the driveway towards Motts Farm, leaving it to negotiate a short section of waterlogged path, and then turned right over a footbridge to follow a path northwest past Rocks Farm. Crossing a field we dropped down to another footbridge over the Mottsmill Stream and then uphill to a stile onto the Motts Mill road. After following the road downhill we turned off onto a footpath in the direction of Groombridge, stopping for a quick coffee break. Our route took us under the main railway line and into Groombridge itself, where a footpath beside the village school led us back across the Spa Valley track. A path along field edges brought us to the road leading down to the Harrison’s Rocks car park, from where we continued rather muddily with the railway on our right and a fine view of the rocks to our left. We were rewarded with the splendid sight of the Spa Valley Santa Special train chuffing along, full of excited children. After making our way back across the railway at the level crossing we returned along Forge Road to the station, just before the rain set in. The walk was led by Anne.		Index
Patcham to Falmer – Sunday 3 December 2017 The weather was over cast and there was mizzle in the air when thirteen of us set off from Patcham for our walk to Falmer. A steady climb took us to the Chattri where a coffee break was taken whilst we enjoyed the restrained peaceful ambiance of the area. By this time the clouds had lifted a little and for a brief moment the sun shone almost brightly on the white marble dome of the memorial monument. At the same time the distant sea lit up as a silver mirror which contrasted starkly with the black clouds above. Pressing on, we passed through Lower Standean, a hidden valley in the middle of The Downs and then stopped for our picnic at North Bottom, perched on the “knobbly knees” of a small clump of trees. Before entering into Stanmer Park we enjoyed another glimpse of the sea, now tinged with red and with the many turbines of Rampion windfarm clearly seen. The floor of the woods was covered with the green leaves belonging, according to our resident nature expert, to Dog’s Mercury. Apparently Pliny named it after Mercury, the messenger of the Gods, for reasons only guessed at, and “dog’s” comes from the fact that it has no medicinal use. (For more information see The Poison Garden website). After hot chocolates and other refreshments at the brilliant Stanmer café, we found our way to the bus stop by the university, for the journey home. This very pleasant escapade was led by Hilda and Graham.		Index
Chattri and a silver sea	Picnic on a knobbly tree
“This is a bit steep”	Rampion in a red sea.	Index
Greenway near Sidley – Wednesday 15 November 2017 On Wednesday 15th November, we visited the Greenway and Combe Valley country park. Parking in Sidley, the walkers made their way to the remains of Glovers Farm passing over the former railway line from Bexhill West to Crowhurst - now a bridge over the new Bexhill to Hastings link road. We noticed the construction of the western arm of the new Bexhill and Sidley relief road, new commercial premises and evidence of future development in this area. After passing under the former railway line, we reached the new Greenway path for walkers, cyclists and horse riders and had excellent views of the tranquil Combe Valley Country Park. Although the path had been constructed as part of the project to build the new Bexhill to Hastings road, we were rarely aware of this road due to good landscaping. Despite the good surface and excellent views, we met few other walkers. We had our coffee stop on the 1066 Country walk and followed it southwards to the old railway line. Then after less than a mile along the old track bed, we returned to Glovers Farm, went through a housing estate and returned to our cars in Sidley. The majority of us then went for a carvery lunch at Ninfield to round off an interesting morning walk led by Robert.		Index
Friston Forest – Sunday 5 November 2017 A group of eight walkers led by Peter and Janet set off from Exceat County Park in glorious sunshine and blue skies, which persisted for a good part of the day. Our first uphill section was the steep grassy hill complete with grazing sheep behind Exceat. Our reward for the climb was a magnificent view of the Cuckmere river below, a textbook demonstration of meanders. We clambered over the stone stile at the top and set off through the woods, along a leafy path close to the main road to Eastbourne. A little further on we turned inland, passing through the hamlet of Friston then up across the open grassland of the Gallops (no horses in sight, though) before returning to the woods. Having feared the worst after finding that that part of our route had been followed by the intrepid Beachy Head marathon runners the week before, we were pleased to discover that the mud was less bad than expected. We next turned onto the South Downs way. Here we were clear of the woods and had glorious views in all directions, the forward view being across to Bo Peep and Firle Beacon. Further on we could see Alfriston below. We gradually dropped down into Litlington where we stopped for lunch. After that another steep uphill section took us eventually to West Dean, then back and up through the woods, again on the South Downs Way, to the stile where we had started and back down the hillside to Exceat. Although the view was the same, this time the light was quite different: the sun had disappeared, and it was 3pm.		Index
East Brighton - Tuesday 31 October 2017 We were blessed with a fine, dry day for the East Brighton walk which was led by Janet. Fifteen walkers took two buses to East Brighton and we started off through East Brighton Park then we turned North to follow a gradually ascending path through Sheepcote Valley. Brighton College sports fields could be glimpsed below us on the left and there was a view across to the grandstand of Brighton racecourse. After passing through a field of sheep, we crossed the racecourse and turned south to descend beside the golf course with gorgeous views of the sea ahead. Our coffee stop was taken shielded from the golfers by a row of bushes where we met many dog walkers. It seems that professional dog walkers make good use of this area exercising as many as 8 or 9 dogs. Continuing towards the sea, we saw the stately buildings of Roedean school. Before reaching the school, we climbed quite steeply until we could see the village of Ovingdean below us. We turned left to reach a track ascending beside the golf course which we crossed briefly. Exiting through a gate, we came back to our starting point. Several people went off to the marina to find lunch in one of its many restaurants and cafes and the rest of us caught a bus back to Lewes.		Index
