Plumpton - Wednesday 7 December 2011
We had a clear, sunny day for our walk although there was a keen wind. 18 members took part and we welcomed two new people who hadnt walked with us before. The 166 Countryline bus took us out to Plumpton station and we set off past the race course and Ashurst Organic farm heading towards the Downs for our return walk back to Lewes. The tree formed V planted to celebrate Queen Victorias jubilee was clearly visible high on the slopes as we passed through Plumpton Agricultural college and one of our members told us that it had cost the grand sum of 36 to purchase and plant the trees. We crossed the road by the Half Moon pub and after crossing a field took our coffee break in a wooded area, protected from the wind and with branches to perch on. Then we tackled the long slow climb up to Blackcap encouraged by the amazingly clear views that unfolded as we climbed. It was then downhill all the way, with the wind behind us. Various walkers peeled off to their homes as we descended into Lewes but about a dozen of us enjoyed lunch at the Pelham Arms. The walk was led by Janet.

Steyning - Sunday 27 November 2011
A group of 15 of us left the North St car park in Lewes in wet and windy weather but by the time we had got to Steyning, where the walk was to start from, blue sky was beginning to appear through the clouds and the sun came out. The walk took us along the charmingly named Mouse Lane climbing upwards through Court Plantation eventually coming out onto the South Downs Way. By now the sun was fully out and the wind from the South West was pleasantly warm. The views across to the coastline were spectacular with the sunshine on the sea making it sparkle. We could see the Seven Sisters in the distance and if it hadnt been so hazy, we might have caught a glimpse of the Isle of Wight. We then went down into a valley to then climb up Monarchs Way, allegedly the route Charles II took when he was escaping to France after his defeat at the Battle of Worcester. From the highest point of the walk came the steep and rather slippery descent into the outskirts of Steyning. A traditional Sunday lunch followed at the Star Inn. The walk was led by Heather.

Berwick to Polegate (Changed to Southease) - Tuesday 22 November 2011
Checking the weather forecast the night before a walk is a common place thing for any group leader to do but on this occasion the BBC had issued a weather yellow warning of dense fog that was unlikely to clear that day. A decision was made to abandon the planned walk that Grace had been unable to reconnoitre and substitute one with which she was familiar, from Lewes to Southease station and get the train back. It was a good decision. Taking the new path through Priory Park, the ruins of Lewes Priory loomed out of the mist, paths across the fields could not be seen for more than a few yards ahead nor could their exits through hedges, and their direction had to be recalled from memory. It was warm so we shed layers of clothing. We walked through two villages, Iford and Rodmell with barely enough visibility to recognise where we were. The hazy sun tried to break through the mist creating mysterious shapes with the trees. The earth was slippery with wet brown leaves and fallen apples, truly the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness. Southease was safely reached with a welcome train ride home.

Kingston - Sunday 13 November 2011
We were blessed with a perfect autumn day for our Sunday circular walk from Lewes to Kingston. Twenty people joined Graham and Jill for their favourite walk taken from the Group's publication 'Favourite Walks in and around Lewes', which can be purchased from the Tourist Information Centre. We left the town via Juggs Lane and thence to Kingston Ridge for the steady climb to the South Downs Way. A short break was enjoyed here to catch our breath and to admire the view in all directions. The descent was made using Drencher Road which leads down to Swanborough. Here we diverted from the published route, making a left turn beside a barn to emerge in Kingston village before following the path alongside the school. Upon reaching Spring Barn Farm half the group decided to stop off for lunch while the remainder continued back to Lewes following the Cockshut stream and using the tunnel under the by-pass to reach Southover High Street.

Fletching - Wednesday 18 November 2011
18 of us set out on a circular walk from Fletching. Setting off down the High Street, through the Churchyard and along Church Street, we soon came to the cricket pitch. After a couple of stiles we were away from the village and in fields without a house in sight. The winter wheat was sprouting in some of the fields whilst others appeared to be fallow. We were surprised to walk across a grass landing strip, complete with landing lights. It looked quite bumpy but tyre marks showed it was in use.

Crossing the A272 carefully we walked alongside fields and woods. The autumn colours were wonderful. Oak and Sweet Chestnut seemed to be the predominant trees and some picked up chestnuts no doubt to make the Christmas stuffing when they got home. There were pheasants to be seen and heard everywhere, with feeding stations and cover left for them in the middle of fields.

We joined a lane and crossed Sharps Bridge with water height indicators on the side of the road and an elevated walkway for when the floods came.

