Sussex Living April 2021 Walks Emag by Sussex Living

Walks of Sussex

THE BEST OF SUSSEX LIVING!

Welcome to our walks e-mag A message from the Hidden County team… We’re now well and truly into Spring, and what better way to start enjoying the brighter weather than getting out for some stunning country walks? And where better than Sussex, our beautiful county of rolling hills, stunning beaches and gorgeous landmarks! But where to start? Well, hopefully we can help. Our April e-magazine is all about celebrating the great outdoors, so we’ve compiled our favourite walks from Sussex Living over the years into one bumper edition! From the views of the Seven Sisters to the rural beauty of the South Downs, we hope you enjoy trying our selections!

Our expert walker Robert Veitch has tested the route personally, making sure it is suitable for walking. However, even he cannot guarantee the effects of the weather, or roadworks, or any other factors outside of his control. If you would like to send your feedback about a local walk, please email editorial@sussexliving.com

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Barcombe Mills Walk Grab some stout footwear and then with a skip and spring in your stride, make the most of warmer days and lighter evenings with our walk around Barcombe Mills and along the River Ouse

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his walk is a good stomp, feeling at times like a long yomp, but it’s pan flat and well worth the effort. From the Barcombe Mills car park, walk west under the giant oak towards the narrow road. Follow the road over Pikes Bridge and the Andrews Stream, past the fish ladder, around the weir pool and then across the old toll bridge. Wander down the drive opposite the old toll bridge, turning left at the T-junction. Follow the concrete roadway until the path bears right by the silo. Across the far side of the field, take the steps down to, and across the trackbed of the old railway line. Look left and the old station is in the distance. It closed in 1969 as part of Uckfield to Lewes line. Up the other side and through a narrow gap, keep the hedge on the right and follow the path all the way to the road. Turn right at the road and after 25m the fingerpost will point the way ahead, across the field to the distant gap in the hedge. A buzzard was circling overhead when we tested the route, gracefully surfing the skies.

Through the gap turn right and walk adjacent to the hedge for 200m, before the fingerpost indicates the route turns left, across the field to the beam bridge in the distance. Once across the bridge and over the Bevern Stream, the path cuts across a small field to a 5-bar metal side gate. Beyond this gate, turn right immediately, walking between the hedges, before turning left at the base of the wooden steps. The path runs

The breeze whistles through the remains of a bygone age. parallel to the old railway for almost 400m before clinging to the northern rim of the field for 200m until a gap in the hedge appears. Once through the gap, turn left and follow the perimeter of the field clockwise for about 175m before passing through another gap in the hedge on the left. Repeat the process in the next field, but carry on

until the path meets the road. Turn right and walk along the road for just over 200m. A blue arrow on a telegraph pole indicates that the route is through the pair of metal gates on the left and along the bridleway beyond, known as Blunt’s Lane. Initially, the bridleway is quite wide, bordered by hedges and ancient oaks. It’s squelchy in places and readers will be pleased they wore the right footwear. It flicks left and then flicks right about half way along. Keep going as far as the brick pillbox at Blunt’s Green. Veer left at the pillbox towards the large oak with a footpath marker nailed to it. Follow the line of trees, all the way to the northern edge of the

Distance: 5 miles Walk Time: 2¼-3 hours Footwear: Walking boots or wellingtons are recommended, it’s muddy in places Stiles: 3

field. Longford Stream will be on the right. About 30m beyond the metal gate and down a muddy slope, Overs Bridge crosses the stream. Once across, stride out towards the distant gates and bridge, passing a well-fenced sapling in the middle of the field. Access to White Bridge is via gates or stiles. Crossing the River Ouse, note it’s the most northerly point of the walk and rejoice because now, it’s south all the way. Take the stile on the right and hug the riverbank to the next stile and the stile after that. The shadow of the path can be seen in the grass as it makes a beeline across the fields, past a solitary swing, all the way to a distant kissing gate. As the River Ouse meanders to the right, follow it to the furthest right of the three railway bridges. Passing under the girders, a solitary tree has grown up between them, branches reaching out for the light above. False memories of the 5:15 from Lewes to Eridge are easy to imagine as the breeze whistles through remains of a bygone age. Some hope this line will re-open one day.

Elevation Gain: ? Calorie Burn: Approximately 650kcal Map: Ordnance Survey OL11 and OL25 Refreshments: One pub en route Parking: Free parking at Barcombe Millls

Keeping the ever-widening river on the right, follow it all the way to the bridge by the pub. Cross the bridge and follow the short coniferous hedge to its far end, before turning left and heading towards the kissing gate by the sluice gates. The River Ouse is now on the left. Continue through another small gate, just across the river from a swinging seat. The path bears left at the pillbox and then follows a new fence-line to a driveway. Walk along the driveway opposite for 50m before turning left behind the corrugated building and cross the river once again. Hug the riverbank all the way to the kissing gate, which is actually the southern tip of an island. With the River Ouse on both sides the path narrows, but do not worry, this is not the end of the line or the highway to hell, because there is a bridge across the river a little further on. Once across the bridge, turn right and follow the river to another kissing gate. It may be soft underfoot. Beyond the kissing gate the sound of distant falling water will begin to emanate. Walk towards the sound, then across the bridge. Turn right and follow the path back to Pikes Bridge and the road from where we began. It’s time for the journey home, then tea and cake, and probably a medal too! l SUSSEX LIVING 5