Ardingly – Sunday 22 October 2017 After the strong winds and downpours of Storm Brian the previous day, we were delighted to find sunshine and clear skies as a group of 22 walkers, led by Alan, set off from the dam at Ardingly Reservoir, where lots of canoeists were out on the water. For the first two miles we followed the bank of the reservoir, before turning right, uphill to reach a lane at the attractive half-timbered Edmond’s farm. After about half a mile walking along the lane, we took a footpath into the woods and descended quite steeply down to another corner of the reservoir, which we crossed over on an attractive wire bridge, pausing to watch the diving skills of a great crested grebe. After ascending on the other side, we paused for our coffee break on a handy bench with terrific views of the reservoir and the wooded slopes around it. At the top of the hill, we walked along the back of Ardingly Showground, at one point having to manoeuvre around a makeshift cycle track, where cyclists appeared to be doing some kind of time trials around a muddy winding circuit. This, it transpires, was Round 3 of the Sussex CX cyclo-cross event. After skirting around the muddy cyclists, we commenced our descent, first through a corner of Ardingly village and subsequently down a series of fields to arrive back at the car park just before one o’clock.		Index
Alfriston – Wednesday 18 October 2017 On Wednesday 18th October, having driven through a heavy shower to get to our starting point at Alfriston, we were pleasantly surprised to find that the rain had stopped and it was dry for our stroll around Alfriston. The leader was particularly pleased that eight members had ignored the awful forecast to join the walk. We walked through the village across the Tye in front of St Andrews Church, also known as the Cathedral of the Downs, and the National Trust Clergy House. Joining a tree covered pathway at the side of the Seaford road, we continued to almost Frog Firle before taking the public footpath by the side of the old Youth Hostel down towards Litlington. Crossing the Cuckmere River we then took a slippery footpath back to the drier River Bank which led back to Alfriston. Unfortunately, the mist hampered our views but we were able to make out the white horse at High and Over to our left and the spire of Litlington Church to our right. Passing the White Bridge at Alfriston we continued on the river bank to the old bridge, turning left to take a further pathway back to the village. Scones and coffee followed for five of the group!		Index
Berwick Station circular - Sunday 8 October 2017 Heading West just South of the station on the Vanguard Way we soon hit a field of earth with no visible path. Thankfully the ground was dry. The field of Linseed south of Common Lane was hard going due to furrows but bright blue flowers were a distraction. A kind motorist slowed right down allowing 18 of us to cross the A27 en masse at Berwick. Berwick church provided a pleasant spot for mid-morning refreshment, the location enhanced by the sounds of the service. A long curving plod West of Winton up to the South Downs Way saw all of us shedding layers of clothing. There were far reaching views from the summit and the sea glittered in strong sunlight. We passed some Exmoor ponies on the descent to Alciston, and noted the numerous green men on the walls of Green Cottage in the village. A second crossing of the A27 was eased by a central reservation. The challenging part was the next stile; some needed assistance to get their leg over! At this point we realised that my distance measuring and time estimates were off the mark. An advanced party steamed ahead on a more direct route in the hope of catching the next train home from Berwick. Those who stayed on the long route spotted many mushrooms on the last leg. I was embarrassed, but not surprised, to find the advanced party were in the pub having just missed the train. Thank you for accepting my apologies for the late finish of the walk which was led by Peter.		Index
Lewes Loop Four: Plumpton to Barcombe Cross – Tuesday 26 September 2017 The final leg of the Lewes Loop was through the mainly flat lands of the Ouse valley between Plumpton and Isfield. From Plumpton Station, seventeen of us set off heading east to South Chailey. The weather was cloudy and calm and the walking was easy and far less muddy than anticipated. At South Chailey we passed Balneath Manor and continued south-east to Barcombe Cross where we enjoyed a drink at The Royal Oak. Some of the party took the bus back to Lewes but the majority carried on to Barcombe Mills where we joined the Sussex Ouse valley Way and walked up beside the Ouse to the Anchor Inn and so to Isfield. By this time the sun was beginning to exert its warming influence and it began to feel decidedly muggy. Having sat outside the Laughing Fish with our drinks for a while we caught the bus back to Lewes after an exceedingly gentle but very pleasant day’s walking. Hilda and Graham led the party.		Index
In the ‘Paw Prints of Winnie the Pooh’ – Sunday 17 September 2017 Twenty one of our members met at Gills Lap car park to explore this part of Ashdown Forest on a rather chilly morning. Passing ‘Galleons Leap’ and ‘The Enchanted Forest’ we made our way down to ‘Pooh Sticks Bridge’ where we played the famous game, from there we walked to the beautiful, dense beech woodland of 500 Hundred Acre Wood the setting of ‘100 Aker Wood’ and the home of Owl in the stories. Here we stopped to enjoy the pretty setting by a stream. From there we had a long steady climb back up through woodland to the open heath land which a few weeks ago was covered in the most beautiful heather but unfortunately was now beginning to fade. The valley bottom to the right is the site of ‘Eeyore’s Sad and Gloomy Place’ and the ‘North Pole’. From here we made our way back to the car park to complete this very enjoyable and varied 5.5 mile walk.		Index
Shortgate – Wednesday 13 September 2017 Twelve walkers enjoyed a flat 6 mile walk from Raystede Animal Sanctuary to Rose Hill via Shortgate and back on a fine Wednesday morning recently. It was a varied walk with several things of interest en-route. I did not know that the raised footpath that runs behind the houses and businesses on the Broyle near Shortgate was built many years ago to be a visible marker of the boundary between the parishes of Ringmer and Laughton. We marveled at the high wires and bridges at the Branchingout Adventure Park beside Bentley Wildfowl and Motor Museum. Someone suggested these obstacles could have formed part of our walk! We had a refreshment break at the edge of Plashett Park discussing its large lakes. We followed the boundary of Plashett Park on a raised footpath for nearly ½ mile with lakes visible on our left all the way. We walked along the A26 to near the Half Way House at Rose Hill to find the footpath that would take us back to the start. Thankfully there was a narrow footway but rather close to fast moving traffic, not the most enjoyable part of our walk. After crossing Harvey’s Lane some walkers stopped to admire the magnificent views over Ringmer to the Downs. After 3 hours we arrived back at Raystede. We made a collection for Raystede funds as a thank you for allowing us to park our cars in their car park while walking. Half the group enjoyed a good lunch in the Raystede cafeteria. Dave led the walk.		Index