The entrance to Newick village was across grassy parkland and into the churchyard before walking through the village and out the other side, picking up a path with the steeple of Fletching church in sight. The path ends in someones garden before we joined the road and then about half a mile of uphill walking to return to Fletching and lunch. Gordon and Eileen led the walk

Fulking - Sunday 30 October 2011
From warm summer days to dank, dismal autumn in just a few days, that is our weather in a nutshell. At the same time, the autumn colours have really begun to shine. Fourteen walkers set off from the car park of The Shepherd and Dog at Fulking to tackle the north face of the South Downs up a steep path that, after twenty minutes of effort, brought us to the top where the brisk wind from the west and the mizzle in the air was far less unpleasant than one could have imagined. As we climbed higher into the low cloud, the front and back walkers almost lost touch, visibility was down to 100 yards. The mast at Truleigh Hill was barely seen. The views were non-existent. A short break was taken in the day room of the Youth Hostel at Tottington Barn before we started our descent to the road next to Tottington Manor. Turning east in Longlands Wood, full of wonderful smells and colour, we returned to Fulking along typical Low Weald paths that were just beginning to show how muddy they will become as the weather becomes more wintery. Some walkers departed and some walkers arrived for the afternoon loop of the walk, which was much less strenuous. Walking north took us to the A281 and then Holmbush Lane where an obtuse quiz tested powers of observation and speeded an otherwise tedious section. By this time the threatened rain was trying to assert itself and the South Downs were smothered in cloud. This interesting and pleasant walk, led by Hilda and Graham, ended at just the right moment.

Pictures by Graham....

Wicklands, Shortgate, Roes Hill, Isfield - Tuesday 25 October 2011
We took the bus to Wicklands on the busy Uckfield road and as there was no verge or footpath there, had to quickly scramble over a stile into the safety of the field beyond. This was only made possible by the dedicated efforts of o ur leader, Grace, who, mindful of the groups safety, had the day before cleared the overgrown stile of brambles, bushes and nettles.

We took a pleasant low level Wealden walk through a patchwork of large arable fields, pasture and woodland, skirting Bentley Wild Fowl Reserve and coming out at Shortgate on the B2192. The weather was warm. Some unploughed fields were profuse with the white flowers of mayweed, misled into believing it was summer and still growing through the maize stubble. But blue sloe berries on bushes with yellowing leaves, and thousands of fallen acorns indicated it really was autumn. We ended coming through Plashett Park, now thankfully saved from the threat of the Reservoir, out onto the A26 in time for refreshment at the Half Way House before rejoining the bus.

Harvest Moon Walk - Saturday 15 October 2011
Bert led the Harvest Moon walk. We caught the 6.30pm bus to Falmer and then went North onto the Downs. At first there was no moon to guide us and we just had the light of the new Football Stadium behind us, but then, magically, at about 7.30 pm a beautiful red Harvest Moon suddenly arose to light our way. As we walked to Blackcap the moon gradually rose higher in the sky and from there on the way back to Lewes became clearer. It was an exciting and different walk.

Christ's Hospital and Itchingfield - Wednesday 12 October 2011
Robert organised our walk to Christ's Hospital and Itchingfield. First we took the train to Christs Hospital station, from where we had a 7 mile circular walk. Parts of the walk were along the Downs Link path which utilises the old railway lines from Horsham to both Guildford and Shoreham. The lunch stop was taken at Itchingfield Church where the organist was having a practice when the group arrived. On the way back a good view was had of Christs Hospital school and playing fields but before this we had a close encounter with a solitary bull in a field, always a dangerous situation. Fortunately we were able to find an alternative route nearby. We all enjoyed the walk although there was no tea shop to be seen at the end of it!!

Nutley & Sheffield Forest - Sunday 2 October 2011
Graham and Hilda led this walk through Sheffield Forest and the Nutley area. Walking in the woods can be a mixed blessing, one tree ends up looking like any other tree, and a lot of trees can spoil the view, but on the second hottest October day ever recorded, the benefits were clear, we were walking in the shade. Striking north-west from Bell Lane, 32 of us climbed steadily through Juniper Woods and skirted Masketts Wood before reaching the top of an anonymous hill that afforded panoramic views of the South Downs ahead. It was only 11 oclock but the sun was already gently roasting us. A leisurely break was taken by one of the many dammed lakes strung out along the Annwood Brook. This stream eventually runs into the lakes at Sheffield Park Gardens. We returned to our starting point through more of those blessed, shady woods. We were lucky; it was the right walk for the day and very enjoyable too.

Newhaven to Alfriston - Wednesday 28 September 2011
An Indian summer and temperatures of 21F blessed the Lewes Footpaths walkers for their all day walk to Alfriston. It was a walk of visual contrasts. The calm waters of the River Ouse at Newhaven with the sculptured cormorant by Christian Funnel posing on a jetty; the business of the level crossing, the barren wastes of concrete and wire mesh of the industrial site and the peace and beauty of the dry valleys of the Downs.

The footpath led through the Ouse Estuary Reserve, home of the crested newts and then crossed the A25 to Fox Hole Farm, where tucked in a coomb, horses were being groomed and a travelling farrier was shoeing a horse. We reached the top of a rise and could stop to look down on Newhaven. The harbour wall stretched out to sea, the houses were staggered up the hillside and to the right was the curved roof of the new incinerator, echoing the shape of the Downs but looking enormous in comparison to the buildings of the town...