UCKFIELD TO NEWICK

WALK This month our resident wayfarer, Robert Veitch was sent on a solivagant mission, trekking the wonderfully varied footpaths en route from Uckfield to Newick

eave Uckfield bus station, trotting north over Bellfarm Road at the pelican crossing. Turn left and walk west, past the fire station, turning 90° right at the allotments and 90° left shortly after. Follow the footpath for just over 300m, all the way to the playing fields. Head north past the playground and football pitches, traffic noise diminishing behind as the playing fields narrow ahead, eventually joining Calvert Road. Turn left, then right into Egles Grove, bearing left by the truncated oak into the 27 acres of West Park Local Nature Reserve. The route arcs left, beyond the giant oak towards the boardwalk. Swing right at the end of the second boardwalk, wandering uphill between two huge slabs of sandstone, to the kissing gate and road. 6 SUSSEX LIVING

Cross the road and turn left, walking towards oncoming traffic. On the right, just before the bridge is a kissing gate. It leads to a glorious gem, an arboreal wonderland, and a sandstone stunner – this oasis is Lake Wood. It’s well worth taking 15-20 minutes to lap the lake, clockwise or anticlockwise, the path leads back from whence you came. Immediately across the bridge, turn right at the ‘Wealden Walks’ sign, then left at the green fingerpost 50m later. The path brushes the rhododendrons as it heads downhill, skirting the scrub at the bottom, all the way to concurrent bridges crossing the Shortbridge Stream. The path cuts straight across the field, kinking left on the far side when entering the adjacent field. Head for the barns, passing rusting farm machinery along the way. The first stile of the day lands

on the Fairhazel tarmac. Follow it for 350m, as far as the road junction. Enter the woods across the road, the path snaking a way with twists and turns, emerging into the light behind the 12th tee of the golf course. The path slices around to the right, joining the 13th fairway by a post. Turn left and hug the edge of the fairway as far as the tee, and water fountain behind. Alas, the fountain doesn’t work! The three-way fingerpost points right, downhill across the fairway and into the woods. A small bridge crosses the stream, beside a yew tree. Over the other

The work of Shanks’s pony is done; Relax in the scenery while waiting for the bus… side, follow the fence to the drive, and the drive to the road. The A272 through Piltdown should be crossed with care, before turning right and following the path, lined with stakes resembling a rustic pavement. Across the grass, take the gate to the left of the coniferous hedge. Across the track and stile the path twists left and enters a sea of silver birches, heading due north for about 500m, arriving at a gate made from a single metal bar. Turn left and walk down the drive,

to the pair of 6ft gates. Beyond these, head downhill, over the stile, across the paddock, over another stile and along the hedge-lined avenue to a stile in the bottom left corner of the field. Bear right and after crossing the next stile, trek across the field and navigate the bridge. Keep to the edge of the field, uphill through the pair of metal gates, around a second field and into a third. Beyond the silo an old kissing gate leads into the graveyard. Turn left and follow the path between lichen-covered gravestones, a solemn tranquility. Arriving at Fletching High Street, turn left, then right into Mill Lane by the War Memorial. Just after the raised pathways and bridges across the River Ouse take the gate on the left. Over the subsequent stile, follow the brick wall leading round to the right. Beyond the gates, keep left of the hedge and walk towards the power lines. An 8-bar gate opens into another field, a stile beyond and a brace of bridges within the wood. Beyond the trees, wander uphill through young verdant spring crops to the concrete drive. Turn right and after 200m, turn left into Alexander Mead. The road bends right and the path resumes at the end. Turn left and after 200m Newick Green appears. The work of Shanks’s pony is done; relax in the scenery while waiting for the bus… l

Distance: 7 miles Walk Time: 2½ - 3 hours Stiles: 8 Map: Explorer 135 Refreshments: Take your pick in Uckfield and Newick

Buses: Service #31 hourly, Monday to Saturday in both directions, between Newick and Uckfield Parking: Free parking at Luxford Field in Uckfield and on Newick Green

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HENFIELD

WALK

pass between a pair of concrete blocks. A whisker over a third of a mile later there’s a kissing gate and fingerpost on the left. Beyond this, it’s a short trot to the top of the levee and the eastern arm of the River Adur. It was familiar territory for Jo who recalled spending time in the area in her youth, “Such lovely views, so rural,” she observed. It’s a pleasant southwesterly amble with a far-reaching vista towards Chanctonbury Ring. Remember there may be livestock in the fields and they should be treated with respect. After

It’s a pleasant southwesterly amble with a far-reaching vista ½ a mile there’s a confluence with the western Adur. The river is tidal here, and barely ten miles from the sea. Keep following the riverside path downstream, and an eye out for some of the swans that call this landscape home. There’s a wooden footbridge after half a mile and ¾ of a mile after that, is the ‘Take 5’ bench. “Well worth a rest,” noted Jo. Two stiles in quick succession precede Bineham Bridge. Continue southeasterly, over another stile, and the panorama should begin to open up. Atop the distant South Downs from west to east are the summits of Truleigh

With longer days and warmer evenings on the horizon, we sent Robert Veitch and one of Sussex Living’s designers, Jo Grey on a late afternoon stroll around Henfield and the surrounding countryside

rom the car park, walk along Coopers Way to the High Street, then turn right and walk north. Cross at the pelican crossing, then turn left into Church Street. There’s an eclectic mix of housing on either side as a succession of side roads are crossed; Craggits Lane, Chestnut Way, Martyn Close, Parsonage Road and then Church Lane. It’s worth pausing for the view of St Peter’s Church. Jo rejoiced at the rows of beautifully maintained yew trees. Continue west along 8 SUSSEX LIVING

what is now Upper Station Road, passing Hacketts Lane, Broomfield Road, Fabians Way, Faircox Lane, Staples Barn Lane and Station Road, before arriving at the car park on the right. Turn right and walk north along the Downs Link. This 37-mile route was established in 1984, after the closure of the railway almost 20 years earlier. It links the North Downs with the South Downs, and the coast at Shorehamby-Sea. After ½ a mile,