A Walk by the Middle Adur – Sunday 6 August 2017 A group of 14 walkers set out from the picturesque village of Bramber, cutting across a field to reach the bank of the Adur. Shortly after reaching the river, we crossed it on the footbridge and continued northwards on the east bank of the river with views of the river on the left and the Downs on the right. Many swans were patrolling along the river - including one family with a group of four cygnets. After about two and a half miles, we reached a bridge over the river, which used to be for the railway line from Horsham to Steyning. It is now is a bridleway for the Downs Link - a walkway joining the North and South Downs. After a welcome coffee break, we returned along the Downs Link, passing through maize fields full of succulent corn cobs and wheat fields ready to be harvested with views of Chanctonbury Ring in the distance. Somewhat less idyllically rural, as we walked along the lane approaching Bramber, was the local sewage farm, which assaulted our senses. The weather was sunny with a breeze and ideal for the walk, which was led by Alan.

Index

Index of Walk Reports up to October 2018
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WALK REPORTS for 2018

· North Chailey – Tuesday 30 October 2018

· East Chiltington – Sunday 21 October 2018

· Rodmell – Wednesday 17 October 2018

· Wilmington – Sunday 7 October 2018

· Newhaven to Southease Stroll – Tuesday 2 October 2018

· Bourton-on-the-Water Holiday Weekend – Friday 28 September to Monday 1 October 2018

· Wivelsfield – Wednesday 19 September 2018

· Saturday Afternoon Tea Stroll – Saturday 1 September 2018

· Duddleswell – Sunday 26 August 2018

· Stroll Round Wild Park – Wednesday 22 August 2018

· Burgess Hill - Sunday 12 August 2018

· Cissbury Ring Circular – Tuesday 7 August 2018

· Slater’s Trail - Sunday 5 August 2018

· Mark Cross – Wednesday 25 July 2018

· Charleston Farmhouse – Sunday 1 July 2018

· Piltdown – Wednesday 27 June 2018

· Summer Solstice Stroll - Thursday 21 June 2018

· Walking the High Weald – Between 8 and 11 June 2018

· Isfield – Sunday 3 June 2018

· Fletching – Sunday 20 May 2018

· Castle Hill Nature Reserve – Wednesday 16 May 2018

· Horsted Keynes – Sunday 6 May 2018

· Tenth Anniversary Greenwich Meridian Trail Blizzard Walk Peacehaven to Lewes – Sunday 8th April 2018