From here we took a descending grassy track to the little hamlet of Norton, once the kennels and stables of the Tudor house of the Pelhams at Bishopstone. From here we climbed to Devils Rest. We were in the heart of arable down land of brown fields and ploughed stubble. This ancient track ended at a newly harrowed field and the path had gone. Walking in single file we trod a new one and came out at the stile on the lane. Heading downhill through a flower rich path to picnic in the shade of some trees, we could hear shooting and there stretching across a field, in the direction we were taking, was a line of beaters. A pheasant escaped over our heads and whistles shrilled to call in the dogs and end of the shoot. Refreshed, we headed up the Greenway to the South Downs long distance path and were rewarded with hazy views of the Weald and from there it was downhill all the way to Alfriston.

Pictures by Graham....

Wivelsfield - Sunday 18 September 2011
On a dry, cloudy Sunday morning, 11 members set off for an easy 5 mile walk round Wivelsfield and Wivelsfield Green. Starting from the Royal Oak car park, we made our way along field edges to Eastern Lane. We followed a path through West Wood, leading to the old drove-way, Lashmir drive, with pigs in an enclosure alongside. As we paused to admire distant views of the Downs, a lone white Admiral butterfly settled on someones hand. We crossed a busy country lane and followed a shady bridleway, crunchy with beech masts and acorns under foot. In this peaceful spot we took a coffee stop sitting on conveniently placed felled trees. After the rains, plenty of fungi had appeared.
Crossing further fields, we reached the outskirts of Wivelsfield Green and followed North Common Road, where the path took an unusual turn into a yard of builders yard. We continued on this path to Slugwash Lane and passed close to Wivelsfield Church. Then a surprise, ahead of us was a large flock of stately, many coloured alpacas; the few that had been shorn stared at us with stunning meer-cat-likeeyes. We continued towards Ote Hall Farm, and around Ote Hall Wood where a bonfire was already taking shape for Nov. 5th. We crossed a footbridge leading to a path past Bethel Baptist Church and the main road at the end of the walk. We sat outside in the warm sunshine for a delicious pub lunch.

Groombridge - Tuesday 13 September 2011
Groombridge was the starting point for our mid-week walk. Eleven people enjoyed a ramble on a sunny morning which took them over the Spa Valley railway and around the impressive Harrisons Rocks, complete with the usual posse of climbers on them. The Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk and the River Grom were also followed and they eventually led us to the lovely moated Groombridge Place and our starting point once more.

Cranbrook & Iden Green to Tenterden - Sunday 4 September 2011
33 members enjoyed our final coach trip this year on a day out in Kent. One party walked from Cranbrook via Beneden to Tenterden, and another party from Iden Green to Tenterden. These walks were delightfully varied through apple orchards, small woods, meadows with grazing sheep and many harvested fields. Another five members visited the National Trust property of Smallhythe Place a half-timbered house built in the early 16th century when Smallhythe was a thriving shipbuilding yard. From 1899 to 1928 it was the home of actress Ellen Terry and contains her theatre collection and the working Barn Theatre which provided a most interesting visit, after which, they returned to tour Tenterden. A further two members spent the day on the Kent & East Sussex Railway travelling to Bodiam and back. Bert Sharp arranged the day which was much enjoyed.

Etchingham - Monday 29 August 2011
On Bank Holiday Monday, 24 of us went further afield than usual to Etchingham on the River Rother. After crossing the river, we followed one of its tributaries, the River Limden for a while before crossing further streams, and climbed through woods which had a distinctly Autumn touch to them. After skirting Hurst Green, we eventually made our way back to the Rother and the railway line before crossing back to the church and the station car park. The walk was led by Jill and Graham.

Ashdown Forest - Sunday 21 August 2011
A group of 24 walkers led by Heather, started a beautiful ramble from the Hindleap car park near Wych Cross to explore part of the Ashdown Forest. Hindleap is one of the highest points on Ashdown Forest and the views towards the Downs in the distance are exceptional. We walked through a mixture of heath and woodland and passed Birchgrove House, the home of Harold Macmillan, the former British Prime Minister. We then navigated a fairly steep path with a raised bank on the right. This was originally the ancient medieval 'pale' boundary of Ashdown Forest, erected to keep the deer within this royal hunting area. We then found ourselves in open fields where we took a much needed break before going through Twyford Farm and into more woods. The last part of the walk was in open heathland with splendid views of the heather in various shades of mauve, pink and purple against a backdrop of vibrant green ferns. This was a very pleasant walk through beautiful scenery but fairly strenuous with several hills and rough underfoot in places.

