Brighton and The South Downs
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A walk that is never more than 5 miles from the Brighton and Hove city boundary and yet much is on open countryside, with views of the sea, the Downs and the Weald.
We start our walk in Hassocks, which is on the London mainline, just 5 miles north of Brighton. We shall initially walk south alongside the railway to Clayton tunnel, where we shall climb up on to the South Downs at the Jack and Jill Windmills.
The Jack and Jill windmills stand atop the Downs, with views of the Sussex Weald. Jill windmill has been restored in recent years by the Jack and Jill Windmills Society and now mills flour again, on an occasional basis. It may be possible to go inside Jill windmill, for a small fee, if it is open on the day. The neighbouring Jack windmill is privately owned and not open to the public.
The next part of the walk is along part of the South Downs Way, towards Ditchling Beacon, where we will turn south towards the Chattri. The Chattri is a memorial built to honour the Indian dead of the First World War. Many Brighton residents are not aware of its existence. It stands on the Downs above Brighton at the place where Hindu and Sikh soldiers who died in Brighton war hospitals during 1914 and 1915 were cremated. Many of those who died had been treated in a makeshift hospital at the Royal Pavilion. There are great views from The Chattri of the Downs, Brighton and the English Channel beyond. Depending on timing, I hope to stop here for lunch.
We will briefly retrace our steps before descending east towards the village of Stanmer and then through Stanmer Park, towards Falmer and then past the Brighton & Hove Albion Amex football stadium. Beyond the stadium we climb again towards Woodingdean and then descend again through East Brighton Park towards Brighton Marina, before finsihing our walk close to Brighton Palace Pier.
What to bring
For your comfort and safety please be prepared for the anticipated weather and the terrain of the walk - keep in mind the following:
Boots: Hiking boots that are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support are important as soon as you encounter any mud. Cross trainers may suffice in good weather.
Socks: Proper walking socks keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters.
Walking Trousers: (ideally water resistant) will be more comfortable than Jeans but shorts should be fine at this time of year.
Waterproof Over-Trousers: essential in any significant rainfall. Breathable ones are best.
Layered clothing: allows you to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature. E.g. a base layer or a cotton T-Shirt; a mid layer like a micro fleece, or a rugby type thick shirt, and in cooler weather an outer layer consisting of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece.
Waterproof Jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather. You get what you pay for with these. Breathable fabrics are advisable.
Hat: to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Small Rucksack: One that is comfortable to wear is essential so that you can use your arms freely. Place valuables in water proof bags inside.
Sunglasses: comfortable sunglasses enhance your pleasure.
Water: even in winter one can loose a litre or more of fluid by perspiration. If you fail to make this up you'll get dehydrated which can lead to headaches and other problems. A hydration bladder is easier to use than bottled water, but higher maintenance.
Food: a packed lunch will be required. In addition carry energy bars or similar to counter 'sugar lows'.
Medicines: If you have allergies, are diabetic, or have minor ailments don't forget these!
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch and plenty of water. We may be able to stop in Stanmer for afternoon refreshments. There are plenty of shops in Hassocks, but please allow yourself sufficient time if you wish to purchase your lunch before the walk, as the shops are a ten minute walk from the station..