Hill, Devil’s Dyke, Newtimber Hill and Wolstonbury Hill. There are up to four stiles to cross before the remains of a dried up moat appear on the left, its alignment highlighted by a ring of trees and bushes. The path then rejoins the Downs Link at Stretham Bridge. Nostalgic visions of yesteryear are easy to imagine… Smoke rising from the chimney as the 5:15pm from Horsham to Bramber passes through. Back on the Downs Link, walk

and three railway sleeper bridges, after which there are two sections of boardwalk. At the five-way fingerpost, turn left and endure the only incline of the day. Spring Hill is short and shallow in gradient, evolving into a track at the top, bordered by a yew hedge on the left. Follow the track to the road, the village sign clearly visible on the other side. Walk up the High Street, past period properties, back into the heart of the village. Find the war memorial and consider the odyssey complete. All that’s left to do is to treat oneself to some refreshments in the delightful, welcoming and historic environment of Henfield. l

north, passing a wooden bench and metal bench along the way. Both offer pleasing westward views. After 1¼ miles, just after a brick bridge, the link comes to a crossroads, at a post and rail barrier half blocking the way. Turn right and immediately right again by the telegraph pole, heading downhill, between conifers on the left and fencing on the right. At the t-junction, the brick arch of the bridge crossed moments earlier is visible on the right. Turn left,

wandering east, past the pond on the left. The path chicanes right left, then under willow trees until it reaches a stile by a stream. Follow the stream and its refreshing sound of gurgling water. Jo noticed a solitary newt sunbathing in a pool, enjoying the afternoon glow of spring. A low wall precedes a pair of stiles © Crown copyright 2019 Ordnance Survey. Media 035/19

Distance: 7 miles Walk Time: 2½ - 3 hours Stiles: 10 Map: Explorer OL11

Refreshments: There’s plenty of choice in Henfield Parking: Pay and display parking in Coopers Way

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SEPTEMBER

SEVEN HILLS FROM HASSOCKS

WALK

Our first day-walk for the summer is here and it’s for those that like a challenge. Resident rambler Robert Veitch took Lucy Sayers for an epic downland walk over seven summits, which she might never forget

eaving Hassocks Station, head down beneath the railway bridge. Cross the road, and walk up the steps between two brick columns, then south, alongside the railway. Cross the railway at the angled bridge, then keep left and continue as far as the road. Turn left and continue south, before turning right into New Way Lane. Just over ½ mile later, take the path by the fingerpost, where the road turns 90° right. The path soon turns left and enters the woods by the sign for Wolstonbury Hill. Bear right at the post, and left by the decapitated tree trunk, then uphill to the left of the handrail. After the stile, “It’s like the north face of the Eiger,” remarked Lucy, as the path skyrockets straight for the summit at 206m (676ft). The view is worth the effort. Continue south, ambling downhill towards the stile. Turn right and follow the chalk path downhill, through the double gates. Bear left, where the path splits, walking parallel to the fence and then go through the gate. Turn left, ignore the kissing gate on the right, and continue wandering along between the hedges. The path joins a track at Chantry Farm and becomes Pyecombe Street as the sound of traffic increases. Cross the A23 via the footbridge, then go straight on at the fingerpost, through two sets of gates to Newtimber Hill. At 10 SUSSEX LIVING

Hill at 192m (630ft). The summit is a mound to the right of the path. The views in every direction are utterly enchanting. Continue downhill towards the Saddlescombe valley. Once over the stile, follow the path to the metal gate and then the road. Across the road is a yellow tipped fingerpost, then a stile, leading to a narrow tarmac road. Before the tarmac dips down towards the gate, peel right towards the stile. 150m after the stile take the gate on the left, descending with care down the short steep route to the valley floor. Turn right by the muddy pool, then left at the fingerpost shortly after. The muddy pool evolves into a pretty pond. Skip across the dam, then over the stile, before turning right and following the field boundary to the gate, which leads to the road.

The views in every direction are utterly enchanting the 3-way fingerpost, bear slightly right, between the hedge lines and stock proof fence and continue to the gate, then through the Hawthorn trees to the fingerpost. Turn left, then right almost immediately, following the gorse to the gate. Beyond this, it’s straight on, a gentle trot between the Oaks to the summit at 204m (669 ft) where the views are a delight. The path arcs left, dipping into a col, preceding the easy climb of North

Turn left and uphill, then 150m later turn left into Dyke Lane. Enjoy the gentle calm and pleasant surface underfoot, because it’s about to get vertical. Bear right at the Devil’s Dyke sign then left at the fingerpost. Lucy saw the steps and joked, “It’s the stairway to heaven.” There are 189 steps to the gate, then 67 more before the downland opens up. “That’s more like the highway to hell,” gasped Lucy as we paused to get our breath back. Ramble across the scarp slope for 350m. Turn left and uphill at the fork where the nimble feet of a mountain goat will be a bonus on the short squirt to the stile. Bear right, the car park and telescope are just over the brow. Follow the road around to the left (for summit baggers the trig point at 217m (712ft) is off to the right), then south across the head of the dyke. Turn left at the 4-way fingerpost and join the South Downs Way. The flint path betwixt grass and scrub eases downhill for a mile, through an open gate, past the car park and covered reservoir, to a gate, then the road. Cross over and pass through the metal gate from earlier on. Keep right then wander along the asphalt, between the buildings to the gate. Follow the South Downs Way up West Hill to the stile. The summit 211m (692ft) is the line of gorse in the field to the left.