Pulborough to Amberley - Tuesday 16 August 2011
After travelling by train to Pulborough, we set out to walk to Amberley, mostly along the Wey-South Path. After a brief climb, we passed a WW2 gun emplacement, walked through woods and dropped down to Stopham Bridge, a 15th century Grade One ancient monument, somewhat spoiled by the new bridge built beside it. The rest of the route stayed in the marshy land of the valley of the River Arun, criss-crossed with drainage ditches. At Greatham Bridge we hunkered down out of the wind for our picnic lunch, next to a large clump of balsam with its sickly, sweet scent. At Amberely, full of pretty cottages, there was sufficient time to visit the church but, as we lingered longer than we should have, we reached the platform with only three minutes to spare before the train arrived. The weather was warm, even humid at times, and the scenery was lovely. This was an excellent walk away from our usual territory. Graham and Hilda led the 17 walkers but the credit should go to Bert, who found the walk and worked out the travel arrangements.

Laughton - Sunday 7 August 2011
22 people enjoyed our walk at Laughton led by Jeannette. We walked through Laughton Churchyard and on through the delightful wood at the back and then followed fields and lanes to the main Laughton road. After crossing the road we were soon in the woods following a path which led to beautiful lily pond where we took a coffee break. The late Summer flowers were much admired further along the path which eventually took us to Brickyard Pond and then across fields before emerging at the Post Office and a short walk through this beautiful village took us back to our starting point.

Litlington - Wednesday 3 August 2011
On a very hot and humid day, a walk in the cool of the evening was just the thing to end the day. Graham Heap led seventeen walkers along the Cuckmere River in a fresh breeze from the west. A heron fishing on the opposite bank, lazily flew further downstream after we disturbed it, but then seemed to carry on, untroubled by our presence. A white egret flew off and perched on top of a large bush. At the White Horse, grey in the shadow cast by the evening sun, we turned east, walked past Charleston Manor and into Charleston Bottom, a dry valley that somehow manages to look like a disused railway line. The valley floor was covered in bright yellow ragwort. Perhaps there were as many as fifteen to twenty other species of wild flower to be seen as we climbed up the track through Friston Forest, including the stately Rose-bay Willowherb and the vivid blue Vipers Bugloss. At the top, we were rewarded with wide, hazy views over The Weald and the sight of the setting sun lighting up low swirly clouds over The Downs above Alfriston, in a magical red glow. A beautiful Summers evening walk.

Barcombe - Tuesday 19 July 2011
Again using public transport, this time for a walk at Barcombe, ten of us duly got off the bus at Barcombe Cross. Two and a half hours later, we arrived at The Halfway House at Rose Hill. In between times we had enjoyed a very pleasant walk in the Ouse Valley. For the first part of the walk we followed the Greenwich Meridian Trail before turning right through Knowlands Wood and took our coffee stop by the beautiful pond at Knowlands Farm, in the company of a well behaved (metal) stag. Dallas Lane took us to the banks of the River Ouse, we crossed over at White Bridge, walked through Isfield and then across the fields to The Halfway House, where some caught the early bus back to Lewes and some stayed for a pub lunch, where it was warm enough to sit outside. Graham Heap led the walk and took this picture of the Stag at Bay (?) at Knowlands Farm.

Petworth and Canal Cruise - Wednesday 13 July 2011
Thirty four members enjoyed their mid-summer coach trip. Setting off from Lewes we arrived at the New Lodge entrance to Petworth Park from where about twenty members began a short but interesting walk through this beautiful 700 acre undulating Deer park with its many majestic trees and views of the surrounding countryside including the South Downs. The park was originally landscaped by Lancelot Capability Brown and is presently home to the largest herd of Fallow Deer in the country. The walkers ultimately reached Petworth House to join the remainder of the party who had been visiting the vast late 17th century mansion, enjoying its architecture and the fine collection of paintings including numerous works by Turner, Van Dyck, Reynolds, and Blake.

The group having lunched at the house travelled to Loxwood to join the Zachariah Keppel a 50 ft converted narrowboat that can carry 30 passengers to cruise part of the Wey & Arun Canal. This historic waterway of Surrey and Sussex was originally constructed to provide a safe access from Portsmouth to London. Four members walked the Towpath there and back of which two ladies, in their earlier years, had operated locks on the River Thames and demonstrated their skills by assisting a member of the Wey & Arun Canal staff to operate the locks on this stretch of the canal.

On completion of the cruise the party travelled to Alfold to enjoy a scrumptious tea provided by a group of Alfold ladies after which we returned to Lewes, ending a perfect day,s outing.

Berwick - Saturday 9 July 2011
Our walk around Berwick started from Bo-Peep and the South Downs Way before heading downhill to the old Coach Road. We soon reached Berwick Church where picnic teas were enjoyed and the beautiful interior of the church was much admired again. We then followed the Vanguard Way across fields before the climb back to the ridge. Up here, we had quite an effort to battle our way against the wind to reach the car park once more.

West St Leonards to Crowhurst - Wednesday 6 July 2011
Taking the train sometimes allows us to be a little more adventurous in our walks and this was the case recently when 13 of us took the train to West St. Leonards and walked from there to Crowhurst.