· Upper Adur – Wednesday 4 April 2018

· Lewes to Rottingdean – Sunday 25 March 2018

· Seaford Head – Tuesday 20 March 2018

· Steyning – Sunday 11 March 2018

· Plumpton – Wednesday 7 March 2018

· Blackboys – Sunday 25 February 2018

· Nutley to Sheffield Forest – Sunday 11 February 2018

· Peacehaven – Sunday 28 January 2018

· Lewes, Offham Circular - Sunday 14 January 2018

· Newhaven to Seaford Stroll – Wednesday 10 January 2018

· Selmeston – Monday 1 January 2018

WALK REPORTS for 2017

· Winter Solstice Stroll – Thursday 21 December 2017

· Eridge - Sunday 17 December 2017

· Patcham to Falmer – Sunday 3 December 2017

· Greenway near Sidley – Wednesday 15 November 2017

· Friston Forest – Sunday 5 November 2017

· East Brighton - Tuesday 31 October 2017

· Ardingly – Sunday 22 October 2017

· Alfriston – Wednesday 18 October 2017

· Berwick Station circular - Sunday 8 October 2017

· Lewes Loop Four: Plumpton to Barcombe Cross – Tuesday 26 September 2017

· In the 'Paw Prints of Winnie the Pooh' – Sunday 17 September 2017

· Shortgate – Wednesday 13 September 2017

· Lewes to Kingston Evening Walk – Tuesday 29 August 2017

· To the Half Moon and Back – Sunday 20 August 2017

· Devil’s Dyke – Wednesday 16 August 2017

· A Walk by the Middle Adur – Sunday 6 August 2017

· Littlington – Sunday 23 July

· Barcombe to South Chailey – Wednesday 19 July 2017

· Coach Trip to Scotney Castle - Tuesday 11 July 2017

· Hellingly Circular – Tuesday 4 July 2017

· Orchid Walk, Castle Hill Nature Reserve - Sunday 25 June 2017

· Summer Solstice Sunset Stroll - Wednesday 21 June 2017

· Wild Flower Walk – Sunday 11 June 2017

· Lewes Loop Three – Tuesday 6 June 2017

· The Downs above Firle – Sunday May 28, 2017

· Pycombe Stroll – Wednesday 24 May 2017

· The Medway in Sussex – Sunday 14 May 2017

· Lewes Loop 2 – Sunday 30 April 2017

· Upper Dicker and Arlington – Wednesday 26 April 2017

· Lewes Loop One B – Tuesday 18 April 2017

· Scandalous Eastbourne – Tuesday 11 April 2017

· Lewes Loop One – Sunday 2 April 2017

· Seaford Head – Sunday 26 March 2017

· Newick to Little Horsted – Wednesday 8 March 2017

· Mark Cross – Sunday 26 February

· Lewes Stroll – Tuesday 21 February 2017

· Ashdown Forest - Sunday 12 February 2017

· Moulescoomb to Falmer - Sunday 29 January 2017

· Kingston Stroll – Wednesday 25 January 2017

· Firle – Sunday 15 January 2017

· New Year Lunch – Wednesday 11 January 2017

· Wilmington – Monday 2 January 2017

WALK REPORTS for 2016

· Boreham Street – Sunday 18 December 2016

· Sunrise Stroll – Wednesday 13 December 2016

· Southease –Sunday 4 December 2016

· Housedean to Lewes – Wednesday 30 Nov 2016

· Polegate Circular – Sunday 20 November 2016

· Lancing - Tuesday 15 Nov 2016

· Isfield – Tuesday 8 Nov 2016

· Clapham – Wednesday 2 Nov 2016

· Hurstpierpoint – Sunday 23 October 2016

· Crow and Gate to Five Ashdown– Tuesday 18 October 2016

· Chelwood Vachery - Wednesday 12 Oct 2016

· Peacehaven Circular – Sunday 9 Oct 2016

· High Hurstwood – Wednesday 28 September 2016

· Newick to North Chailey to Isfield – Tuesday 20 September 2016

· Stroll Cuckmere Haven – Wednesday 14 September 2016

· Evening walk with Supper Fulking – Wednesday 7 September 2016

· Barcombe. Favourite Walk 9 – Monday 29 August 2016

· Goring by Sea (Change from Binstead Woods) – Tuesday 23 August 2016

· Firle - Alciston Favourite Walk 5– Sunday 14 August 2016

· Laughton Circular – Tuesday 26 July 2016

· Ripe – Wednesday 20 July 2016

· Pyecombe – Sunday 17 July 2016

· Ightham Mote Coach Trip – Wednesday 13 July 2016

· Breakfast Walk Newmarket to Spring Barn – Saturday 9 July

· Stonegate – Sunday 3 July

· Bexhill to Hastings – Tuesday 28 June 2016

· Rushlake Green - Sunday 19 June 2016

· Castle Hill Nature Reserve - 12 June 2016

· Danehill Stroll - 8 June 2016

· Pevensey – Sunday 5 June 2016

· Ashdown Forest Spring Hill – Sunday 22 May 2016

· Mystery Evening Walk with Supper – Wednesday 18 May 2016

· Southease to Lewes Stroll – Wednesday 11 May 2016