Distance: 15-16 miles Walk Time: 6½ - 7 hours, but allow a whole day Stiles: 9 Accumulated Ascent of all 7 Hills: Approximately 621m or 2,037 feet Map: Explorer OL11

Refreshments: Some along the way, some in Hassocks Top Tip: Take drinks and snacks for consumption while walking Trains: 3 trains northbound and 3 trains southbound per hour Parking: Pay parking at Hassocks Station

There are 189 steps to the gate, then 67 more before the downland opens up Wander downhill, its easy walking for a mile to the gate. The tarmac of Haresdean Lane turns 90° left, running parallel to the A23. Turn right, cross the A23, then turn right by the raised flower beds made from railway sleepers. The ascent of Church Hill 110m (361ft) is swift, ending at Pyecombe Church of the Transfiguration. Amble down School Lane, before following the path north, alongside the A273 for 150m. Across the main road, bear left at the top of the drive onto Clayton Hill. It’s just over ½ a mile to the crossroads at the golf course periphery. Go straight on. The path turns left, passes through a gate, and turns right at the t-junction. Immediately preceding the summit marked by Keymer Post at 234m (768ft) take the gate on the left. It’s the highest point of the day and time for a last look west at those earlier achievements. The path down this northerly spur in the Downs passes old lime pits about half way down. Turn left at the 3-way fingerpost, continuing downhill to Underhill Lane. Turn left and walk for ½ mile, before the lane turns sharp right, then

50m later, turn right into Spring Lane. Continue all the way to the woods, where a picket fence and linear pond border the left side. Across the road and cattle grid, follow the track to the stream. Over the stile and up the slope, veer right across the meadow, over the boardwalk to rejoin the path back to Hassocks Station. “It’s a walk of monuments,” summed up Lucy, “tough but very, very rewarding. I’ll sleep well tonight.” l SUSSEX LIVING 11

Robert Veitch laced up his boots for this month’s walk, marching through the ages, across the landscape of 1066 and this historic corner of the county

CROWHURST TO BATTLE

Walk L

eaving the wide expanse of Crowhurst Station via the rear of platform 1, follow Station Road downhill, beyond the multitudes of commuter cars for just over one-third of a mile, until the road comes to an end. Cross the road at the T-junction and enter St George’s Church cemetery opposite. Just beyond the glorious giant Oak on the right, is a tree for the ages on the left – The Crowhurst Yew. The knarled and twisted trunk has a beauty of it’s own and it’s quite bewildering to realise this tree was here at the time of William the Conqueror’s invasion. 12 SUSSEX LIVING

It’s thought it could be around 1,300 years old, possibly planted by the Saxons. King Harold owned the Manor of Crowhurst, which the Normans destroyed prior to the Battle of Hastings. Fortunately the Norman invaders sourced their firewood elsewhere. Beyond the yew, follow the path around the back of the church to the junction with Forewood Lane. Turn left and wander along the path for 200m, turning left again by the metal gate and

fingerpost indicating the 1066 walk. The path follows the right side of the field initially, before rolling downhill across the middle, into the gully beyond, as far as the seven-bar gate. Across the field of Rapeseed is a stile, which is the access point into the RSPB’s Fore Wood Nature Reserve. Follow the route downhill, passing a small pond on the right. The path rolls up and down through the woodland geography, veering right and uphill when timber stacks hove into sight. The musical overtures of miniature modern day descendents of Pteradactyls inhabit the airwaves like an avian orchestra. Walkers who know their birds

Modern day

may be able to spot the descendents of Chaffinch, Greater Spotted Pteradactyls inhabit Woodpecker, Marsh Tit, the airwaves like an entrance to the Nuthatch and Redwing It’s thought that the roundabout marks that all live here. Abbey Gate House the point where the course of British avian orchestra A small bench on the (remembering the history changed with the flight of that right appears a few steps Crowhurst Yew is older apocryphal arrow in October 1066. before the gate, and bridge over than everything you can At the mini roundabout turn right the Powdermill Stream. see) towards the quadrant arch. and walk downhill for about 400m, Across the field, turn right at the The path follows the ancient before turning left and bimbling downhill fingerpost, walking around the side of boundary wall of the Abbey, along the for the final furlong to Battle Station, to the metal seven-bar gate. From here road towards the mini roundabout. complete this march through time. l it’s uphill and around the left hand © Crown copyright 2017 Ordnance Survey. Media 007/17 bend as far as the T-junction. Turn right and follow the track downhill, under the power lines and back across the Powdermill Stream by the small waterfall that lies upstream. Follow the track as it weaves a way through the scenery, a ribbon cutting it’s way through the landscape. The black oast at Peppering Eye is topped with a white cowl and cockerel themed weather vane. Beyond this it’s no more than one-fifth of a mile to the junction with Telham Lane at the end of the track. Turn left onto Telham Lane and walk 100m along the road to the junction with Powdermill Lane. Cross the road with care, aiming for the fingerpost opposite. Up the bank and over the stile, the footpath hugs the edge of the field. At the top of the field, pass through a pair of small metal gates and then down the loose stone path, which becomes packed earth as it flattens out and then begins to clamber uphill. Beyond another couple of gates, grass replaces the earth and the path heads towards a solitary Horse Chestnut on the horizon. Beyond this is a fingerpost where the walk joins the 1066 footpath from Rye to Pevensey. The path is wide and leads to a Distance: 4 miles Refreshments: Take your pick in Battle gate, beyond which is a red brick wall, Walk Time: Between 2 and 3 hours Trains: Hourly to Crowhurst from either speckled with ivy. The wall emerges Stiles: 2 direction, twice hourly to Battle into civilisation and the historic town Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer 124 of Battle. Continue east, across the SUSSEX LIVING 13