Just a few minutes after we had left the town we were walking up the lovely Filsham valley where the impressive new school was much admired. A coffee break was taken at a point where there were good views across Combe Haven and towards a huge landraise site at Pebsham. Before long, we were walking along beside it and could see that it was nearing its capacity. We continued along the lovely Pebsham Country Park and eventually joined the Bexhill link of the 1066 Country Walk. The walk continued to Crowhurst village and then the gradual climb along the approach road to the station where we were in good time to catch a train back to St. Leonards and after changing there, to Lewes.

Chailey Common with Supper - Tuesday 21 June 2011
Thirteen walkers set off from Pound Common at Chailey for an evening walk followed by supper. The weather was kind to us and despite the rain of recent days; the ground was not muddy as feared, although there were a couple of large puddles to negotiate. With only three stiles and a flat walk, the going was easy.

The evening sun made the countryside look wonderful with a profusion of wild flowers and the birds singing. The route was varied, starting with heath land then a mixture of woods and fields. We were intrigued to see first sheep, then cows with very long horns on Townings Farm. The sweet corn was at last showing sign of growth following the recent rain. Rabbits were grazing in the final field before we returned to the heath and the end of the walk.

After the walk we took supper at the Five Bells

West Hoathly - Sunday 12 June 2011
Despite the inclement weather 17 members of Lewes Footpaths Group took part in a circular walk from West Hoathly recently. After passing the site of the former West Hoathly station they went through New Coombe Farm and the Guide Association's camp site at Blackland Farm before coming to Weir Wood reservoir. A short road walk past Willet's bridge soon took them to the rocks at Stone Hill where there was a short break. Passing on through Mill Farm a free range dog decided to join the party which took a route through Bushy Wood, and Warren's Wood to the perimeter of Gravetye Manor. The walk then concluded by ascending the hill to West Hoathly garage, where after a phone call the errant dog was reunited with its owner, before we returned to the car park.

Early Morning Walk Around Ditchling - Wednesday 8 June 2011
Once every year we have a Breakfast Walk and last week eleven members enjoyed the recent early morning circular walk from Ditchling. Setting off from the village hall car park around 7.30am, we began by taking a footpath between houses on Lewes Road to cross fields and woods to reach Underhill Lane. Here began the ascent, steep in places, to Ditchling Beacon, with views admired along the way as well as at the summit. It was a rather windy morning and so the refreshment stop was delayed briefly until we had left the South Downs Way and begun the descent to Westmeston. It was much more sheltered here in a hollow strewn with many wild flowers, including two varieties of orchid. Back down at the junction of Underhill Lane and Lewes Road we continued on a path adjacent to the main road before crossing fields and woodland to the edge of Ditchling. We returned to the car park by way of the impressively large recreation ground and paths through areas of housing. We had been grateful for the solid structure of stiles and bridges, installed by The Monday Group, which we encountered along the way, noticeably different from a couple of narrow, rickety ones near the end of the walk. The majority stayed to enjoy a well-cooked breakfast at the Ditchling Tearooms.

Magham Down and Pevensey Levels - Wednesday 25 May 2011
It is a challenge to be asked to lead a walk in a new area by the programme organiser, to comply with the restrictions of time, to be aware of safety issues and to meet ones own requirements of seeing natural beauty, discovering new places and having an enjoyable companionable time. The walk on 25th May in the area between Magham Down, Wartling, Hooe and Boreham Street met all these needs and exceeded all expectations.

Using Ordinance Survey map 124 in the Explorer Series, it was possible to walk the Pevensey Levels, an area of flat beauty with vast open sky scapes, once salt marshes but now crisscrossed by dykes and drainage ditches with the intriguing names of Hurst Haven and Whelpley Sewer. Some of the marshes are nature reserves managed by the Sussex Wild Life Trust and these are in accessible to the public.

We were blessed with perfect walking weather, warm and sunny with a fresh cooling breeze. The paths I chose took us from the low ground towards Herstmonceux, the tall steeple of the church a valued landmark . I always wondered at the unusual name of this village; apparently herst means a light wood on dry ground and Monceaux was the place in Normandy from which the Monceux family came. In the Middle ages the village surrounded the church but in 1441 the area became the hunting park of the castle and the settlement was forced to move north. We followed the 1066 Country Walk through a wood and emerged to have splendid views of the red brick Castle contrasting with the Greenwich Observatory Dome. Walking south we stopped for welcome refreshment at The Lamb, Wartling. Then, at a brisk pace we took the Horse Walk to Horse Bridge and on to Hooe Church, a beautiful ancient church surrounded by a grave yard asway with daisies. From there we once again trod the Levels, crossing Waller Haven at Hogtrough Bridge and then on to Boreham Street and the bus back to Magham Down.

Most of the large fields on Pevensey Levels were grazed with large flocks of sheep and lambs, or cattle but on the higher ground the fields are under cultivation showing the blue/green leaves of wheat, the graceful swaying gold/green stalks of long eared barley and though the ground was cracked with drought, newly planted maize.