· Uckfield Rocks & Rivers - Sunday 24 April 2016

· Cuckoo Trail Stroll –Wednesday 20 April 2016

· Polegate – Sunday 10 April 2016

· Balsdean Valley – Easter Sunday 27 March 2016

· Newick to Sheffield Park - Tuesday 22 March 2016

· Stroll Newhaven to Seaford – Tuesday 15 March 2016

· Punnetts Town – Sunday 13 March 2016

· East Dean Circular - Sunday 28 February 2016

· Stroll in Stanmer Park – Tuesday 16 February 2016

· Wilmington Circular via Alfriston - Wednesday 10 February 2016

· Plumpton Sunday - 26 January 2016

· Portslade - Sunday 31 January 2016

· Ashdown Forest (Changed to Lewes Walk) - Sunday 17 January 2016

WALK REPORTS for 2015

· Seaford Slater Trail – Sunday 20 December 2015

· Lancing – 6 December 2015

· Plumpton – Sunday 22 November 2015

· Alciston – Sunday 8 November 2015

· Upper Beeding & Bramber Down – Sunday 25 October 2015

· Lewes to Stanmer – Tuesday 20 October 2015

· Jevington – Sunday 11 October 2015

· Berwick Selmeston Ripe Chalvington – Tuesday 22 September 2015

· Littleworth – Wednesday 9 September 2015

· Seven Sisters & Friston Forest – Monday 31 August 2015

· Rodmell Stroll – Tuesday 25 August 2015

· Fulking - Wednesday 12 August 2015

· Offham Combe – Sunday 2 August 2015

· Hastings - Tuesday 28 July 2015

· Ringmer to Barcombe – Saturday 18 July 2015

· Stroll at Barcombe – Wednesday 8 July 2015

· Hassocks - Sunday 5 July 2015

· Arlington – Wednesday 1 July 2015

· Crowborough – Sunday 21 June 2015

· Breakfast Walk Glynde to YHA South Downs – Saturday 6 June 2015

· Battle – Wednesday 3 June 2015

· Peacehaven to Lewes – Sunday 31 May 2015

· Falmer to Lewes – Tuesday 19 May 2015

· Fishersgate to Shoreham to Lancing - Sunday 10 May 2015

· Bolney – Sunday 26 April 2015

· Chiddingly- Monday 6 April 2015

· Fletching – Wednesday 18 March 2015

· Littlehampton Circular – Tuesday 3 March 2015

· Bishopstone to Southease Youth Hostel – Sunday 8 March 2015

· Around Clayton – Sunday 22 February 2015

· Folkington to Jevington - Wednesday 18 February 2015

· Stroll Newhaven to Seaford – Wednesday 11 February 2015

· Plumpton – Sunday 8 February 2015

· Steyning – Tuesday 3 February 2015

· East Dean Circular – Sunday 25 January 2015

· Pre-prandial Stroll.  Buxted – Wednesday 14 January 2015

· Downs North of Lewes – Sunday 11 January 2015

WALK REPORTS for 2014

· St Leonards – Tuesday 16 December 2014

· Firle to Charleston – Wednesday 10 December 2014

· Coleman’s Hatch - Sunday 7 December 2014

· Lewes Racecourse & Mount Harry – Tuesday 25 November 2014

· Balsdean Valley – Tuesday 18 November 2014

· Blackboys – Sunday 9 November

· Ardingly Reservoir – Sunday 26 October

· Plumpton – Tuesday 21 October 2014

· Arundel to Goring - Wednesday 15 October 2014

· North Chailey - Tuesday 16 September 2014

· Fletching - Sunday 7 September 2014

· Bishopstone to Alfriston - Tuesday 2 September 2014

· Glynde - Sunday 24 August 2014

· Ditchling Stroll - Tuesday 19 August 2014

· Lewes to Spain (aka Saltdean) - Tuesday 19 August 2014

· 50th Anniversary Walks - Tuesday 12 August 2014

· Ardingly - Wednesday 6 August 2014

· Polesden Lacey - Wednesday 23 July 2014

· Plumpton - Sunday 13 July 2014

· Rodmell - Sunday 9 July 2014

· Burgess Hill - Sunday 29 June 2014

· Ovingdean & Undercliffe - Tuesday 24 June 2014

· Stroll - Tuesday 17 June 2014

· High Hurstwood - Sunday 15 June 2014

· Horsted Keynes - Tuesday 27 May 2014

· Battle of Lewes Celebration - Saturday 10 May 2014

· 1st Stroll Bramber - Tuesday 22 April 2014

· Polegate to Berwick Station - Wednesday 16 April 2014

· Ringmer to Barcombe Circular - Sunday 23 March 2014

· Uckfield to Little Horstead - Wednesday 19 March 2014

· Hadlow Down - Sunday 9 March 2014

· Plumpton Green - Tuesday 4 March 2014

· Horam - Sunday 23 February 2014

· Ashdown Forest - Wednesday 19 February 2014

· Fletching - Tuesday 4 February 2014

· Chailey Common - Sunday 26 January 2014

· Shortgate - Wednesday 22 January 2014

· Pre-Prandial Stroll Stanmer - Wednesday 15 January 2014