Inspired by a recent Sussex Living article on the benefits of walking, our former colleague, Lucy Sayers, ventured to Chanctonbury Ring with our resident rambler, Robert Veitch for a breath of fresh, downland air

urn left out of the car park at the southern end of Chanctonbury Ring Road, walking south for 100m before turning right for the bridleway. A metal 7-bar gate that needs navigating some 50m later is evidence this is the correct path. The wooded glades may be moist underfoot, but generally it’s pleasant. “A good ramble along the contours, through the downland microclimate” according to Lucy. Just past an overgrown disused quarry on the left, is the rusty red corrugated structure of Owlscroft Barn on the right. Beyond the barn the path turns left and uphill, before turning right by two decaying tree trunks, after which it hugs the contour lines a little longer. Bear left when the path splits in two, turning left again at the T-junction that follows.

Chanctonbury Ring Walk From here it’s 400m to the summit. There’s no escaping the feeling this is the north face of the Eiger; your heart will be thumping, your lungs gasping, and your brow glowing. Ascending above the tree line the panorama north of the downs is to be commended, utterly glorious whatever the weather. We paused at the gate, the ‘rest and be thankful gate’ as Lucy called it, catching her breath, “that’s quite a climb, but well worth the effort.” From here it’s less 14 SUSSEX LIVING

indicates this path once served another role, and a solitary cats eye confirms it. The hollow at the bottom of the hill is known as No Man’s Land although we wondered whether it really belonged to Norman! A chalky flint track leads up the other side of the hollow, but it’s easier on the feet trekking the grassy central reservation. The gradient eases off, after which it’s easy walking. Off to the left Cissbury Ring feels close enough to reach out and touch.

The path skirts around Chanctonbury Ring, it’s history buried beneath arboreal shadows Several paths coalesce at a junction. Turn right, almost back on oneself, and begin the hike back to the car park. The walk gains altitude, but only gradually. Veer right at the split and keep going, past a couple of pine trees and the woods at Stump Barn (the barn is no longer there). Over the hilltop, the path drops down to the four-way fingerpost. Beyond that, the ground falls away as the path enters Chalkpit Wood, descending the steep scarp slope of the than 100m to the top gate and summit. The path skirts around Chanctonbury Ring, it’s history buried beneath arboreal shadows. In another era this was an Iron Age fort, subsequently inhabited by Romans. Trees were first planted in 1760 when Charles Goring (from Wiston) decided to beautify the hilltop. Most were blown down in the Great Storm of 1987, and they’ve since been replanted. The route follows the South Downs Way, sweeping to the right and downhill, two lines of gravel in the grass. Beyond the cattle grid, the path widens and gradually arcs left. At the four-way fingerpost, keep going, along the straight flat path ahead, with the greenery of Lion’s Bank on the left. Walk between crops towards the horizon, and then beyond. Almost 1km over the horizon a trig point will appear in the field on the right. Steyning should be visible to the east and Cissbury Ring to the south. A five-way fingerpost is 250m beyond the trig point. At the Walter Longmead memorial turn right onto the Monarch’s Way and follow the cinder path between the fences. The Monarch’s Way is the estimated 615 mile escape route of Charles I after his defeat at the Battle of Worcester in 1651. The path rises over a brow and then heads downhill. Tarmac underfoot

downs via Wiston Bostal. It might be a little slippery in places when damp. There’s a wooden teepee about half way down, and a metal gate marks the bottom. Beyond this it’s just a short distance back to the car park. Lucy beamed, “I feel I’ve been on a real adventure, that I’ve done something rewarding with my day and earned the right to put my feet up tonight. This makes me appreciate the landscape we have here in Sussex, and inspires me to go walking more often.” l

Distance: 5½ miles Walk Time: 2½-3 hours Stiles: 0 Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer OL10 Refreshments: Take your own

Parking: There is free parking at the southern end of Chanctonbury Ring Road. The car park is closed from dusk to dawn.

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Summer is here and this month Robert Veitch heads for the footpaths, byways, fields and woods around Bolney on a gently undulating walk. A perfect summer stroll for a glorious day

Bolney Walk

fter leaving the Rawson Hall car park, cross the road and take the footpath, which starts beside the Silver Birch, and heads west. Past the fence and brick wall is a small bridge and after that the rural idyll is all around. There are fields to the left and privet to the right. It’s a shaded walk all the way to the road. Take the gravel drive opposite, bordered by a metal fence to the right, and vines to the left. The drive eases left at the farmhouse, ending at a wobbly stile. Wander down through the grassy meadow to a high-rise kissing gate. Once through it, turn right and walk up the slope, past more vines to another high-rise kissing gate. Beyond this, bear left across the field, then through a smaller kissing gate, then right, along the track to the tarmac drive. Turn right and follow the super smooth surface north, through the apple orchard and farm buildings, until the tarmac ends. Ignore the fourway fingerpost, and take the single fingerpost leading into the trees. Once past the slanted trunk the path heads uphill gently, through woods primarily consisting of sycamore and 16 SUSSEX LIVING

beech. All being well, the charming chorus of birdsong should be the dominant sound. Two towering beeches precede a stream and kissing gate. Several magnificent oak trees populate the paddock that follows. Once through the kissing gate, turn