Danehill - Sunday 15 May 2011
Wolfgang led a 6 mile ramble from Horstead Keynes to Danehill and back. Leaving Horstead Keynes along Church Lane we were soon in woods with streams, a very beautiful area. We followed a footpath across the grounds of Cumnor House School before turning South through a wooded area. Invisible to us, people were shooting clay-pigeons in a nearby field (so we hoped!!). Nevertheless, we safely reached Collingford Farm Estate in Danehill.
After walking through this pleasant village we headed for Butchers Barn and the Sussex Border Path which took us past Latchetts and through Sandpits Wood. We were soon back in Horstead Keynes where some of us enjoyed a hearty lunch at the Green Man Pub where the speed of their excellent service amazed us.

Patching - Tuesday 10 May 2011
Seven walkers enjoyed a mid-week walk at Patching recently. The conditions were excellent for walking; the weather was dry and sunny, no mud under foot, walking mainly on level ground, fine views, few stiles to negotiate and many shady spots to keep us cool. We started the walk heading north on the lane beside The Fox public house on the outskirts of Patching. On leaving the lane we soon entered Angmering Park following tracks that took us up to the Monarchs Way and the halfway point. Here we took coffee beside one of the many large wood-stacks that lined the track. On leaving the wooded area of Angmering Park the views opened up as we dropped down through Patching village. The final leg took us through a mixture of woods and open fields to arrive back at the starting point. Dave led the walk.

Clayton - Monday 2 May 2011
The walk on Bank Holiday Monday, led by Janet, started off from Clayton with a very steep ascent to the Jack & Jill windmills at the top of the downs which was the hardest climb of the day. After that our paths were mainly undulating and we enjoyed glorious views of downland in all its green, springtime splendour. Our route continued up a flint track to pick up the South Downs Way which took us down an enclosed bridleway beside Pycombe golf course. After crossing the A273 we turned up through Pycombe village and on through a tree and shrub tunnel then through a gate to a convenient bank where we took our coffee stop. A descending track took us round the flank of Wolstonbury Hill then past Hautboyes and Coldharbour Farm. We finished the walk on a partially enclosed path parallel to the railway line emerging at the roadside opposite the imposing crenellated entrance to Clayton Tunnel Some of us went off to the Jack & Jill pub for lunch while others enjoyed a picnic in the recreation ground.

Rodmell, Northease & Southese- Sunday 22 April 2011
The beautifully warm and sunny weather was an added bonus for our Good Friday afternoon walk which attracted thirty people, including four who had not walked with us before. We took the train to Southease and, having strolled through the village, took the newly opened permissive footpath to Rodmell. From here we continued to Northease and then up onto the Downs to complete the circle back to Southease. The views in the sunshine were stunning in all directions, reminding us how fortunate we are to live in Sussex. There was time for a leisurely picnic tea on the village green before returning to the station for the journey home. The walk leaders were Graham and Jill.

Holmbury St Mary to Winkworth - Sunday 17 April 2011
We enjoyed the first of our three coach and walk trips which allow us to walk further from home than usual, and, this time, to explore the Greensand Way and the beautiful area around it in Surrey. Two walks were planned, one of 10 and a half miles and one of 6 and a half, both of which finished at the lovely Winkworth Arboretum.

The nine people doing the longer walk started from Holmbury St Mary, just by the 19th century church built by GE Street at his own expense. Climbing out of the valley we soon joined the Greensand Way and with little further effort arrived at Holmbury Hill Iron Age Fort with its fantastic views south over the Surrey plains. Also present were many Mountain Bikers in their go-faster Lycra, helmets and goggles. Soon, the cry of bikes was a regular feature of this section of the walk. After dropping down to the Duke of Kent School, an impressive Victorian Gothic building, we climbed back onto the ridge and soon arrived at Ewhurst Windmill from where the shorter walk started.

With fantastic views and beautiful woods carpeted with bluebells we were sheltered from the increasingly hot sun. The climb up to Thorncombe Street should have been the last one, legs weary by this stage, but at the Arboretum one hundred and seventy steps, straight up the valley, were the final challenge. Our reward was tea and cakes at the National Trust caf. An enjoyable days walking was had by all, arranged by Bert with Graham and Hilda leading the longer walk.

Thanks to Graham for capturing the walk with these fine photographs.

Barcombe Cross, South Chailey Circular - Tuesday 12 April 2011
Jeannette led her favourite walk in place of the advertised walk at Holtye for this mid week ramble. This walk, which features in our publication Favourite walks in and around Lewes and available from the Tourist Office, was a Barcombe Cross, South Chailey circular walk. It was a perfect week to view the Spring flowers. Knowlands Wood was just carpeted with the delicate white Cuckoo flowers and we caught our first glimpse of a copse full of bluebells. We ended the walk passing over the weir at Red Bridge and then admiring the newly built Barcombe Village Hall, before emerging on the road back to Barcombe Cross.

Gun Hill, Chiddingly - Sunday 3 April 2011
The first walk of our Spring Summer Programme was led by Heather and was in the Gun Hill, Chiddingly area of the Weald. It was a perfect time to see the Spring flowers which carpeted the woodland with primroses and the delicate white cuckoo or wind flowers.