· Housedean to Lewes - Tuesday 7 January 2014

· Falmer - Wednesday 1 January 2014

WALK REPORTS for 2013

· A Seaford Stroll - Sunday 15 December 2013

· Rodmell Iford South Downs Way - Sunday 1 December 2013

· Ashurst Wood - Tuesday 26 November 2013

· Crowlink - Sunday 17 November 2013

· Cooksbridge to Chailey - Wednesday 13 November 2013

· Chiddingly - Sunday 3 November 2013

· Rushlake Green - Tuesday 29 October 2013

· Ipswich, Suffolk - 4 to 7 October 2013

· High Hurstwood - Tuesday 1 October 2013

· Lewes Circular Sunday 22 September 2013

· Woodmancote - Wednesday 18 September 2013

· Puttenham or Shalford to Shere - Sunday 8 September 2013

· South Chailey to Isfield or lewes - Tuesday 3 September 2013

· Fletching - Monday 26 August 2013

· Rushlake Green, Warbleton, Vines Cross - Tuesday 20 August 2013

· Rottingdean - Wednesday 11 August 2013

· East Hoathly - Wednesday 7 August 2013

· Jevington and Lullington Heath - Sunday 28 July 2013

· Arundel - Wednesday 24 July 2013

· Bury Hill or Slindon Common to East Dean - Wednesday 10 July 2013

· Hassocks - Sunday 30 June 2013

· Patcham to Lewes - Wednesday 26 June 2013

· Evening Walk Lewes & Kingston - Saturday 15 June 2013

· Buxted - Monday 27 May 2013

· Five ash Down and Little Horsted - Sunday 19 May 2013

· Newhaven & Piddinghoe - Wednesday 1 May 2013

· Burwash - Monday 21 April 2013

· Blackboys - Monday 1 April 2013

· Lewes to Glynde or Berwick Station - Sunday 24 March 2013

· Springtime at Wakehurst - Tuesday 19 March 2013

· Holtye - Sunday 10 March 2013

· Cuckfield - Wednesday 6 March 2013

· Rushlake Green - Sunday 24 February 2013

· Cuckmere Valley - Tuesday 19 February 2013

· Firle - Sunday 10 February 2013

· Lewes - Wednesday 6 February 2013

· Ashdown Forest - Sunday 27 January 2013

· Stanmer Park - Tuesday 16 January 2013

· Brighton-Rottingdean-Lewes - Sunday 13 January 2013

· Withyham - Wednesday 9 January 2013

WALK REPORTS for 2012

· Malling Hill & The Combe - Wednesday 26 December 2012

· Ardingly & Balcombe - Wednesday 12 December 2012

· Laughton - Sunday 2 December 2012

· Chelwood Gate - Wednesday 27 November 2012

· Ditchling - Wednesday 18 November 2012

· Findon and Chanctonbury Ring - Wednesday 14 November 2012

· Hartfield & Pooh Bridge - Sunday 4 November 2012

· Waldron - Sunday 21 October 2012

· Alfriston & Wilmington - Sunday 7 October 2012

· The Weald around Newick - Tuesday 2 October 2012

· Lewes to A27, Housedean - Sunday 23 September 2012

· Broad Oak, Heathfield - Wednesday 19 September 2012

· Sandwich to St Margaret's Bay and Walmer Castle - Sunday 9 September 2012

· Bishopstone - Tuesday 4 September 2012

· Firle - Monday 27 August 2012

· The Plumpton Path - Wednesday 22 August 2012

· East Hoathly - Sunday 19 August 2012

· Evening Walk Arlington Resevoir & Supper - Tuesday 7 August 2012

· Ditchling Beacon - Sunday 29 July 2012

· Three Oaks to Winchelsea - Wednesday 25 July 2012

· Around Beachy Head - Sunday 14 July 2012

· Sissinghurst Castle - Tuesday 10 July 2012

· Figure of 8: Steyning am Bramber pm - Sunday 1 July 2012

· Evening Walk Lewes to Mount Caburn to Lewes - Tuesday 26 June 2012

· Eridge - Sunday 17 June 2012

· Amberley - Wednesday 13 June 2012

· Chailey Breakfast Walk - Saturday 2 June 2012

· Devils Dyke - Sunday 20 May 2012

· Gun Hill - Wednesday 16 May 2012

· Isfield - Monday 7 May 2012

· Pevensey Castle & Rickney - Tuesday 1 May 2012

· Hadlow Down - Sunday 22 April 2012

· Upper Dicker - Wednesday 18 April 2012

· Horndean to East or West Meon - Sunday 15 April 2012

· Wivelsfield Green - Monday 9 April 2012

· Falmer to Rottingdean - Tuesday 3 April 2012

· Vines Cross - Sunday 25 March 2012

· Crowborough to Eridge Station - Wednesday 21 March 2012

· Berwick Figure of Eight - Sunday 11 March 2012

· Alfriston - Tuesday 6 March 2012

· Hellingly - Sunday 26 February 2012

· Newhaven to Peacehaven to Piddinghoe to Newhaven - Wednesday 22 February 2012

· Horam - Sunday 12 February 2012

· Crosspost/Bolney - Tuesday 7 February 2012