right and follow the road as it eases left, then right and gently uphill. 50m past the T-junction with Colwood Lane, bear left onto the gravel drive, then right at the fingerpost shortly after. Rhododendrons line the path to the right. Turn right at the next fingerpost, over the bridge and through the gate into Furzefield Wood. It leads into a pleasant meadow where a bench offers respite for weary feet under a Scots pine. Beyond the bench is a bridge, a gate and then the walk uphill towards the power lines. To the left across the valley is the impressive Wykehurst Place, a 19th century Gothic inspired mansion. Beyond the next kissing gate the path continues between the stock proof fences to the crossroads. Flick left, then right and continue for 300m to the road. Turn left and walk along the pavement for 75m, then right into Broxmead Lane. Once over the cacophony of the A23 walk on the right side of the road towards any oncoming traffic. A glance to the right should yield wonderful views of the South Downs on a clear day. Continue

past the red letterbox, the turning for Buncton Lane and the turning for Pickwell Lane. As the road works its way downhill, look out for the blue tipped fingerpost on the right, indicating a public bridleway. Walk up the drove, along the periphery of Long Wood, over the crest and downhill to the road. Turn left, and after 150m, turn right, through the gate and across the block-paved area to the stile. Remember to leave the gate as you find it. Beyond the lines of manicured hedges and views to Truleigh Hill is a stile. Continue southwest, past the decapitated tree, following the footpath signs across the meadow, then down through the woods to the road. Turn left and continue south for almost half a mile, then turn right by the mirror and skip through the kissing gate. Follow the drive between

Distance: 5½ miles Walk Time: 2� 2½ hours Stiles: 4

the ponds. Once past the ponds, the path angles left, like a shadow across the grass towards a distant silver birch beside a stile. In the next field, strike out towards the oak, following the path, adjacent to ripening crops. Once through the kissing gate, turn left and follow the pavement towards the sound of mechanical thunder. Cross the slip road with care and after emerging from under the A23, turn

Map: Explorer OL34 Refreshments: Available in Bolney Parking: Free parking at the Rawson Hall

right and follow the earth coloured tarmac to the roundabout. Cross safely to the far side and climb the steps by the lamppost. Follow the freshly laid path, as it leads to, and through, the graveyard of St Mary Magdalene Church, eventually joining The Street. Turn right and it’s one-third of a mile back to the car park and time for some well-earned refreshments. Happy rambles. l

A glance to the right should yield wonderful views of the South Downs

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SEAFORD TO

EASTBOURNE

WALK

With summer 2018 seemingly one of endless blue skies, it felt like a walk of grandiose proportions was required for August. We teamed Robert Veitch up with Seven Sisters fan, Beth Gumbrell, and sent them on a day long coastal epic

e departed Lewes Station beneath layers of thin cloud punctuated by polka dots of bright blue. Detraining at Bishoptone station, walk down the steps at the end of the platform, turning left on to Marine Parade. The long left hand curve straightens as it passes the former Buckle Inn and the imposing spectacle of Seaford Head fills the horizon. Wander along the promenade for 1½ miles, past Salts Recreation Ground and the Martello Tower, all the way to Splash Point. The Shoal is a meandering, community bench under-looking Seaford Head. Memorial plaques in the shape of sprats, sardines, herrings and mackerel adorn the furniture. Time to pause and absorb the surroundings. There’s no escaping the truth, the only way is up and the loose path swiftly evolves into downland grass. After passing the golf course the path levels off at the 86m (271ft), summit. On the left is Seaford Head Air Navigation Beacon. It’s a pleasant stroll, with wonderful views of the journey ahead and the route already travelled. Beyond the ‘Buckle Church Burrowers’ sign the path enters a shallow valley on the run down to Hope Gap. On the day we visited, the area was inundated with 18 SUSSEX LIVING

people. After enquiring we discovered they were making a film, called Hope Gap. Beyond Hope Gap, the path arcs left around the headland, culminating in our county’s postcard to the globe. The view across Coastguard Cottages to the Seven Sisters and the distant Belle Tout is one of the finest panoramas in the UK; epic, cinematic, timeless and very English. There’s a bench by the path, and it’s worth resting the legs for a moment, to absorb the grandeur. Beyond the cottages, the path gives way to the shingle beach. Some tank traps from WWII remain in position. There’s no sensible way across the river so turn left and head inland. The path runs alongside The Cut, a navigation

The view across Coastguard Cottages to the Seven Sisters and the distant Belle Tout is one of the finest panoramas channel dug in 1846 to reduce flooding across Cuckmere Haven. Around 25 minutes later a gate opens into a car park, leading to the A259. Cross the road, the bridge, then back across the road and through another gate. The path sits atop the levee and it’s just over a mile back to

the beach. Our walk was punctuated with glances to the heavens as a Spitfire practiced aerial manoeuvres. Turning left as the sea appears over the shingle berm, walk amongst sea kale towards the base of Haven Brow. A white staircase rises through the chalk, steep steps that rapidly gain altitude. “A little slippery in places, even in the dry,” remarked Beth as she made her way up. Breathe deep and keep going as far as the stile, then beyond, to the summit of Haven Brow.

exclaimed Beth, sensibly keeping well away from it. It’s downhill from Belle Tout, before the 1½ mile ascent of Beachy Head begins. The appearance of alpine bends indicates the summit of 162m (531ft) is close. Beyond the octagonal memorial is the trig point and south of that is The Compass Rose. From the Rose, walk towards the sea, downhill to the RAF Bomber Command Memorial. The path veers left and downhill

A great way to walk eleven hills in a day, and be rewarded with a palpable sense of achievement