Bramber & Steyning - Wednesday 30 March 2011
On Wednesday 30th March members of the group set off to explore the area surrounding the historic town of Bramber. We passed under the overhanging timbers of the 15 C St. Marys House, once an inn for pilgrims on their way to visit the shrine of St. Thomas at Canterbury and now open to the public. Bramber, until the river silted up, was a large port with a quay on the eastside in Beeding. After crossing the river Adur, we walked through a rough, lumpy meadow that once had been the site of saltpans and the salt industry, heading towards the Parish and Priory Church of St Peter. Originally a Saxon settlement, the Norman Baron, William de Braose, resettled the Benedictine monks from Bramber there in a Priory. Set above the flood plain we were able to visit the charming church and then rejoined the river path. The mist gave an aura of mysteriousness to the flat countryside, the views of the distant Downs being hidden. When we stopped for a break, we were intrigued by activity on the next rise; there were pipes with vents at the crest of the hill and a series of boxes at the lower end. What we were looking at was the grassed over landfill site of a former Horton clay pit and the pipes were venting methane gas, a by-product of rotting household waste.

We walked around the deep moat of the Norman Bramber Castle with the dramatic ruin of the gatehouse. The property is owned by the National Trust and access is free. Finally we visited the gem of the chapel, built for the castle surrounded by primroses and daffodils, such a beautiful pre-Easter scene. A warm welcome awaited us with our lunch at the Castle Hotel. The walk was led by Grace.

Wineham - Sunday 20 March 2011
We were lucky once again to have a warm, sunny day for our walk in an area of West Sussex which we have not explored for some time. We began at the historic Royal Oak in Wineham following a circular route to the south which took us across farm land, along bridleways and beside the River Adur. The river in this area meanders quietly through open countryside with the occasional weir and pairs of graceful swans. Spring flowers, including primroses and white violets, were spotted. A brief stop was made on the edge of Twineham to allow those who wished to visit the 16th century church of St Peter. The group of twenty four walkers was led by Graham and Jill and concluded with lunch at the pub for those who wished.

Photos by the other Graham (GH):

Hever to Cowden - Tuesday 15 March 2011
Our last Tuesday walk was certainly a walk with a difference. 17 members first travelled by bus to Uckfield and then caught a train to Hever. It was a completely new area for us to walk in and very beautiful.

The walk first took us to Hever village, passing some very upmarket houses in this part of Kent. The 750 year old church was admired. We passed along the boundary of Hever Castle from where we caught glimpses of the lake. The walk soon followed the Eden Valley long distance path to Hill Hoath where we took a lunch break in glorious sunshine and most felt that we had overdressed for such a warm day!

We then made our way through some muddy woodland to Mark Beech after which it was a short downhill walk through an interesting glade where wild daffodils bloomed in profusion and an early patch of white wood anenomes were spotted. We emerged at Cowden Station, one station down the line from Hever and returned by train and bus as before.

Newick to Isfield Half Way House - Wednesday 2 March 2011
Fifteen walkers enjoyed a sunny but muddy 6-mile walk from Newick to the Half Way House at Rose Hill near Isfield. We took Bus 121 from Lewes Bus Station to the Green at Newick aiming to catch Bus 29 back to Lewes at the end of the walk. Initially we followed footpaths heading south through the built up part of Newick to the school where we entered open country. Continuing in a southerly direction we struggled through the very muddy Cockfield Lane and came close to a high abandoned railway embankment. We decided this must have taken the railway from Barcombe to Sheffield Park. Our route now took a southeasterly bearing. At one point we were greeted by a friendly dog when the footpath passed through his garden. We rested for drinks beside a picturesque pond with waterfall and bridge. We continued through the grounds of Newick Park Hotel managing to make our way across some very deep ruts without incident. Eventually we came to the River Ouse, which we followed to White Bridge where we crossed the river and walked into Isfield. There were no takers for catching the earlier bus home from Isfield Station. The final leg took us to the Half Way House public house where we enjoyed drinks and lunch before catching the 29 bus back to Lewes.

Ringmer to Lewes - Sunday 20 February 2011
An amazing 32 people joined Jeannette for a walk from Ringmer to Lewes. We caught the bus from Lewes alighting at Ringmer, and then made our way through the village to Gote Lane and then took the newly created permissive footpath from New Road to the top of the hills. This is a beautiful path curving round the hillside with lovely views all around. We then entered Southerham Nature Reserve and took a coffee break overlooking Bible Bottom and Oxteddle Bottom, both idyllic places. We carried on, keeping below the Golf Course and eventually emerged at Southerham. After walking through the Industrial estate we took the path beside the river to the Dorset Arms where some of us had lunch. We are always made very welcome there.