· Balsdean (Walk 4) - Sunday 29 January 2012

· Horstead Keynes - Sunday 15 January 2012

· Around Ditchling Beacon - Sunday 1 January 2012

WALK REPORTS for 2011

· Plumpton - Wednesday 7 December 2011

· Steyning - Sunday 27 November 2011

· Berwick to Polegate (Changed to Southease) - Tuesday 22 November 2011

· Kingston - Sunday 13 November 2011

· Fletching - Wednesday 18 November 2011

· Fulking - Sunday 30 October 2011

· Wicklands, Shortgate, Roes Hill, Isfield - Tuesday 25 October 2011

· Harvest Moon Walk - Saturday 15 October 2011

· Christ's Hospital and Itchingfield - Wednesday 12 October 2011

· Nutley & Sheffield Forest - Sunday 2 October 2011

· Newhaven to Alfriston - Wednesday 28 September 2011

· Wivelsfield - Sunday 18 September 2011

· Groombridge - Tuesday 13 September 2011

· Cranbrook & Iden Green to Tenterden - Sunday 4 September 2011

· Etchingham - Monday 29 August 2011

· Ashdown Forest - Sunday 21 August 2011

· Pulborough to Amberley - Tuesday 16 August 2011

· Laughton - Sunday 7 August 2011

· Litlington - Wednesday 3 August 2011

· Barcombe - Tuesday 19 July 2011

· Petworth and Canal Cruise - Wednesday 13 July 2011

· Berwick - Saturday 9 July 2011

· West St Leonards to Crowhurst - Wednesday 6 July 2011

· Chailey Common with Supper - Tuesday 21 June 2011

· West Hoathly - Sunday 12 June 2011

· Early Morning Walk Around Ditchling - Wednesday 8 June 2011

· Magham Down and Pevensey Levels - Wednesday 25 May 2011

· Danehill - Sunday 15 May 2011

· Patching - Tuesday 10 May 2011

· Clayton - Monday 2 May 2011

· Rodmell, Northease & Southese - Sunday 22 April 2011

· Holmbury St Mary to Winkworth - Sunday 17 April 2011

· Barcombe Cross, South Chailey Circular - Tuesday 12 April 2011

· Gun Hill, Chiddingly - Sunday 3 April 2011

· Bramber & Steyning - Wednesday 30 March 2011

· Wineham - Sunday 20 March 2011

· Hever to Cowden - Tuesday 15 March 2011

· Newick to Isfield Half Way House - Wednesday 2 March 2011

· Ringmer to Lewes - Sunday 20 February 2011

· Ouse Valley Viaduct - Tuesday 15 February 2011

· Asdown Forest - Sunday 6 February 2011

· Jevington - Sunday 23 January 2011

· Plumpton - Tuesday 18 January 2011

· Crowlink - Sunday 9 January 2011

· Wintry Walks - Christmas to New Year

WALK REPORTS for 2010

· Lewes to Ringmer in the Snow - Tuesday 21 December 2010

· Around Ditchling - Wednesday 8 December 2010

· Devil's Dyke - Sunday 28 November 2010

· South Chailey to Ditchling - Tuesday 23 November 2010

· East of Alfriston - Sunday 14 November 2010

· Firle Beacon - Wednesday 10 November 2010

· Waldron Woodland Wander - Sunday 31 October 2010

· Horsham Riverside Walk - Tuesday 26 October 2010

· Going Cuckoo in Hailsham - Sunday 17 October 2010

· North of Mile Oak - Wednesday 13 October 2010

· Folkington - Tuesday 28 September 2010

· Uckfield - Sunday 19 September 2010

· Norman's Bay - Wednesday 15 September 2010

· Titchfield to Swanwick and Sarisbury - Sunday 5 September 2010

· Ripe - Wednesday 18 August 2010

· Lancing - Sunday 8 August 2010

· Hellingly - Tueday 3 August 2010

· Lanes & Twittens of Lewes - Sunday 25 July 2010

· Around Rye - Tuesday 20 July 2010

· Ditchling Common - Saturday 10 July 2010

· Kingston - Wednesday 27 June 2010

· Lewes to Stanmer Park - Wednesday 23 June 2010

· Clayton - Sunday 13 June 2010

· Mount Harry Circular and Supper - Tueday 8 June 2010

· Breakfast Walk - Saturday 29 May 2010

· Fletching - Sunday 16 May 2010

· Charleston Circular - Tuesday 11 May 2010

· Caterham to Limpsfield Chart and Crockham Hill - Sunday 18 April 2010

· East Hoathly - Tuesday 13 April 2010

· Low Weald between Burgess Hill and Hassocks - Easter Monday 5 April 2010

· Jevington to Wannock Circular - Wednesday 24 March 2010

· Fernhurst (All Day) - Sunday 21 March 2010

· Alfriston - Wednesday 10 March 2010

· Weir Wood Reservoir - Sunday 7 March 2010

· Barcombe Cross - Wednesday 24 February 2010

· Warninglid - Sunday 21 February 2010

· Newhaven - Tuesday 9 February 2010