According to Beth, “it’s as hard as it looks, but well worth it.” At 77m (253ft) it’s the highest of the sisters. The rollercoaster that follows is manna from heaven all the way. Haven Brow leads to Short Bottom, Short Brow, Limekiln Bottom, Rough Brow, Rough Bottom and Brass Point - names that fall off the page like characters in a Victorian novella. Climbs become easier as the body adjusts to the continual gradient change. “Don’t lose momentum on the ups, take smaller steps,” Beth advised. Brass Point leads to Gap Bottom, then Flagstaff Point, the Sarsen Stone and Flagstaff Bottom. Then comes the intruder, Flat Hill, the eighth sister is emerging as the landscape retreats at about 70cm a year. Flathill Bottom leads to Baily’s Hill, then Michel Dean and Went Hill Brow. Beyond Malcolm’s Gate, it’s downhill, past the houses to the car park at Birling Gap. In 1878 there were a dozen cottages here, several metres from the cliff edge. Today four remain. With 60% of the walk completed we stopped for tea and cake in the café. The ascent of Belle Tout begins by the red telephone box. It’s ¾ mile to the former lighthouse, built in 1832. Moved 17m (56ft) back from the precipice in 1999, it seems precariously close once again. “That edge is freaking me out,”

beside the memorial. Steep at first, “we could have abseiled down this,” claimed Beth. The gradient eases, veering left as the cliff edge approaches. The route strikes a line between summer flowers. After Whitebread Hole playing field, turn right on to the tarmac of Foyle Way, flanked by overgrown, black railings. Arriving at the suburban fringe of Eastbourne, turn right onto the red brick of Dukes Drive. After 350m bear right by the brown sign, following Holywell Drive down to the Promenade. From here it’s a mile to the Wish Tower, past thatched shelters and multitudes of benches. After that, the

bandstand is halfway to the pier and a whimsical, fairy tale journeys end. Hop up the steps to Grand Parade, turn left and walk 150m, past the Carpet Gardens. Cross the road at the pelican crossing and stroll along Terminus Road. Continue along Terminus Road in differing forms for half a mile, until the Victorian clock tower of Eastbourne station is close enough to tell the time. Boarding the 16:38 from platform 1, we arrived back in Lewes, elated, a whisker after 5pm. “I love walking the Seven Sisters, it’s so scenic, so special,” reflected Beth. “Completing it this way is a great way to climb eleven hills in a day, and be rewarded with a palpable sense of achievement.” l

Distance: 15 miles Walk Time: Allow the best part of a day Stiles: 1 Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer OL25 Refreshments: Available in Seaford,

Cuckmere, Birling Gap, Beachy Head and Eastbourne Trains: 2 per hour from Lewes to Seaford, 4 per hour from Eastbourne to Lewes Parking: Pay parking at Lewes Station

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SECTION SUBJECT

This month, Robert Veitch and his three friends; Cheryl, Ruth and Stephen ventured to the beautiful landscape around High Salvington. Their version of the fantastic four went in search of adventure and they recommend you do the same

HIGH SALVINGTON

Walk

rom the lower end of the car park on Bost Hill walk north between the two lime green posts, then between the lines of barbed wired, along the flint-speckled path of Roger’s Lane to the four-way fingerpost. Continue straight on, then around to the left into the valley towards the glass houses, where the path turns right onto the concrete drive. After 250m turn left and walk uphill for 100m, before turning right and ambling around the wooden five-bar 20 SUSSEX LIVING

gate. Continue through the arboreal tunnel, eventually arriving at the tarmac drive. Turn left and enjoy the avenue of trees on the approach to the church of St John the Baptist, which dates from the 11th century. The path continues to the right of the church, through a kissing gate into a field. Follow the left side boundary to a stile, then past Findon cricket ground, veering up the slope before turning sharp left and more steeply uphill to a redundant stile. Once past the stile, up and over the brow, the panorama opens up dramatically. Continue to the busy road and cross with care to the drive opposite. 50m along the drive turn left and downhill, along the Monarch’s Way into the Long Furlong valley. Once past the metal gate and the ‘beware of the bull’ sign, the track continues, rolling through the epic grandeur of the landscape, blowing away any lingering cobwebs. Over the crest and beyond a gate, the path stretches out downhill towards the distant beech trees and

gate, before easing uphill, eventually joining a tarmac drive. Turn left, then right almost immediately, and wander between the hedges of Myrtle Grove for 400m, eventually arriving at a three-way fingerpost by a wall box in the flint building marked ‘GR.’ Bear left, then right almost immediately and continue west for half a mile to the road at

Plenty has been written about Clapham Wood but we marched on regardless

Michelgrove Lane. Turn left and follow the road downhill and around a left hand bend. Turn right 100m beyond the bend and walk between the crops. “A lovely place for a picnic,” noted Ruth as she sat down, opened her knapsack and offered refreshments. Continue into the woods and walk uphill to the crossroads and four-way fingerpost. Turn left, and wander along the plateau to the gate at the entrance to Patching Hill. The giant beech tree above is exceptional. Beyond the gate, keep right, following the path as it cuts a thin line in the grass, passing the skeleton tree on the way to a gate on the right by the fingerpost. Once through the gate turn left and head downhill to The Street. Continue downhill, past the church of St John the Divine on the right, and spine-chilling scarecrows on the left, into Patching. In the village centre, turn left into Coldharbour Lane and walk 450m to the main road, which feels relatively noisy after the tranquility of the downs. Turn right, then walk up to the puffin crossing to cross the road in safety. Walk through Clapham along The Street, rejoicing as the sound of traffic fades into the background. Just beyond Woodland Close, turn sharp left, uphill past the pampas grass and into Clapham Wood. Plenty has been written about Clapham Wood; the supernatural, unseen forces, the discovery of bodies in the 1970s and the occult, but we marched on regardless. As Cheryl noted, “It’s a bit dense and overgrown in places, but actually the wood is really nice and peaceful, nothing to be scared of.” Continue in the same northeasterly direction, past a field on the right, then a field on the left, heading into the scrub when the fields end. At the threeway split, bear left and continue to a T-junction. Turn left into Richardson’s Wood