Ouse Valley Viaduct - Tuesday 15 February 2011
Many of the twelve walkers wondered about walking, given the awfulness of the weather forecast but were swayed by the fact that it was not actually raining when it was time to leave the house. It was the sort of weather when dew drops form on the end of ones nose. Hilda led us westward from the car park at Ardingly Reservoir and the Balcombe Viaduct soon came into view. The wind was cool and damp but it did not start raining until the forecast time of 12 oclock, by which time we were heading back. The countryside in these parts is quite sublime, even the mud has a special kind of stickiness. Set back on our right was Balcombe Place, a huge Victorian pile; ahead Stone Hall, a quietly perfect brick house of the late 17th century according to Pevsner. Turning south we dropped down into the valley of the River Ouse and followed it to walk under the continually impressive viaduct. A little further down-stream we climbed steeply out of the valley to find the car park again, by which time what little rain there had been had stopped.
It was a very enjoyable walk led by Hilda, and Graham kindly supplied the photos.

Asdown Forest - Sunday 6 February 2011
In spite of the rather grim weather forecast, eighteen walkers turned out for this blowy walk round the part of Ashdown Forest between Uckfield and Crowborough. Alighting from the warm Number 29 bus at The Crow and Gate, we were all struck by how cold the warm westerly wind had become during our journey from Lewes. Crossing the road and striking south, we followed the path through the woods to Stroods, turned north, crossed the A26, and walked up to Barnsgate Manor. Respite from the wind was provided by some more woodland, where a brief coffee stop was taken. Soon after, we joined the Weald Way which took us to Camp Hill Clump and then to the car park at King Standing, with its ever optimistic ice cream van. The splendid views were rather less splendid than usual but the Forest always manages to lift the spirits, somehow. The walk then joined the Vanguard Way back to the start, with a final stiff climb to give us a good appetite for Sunday lunch at the Crow and Gate. Emerging from the warm pub, heated by good old-fashioned log fires, the wind seemed to have become even cooler. The leader, following another excellent walk from The Argus, was Graham Heap.

Jevington- Sunday 23 January 2011
24 people joined Wolfgang on a tough, hilly walk from Jevington on our last Sunday ramble. Starting from Jevington Village car park, the group headed West climbing steadily before dropping down to Friston Forest and Charleston Bottom. After heading north along this valley they reached Lullington Heath Nature Reserve where a few sheep and ponies could be spotted. Leaving the Reserve there was a steep ascent towards Holt Brow where we joined the South Downs Way along with some fast mountain bikers! From here it was downhill and back to Jevington where some enjoyed a hearty lunch at the Eight Bells pub.

Plumpton - Tuesday 18 January 2011
Our walk started from the Half Moon at Plumpton. It was planned out meticulously by Ben Perkins, a retired GP who for years has encouraged people to walk and enjoy Sussex with his articles in the Argus. To our surprise there were llamas in a paddock, well protected by their woolly coats; then the path went through fertile fields sown with winter wheat. Turning north past old clay pits, now fishing lakes, it went through woodland. The morning had started misty but to our delight the sun came out and the wintry landscape took on a new beauty. Shafts of sunlight shone through the woods and stout oak trees with their bare branches were silhouetted against the sky; robins sang making early territorial claim. We walked through Warningore Farm and then around Spooners Farm, an old timber, sandstone and brick building, the path having been officially diverted. There was plenty of variety and interest on the walk, once we turned South, the Downs were in front of us, horses wearing winter covers showed interest as we went into their fields. It had turned warm enough for us to shed our layers of clothing. There was a lot of lying water and some fields were very muddy but we were able to wash it off in the numerous springs. Our path took us back past the ornamental gates of Novington Manor to Plumpton Lane where we saw that the old single storey school house was being renovated for future art exhibitions. The walk was led by Grace.

Crowlink - Sunday 9 January 2011
A breathtakingly beautiful morning, 25 walkers enjoyed a brisk walk around Crowlink and Birling Gap. This is a wonderful area to walk in and was much enjoyed. Keith led the walk.

Wintry Walks - Christmas to New Year
We enjoyed three wintry walks over the holidays. It was so wintry on the first of these that Bert led an improvised walk from Lewes rather than risk cars getting stuck in the snow further afield. With improved but still icy conditions, Grace bravely led our Boxing Day walk around the Downs at Telscombe and we then enjoyed lunch at the Abergavenny Arms at Rodmell. Our New Years Day Walk, led by Keith, took us on a circular downland walk from Glynde, where, halfway on the walk, mincepies magically appeared from his rucksack and were enjoyed by everyone with their coffee.

Lewes to Ringmer in the Snow - Tuesday 21 December 2010
The scheduled walk for Tuesday 21st December was abandoned in favour of a local walk thus avoiding the need to use cars in the snow conditions. Five members braved the cold starting at the bottom of North Street then proceeding by the frozen Pells over Whileys Bridge and on up Church Lane to the Downs alongside the Shaw above the road to Ringmer. On reaching the Electrical Sub Station the party turned north to the intersection of the path from Ringmer Church then turning west to Upper Stoneham and back to Church Lane to Brooks Road ending the walk at the Dorset Arms where the party enjoyed lunch. This walk being led by Bert the Walks Organiser.