· Arlington Reservoir - Wednesday 27 January 2010

· Shoreham - Sunday 24 January 2010

· Lewes - Wednesday 13 January 2010

WALK REPORTS for 2009

· River & Downs North of Lewes - Saturday 26 December 2009

· Ashdown Forest - Sunday 13 December 2009

· Seaford to Exceat - Tuesday 8 December 2009

· Kingston - Sunday 29 November 2009

· Tidebrook, Mayfield - Wednesday 25 November 2009

· Catsfield and Battle - Sunday 15 November 2009

· East of Nutley - Wednesday 11 November 2009

· Balcombe to Haywards Heath - Tuesday 27 October 2009

· Crowlink and Belle Toute - Sunday 18 October 2009

· Autumn Tints: Burwash Common - Wednesday 14 October 2009

· Harvest Moon Walk: Housedean to Black Cap to Lewes - Sunday 3 October 2009

· Lewes, Ashcombe, and Blackcap - Sunday 20 September 2009

· River Thames Marlow and Maidenhead to Windsor - Sunday 6 September 2009

· Horstead to Five Ash Down - Sunday 23 August 2009

· Devil's Dyke to Mile Oak - Wednesday 19 August 2009

· Ansty - Sunday 9 August 2009

· Barcombe Walk & Supper - Tuesday 4 August 2009

· Berwick to Glynde - Sunday 26 July 2009

· Fairwarp - Wednesday 22 July 2009

· Coach Outing Cartwell & Emmetts Garden - Wednesday 8 July 2009

· Stonegate - Wednesday 24 June 2009

· Breakfast Walk: Housedean to Lewes - Saturday 13 June 2009

· Nutley to Sheffield Forest - Monday 25 May 2009

· Waldron - Sunday 17 May 2009

· Chailey to Isfield - Wednesday 13 May 2009

· Stour Valley Walks - Sunday 3 May 2009

· Blackboys - Sunday 19 April 2009

· Plumpton - Sunday 5 April 2009

· Balcombe to Haywards Heath AKA: Lewes, Southease, South Downs, Glynde - Tuesday 31 March 2009

· Hadlow Down - Woods and Pastures - Sunday 22 March 2009

· Pycombe - Wednesday 18 March 2009

· High Hurstwood - Sunday 8 March 2009

· Around Cuckfield - Sunday 22 February 2009

· Uckfield to Newick - Wednesday 18 February 2009

· Lewes and Kingston Circular: Walk 5 - Sunday 25 January 2009

· Devils Dyke - Wednesday 21 January 2009

· Ashdown Forest followed by New Year Lunch - Wednesday 14 January 2009

· Ringmer to Mt Caburn back to Lewes - Sunday 11 January 2009

WALK REPORTS for 2008

· Around Henfield - Sunday 14 December 2008

· Autumn Tints Woolbeding - Sunday 2 November 2008

· Wivelsfield to Plumpton Green - Tuesday 28th October 2008

· Horstead Keynes - Sunday 19 October 2008

· Chiddingly - Wednesday 15 October 2008

· Around Scaynes Hill - Wednesday 17 September 2008

· Test Valley Coach Ounting - Sunday 7 September 2008

· Rodmell Bank Hoiliday - Monday 25 August 2008

· Arlington Including Reservoir - Wednesday 20 August 2008

· Ashdown Forest - Sunday 10 August 2008

· Balsdean Valley - Tuesday 5 August July 2008

· Firle Evening Walk - Saturday 26 July 2008

· Forest Row to Hartfield - Wednesday 23 July 2008

· Wiston - Sunday 13 July 2008

· Alfriston - Sunday 29 June 2008

· The Breakfast Walk - Wednesday 25 June 2008

· Bolney - Sunday 15 June 2008

· Kings Standing and Ashdown Forest - Sunday 1 June 2008

· Bishopstone to Lewes - Sunday 18 May 2008

· Small Dole and Fulking - Wednesday 14 May 2008

· Medway Valley - Sunday 4 May 2008

· Ringmer Circular - Wednesday 30 April 2008

· Partridge Green - Sunday 20 April 2008

· Lewes to Falmer - Wednesday 16 April 2008

· Greenwich Meridian Trail. - 6th to 12th April, 2008

· Ditchling and Lower Standean - Tuesday 1 April 2008

· West of Steyning - Monday 24 March 2008

· Albourne Meander - Sunday 9 March 2008

· Newick Circular - Tuesday 4 March 2008

· Tilgate Forest - Wednesday 20 February 2008

· Chiddingley - Wednesday 23 January 2008

· Ditchling - wednesday 16 January 2008

WALK REPORTS for 2007 and before

· Stanmer - Wednesday 26 December 2007

· Rodmell - Wednesday 12 December 2007

· Kingston - Tuesday 27 November 2007

· Walks in 2007 and before. Individual reports are not indexed.

ARCHIVED WALK REPORTS of major walks.

· Ouse Valley in 2006.

· Vanguard Way from Croydon to Newhaven in 2005.

· South Downs Way from Eastbourne to Winchester in 2003 and 2004

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