and gradually witness the light penetrating the canopy above as the path widens beneath; before emerging joyously into a field, high above Long Furlong, with the road below bisecting the valley. The path follows the contour lines, gaining altitude very gently, passing sloe berries near the silver gate at Church Hill; the highest point of the day at 136m (445 feet). Beyond the gate, turn right, then right again into Honeysuckle Lane. Potter south along the track, enjoying the views across Worthing, before passing the transmitter aerials at West Hill, finally emerging at the fringes of High Salvington surburbia a mile later. At the crossroads, turn left into Furze Hill and walk “What a past the ‘tin tabernacle’ of wonderful walk,” St Peter’s Church to the exclaimed Stephen as High Salvington windmill. Continue alongside the post he supped his welland rail fence to the dog deserved pint waste bin, before descending the 6½ zig-zags to The Gallops below. At the bottom of the zig-zags turn left and head back to the car park 400m away. The self styled fantastic four finished their afternoon with a socially distanced drink at a local pub. “What a wonderful walk,” exclaimed Stephen as he supped his well-deserved pint in the late afternoon sunshine. l © Crown copyright 2020 Ordnance Survey. Media 047/20

Distance: 9¼ miles Walk Time: 3½ - 4 hours Stiles: 2 Map: Explorer OL10 Elevation Gain: 250m (820 feet)

Calorie Burn: Approximately 850kcal Refreshments: Take a picnic or treat yourself afterwards Parking: Free parking in the Bost Hill car park

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This month our top wanderer, Robert Veitch, takes a train to Southease before walking the high road back to Lewes across the South Downs

o enjoy all the benefits of this route and magnificent landscape, walk it on a clear day when the scenery disappears into infinity. Alighting at Southease Station, take the track behind platform two and follow it around the bends towards the River Ouse and Southease swing bridge. Cross the swing bridge, before taking the gate on the right. Take the path atop the levee and follow the Ouse upstream. The smooth dome of Mount Caburn will be in the distance. After about half a mile there’s a gate, then half a mile later, there’s another. Turn left, away from the river, down the slope and along the track. The track leads through a gateway and under telephone cables towards Rodmell – reversing the final journey of the village’s most widely known resident, Virginia Woolf.

Southease to Lewes Walk Beyond a metal gate, the track evolves into tarmac, which leads through Rodmell. The flint walled buildings give the place a nostalgic serenity and elegance in dappled sunlight. Once at the main road, cross with care to Mill Lane opposite. Walk to the left of the barn with the electric blue paintwork. It’s half a mile to the end of the road, but civilisation finishes before then. Be sure to turn around on the ascent of Mill Hill to inhale the views. Even with a small gain in height there’s still a wow factor. At the top of Mill Hill, turn right onto the South Downs Way, walking between the feathered edge fencing panels. Beyond the metal gate, the majesty of the Downs opens up. Wander down into the col, then once through the pair of metal gates, continue up to a wooden gate. Beyond this is a concrete track, which seems a little other-worldy 22 SUSSEX LIVING

in this landscape. Follow the concrete over Front Hill and then Iford Hill. After a mile the concrete turns sharp left, but our route turns sharp right. After 50m and once through a gate, it turns left and leads to the summit of Swanborough Hill, which at 180m (591 feet) is the high point of the day. The surface underfoot is packed hardcore, which somehow feels more natural than the concrete. The path veers left around a bend and a first view of Kingston appears. Continue to the wooden gate, then 75m beyond it on Kingston Hill, take the path to the right by the fingerpost. It passes a burial mound before the descent begins. The track of chalk and flint drops away steeply, losing 100m of altitude over the next 800m of distance as it snakes downhill to a metal gate. By the time the tarmac of Kingston

leads downhill past Jubilee Gardens to a t-junction. Turn left, and then right at the mini-roundabout onto Southover High Street. It’s a delightful road, with a seemingly endless variety of buildings along the way. After almost half a mile, turn left at the mini-roundabout and Lewes Station will be a minute or two away. It might be time to head home, or it might be time to head into town for a well-deserved treat. Your feet will tell you the answer! l Ridge appears, the outlying homes of suburbia border the route. The road dips down to the junction with Ashcombe Hollow. Cross with care onto the historic Juggs Road. This was once a route to Brighton, and Juggs was a term for Brighton fisherman, whose wives would transport their husbands’ catch across the Downs in baskets or earthenware jugs, loaded onto donkeys. Past the replica of Ashcombe Mill, built around 90 years after the original was destroyed by high winds in 1916, lies the last of the open downland; a final chance to enjoy the expansive panorama on this walk.

Even with a small gain in height there’s still a wow factor Beyond a redundant gate, the path follows the field boundary, beneath the trees, gradually widening, eventually giving way to tarmac once again. It’s gently downhill, dropping away a little more steeply as the drone of traffic increases in volume. After natural sounds of the walk, traffic noise feels a bit of a shock. A sharp left precedes the bridge across the A27 and railway. It seems more like crossing a gorge, but once over it, the road turns sharp right and

Distance: 10½ miles Walk Time: 3¼ � 4 hours Stiles: 0 Map: Explorer OL11

Refreshments: Available in Lewes Trains: Hourly from Lewes and Seaford Parking: Pay parking at Lewes Station

SUSSEX LIVING 23

SECTION SUBJECT

Introducing

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