JAN25: Stimulating South Downs Stepcount Strengthener
13 people attending
12 places left
GET SOCIAL THIS JANUARY! This event is one of loads of events taking place over the same weekend! Check out all the events over the weekend of 17-19 January 2025: OutdoorLads.events/JAN25. Great for new and regular members!
Join Matt and the Outdoorlads for a proper old South Downs hike to kickstart a healthy and active 2025.
The great thing about this walk is that is starts from a station on the main London to Bognor line, but also nestled in the beautiful Arun Valley right next to the majestic chalkland South Downs. There is also free parking for those who prefer to drive.
An idea of the route can be viewed here. We'll start the walk by heading from our start point of Houghton Bridge south along a pretty rural lane, and before long we'll graze the edge of the hidden-away hamlet of North Stoke. Rather than risking the rather soggy paths along the valley's bottom, we'll climb steadily onto the Downs via easy terrain tracks and undulate through chalky and open downland tracks, enjoying big skies and rolling vistas as well as good conversation. We'll eventually pass through tucked-away Lee Farm, pass the prominent Harrow Hill (an ancient burial site) before a moderate climb up up to Chantry Hill and the South Downs Way.
From this point, we'll head along the elevated South Downs Way for a beautifully scenic 3 miles with views of the Sussex Weald and the impressive Parham House and estate to our right, and glimpses of the English Channel to our left. As we begin to descend, the view opens out onto Amberley village, the stunning River Arun and surrounding wetlands, and we are treated to a distant glimpse of Arundel Castle over to the south.
After a final sharp downhill, we arrive back at Houghton Bridge and will have the opportunity to grab a pint or coffee at the Bridge Inn - conveniently just 2 minutes from Amberley Station.
Note that if weather conditions are poor, we may do a similar but shorter route which does not include the section of the walk around Chantry Hill.
Photo credits: Main image and first two event photos provided by event leader. Third event photo taken by and included with permission of another Outdoorlads member.
What to bring
Walking boots will be needed as we are walking on rough footpaths at times, and there will be mud and puddles. Wear clothing appropriate to the weather including waterproof kit in case of rain. As it is January, please check the weather forecast ahead, and if appropriate wear / bring plenty of warm layers, hat, gloves, light scarf etc.
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch and snacks with you as we won't pass any shops while on it, and there is no shop at Amberley Station. Also bring sufficient water for the whole walk.