Tranquil Balcombe Adventure - Reservoir Trails and Viaduct Views

Join us for a stunning circular walk from Balcombe, taking in the impressive Ardingly College, the tranquil Ardingly Reservoir, and the stunning Ouse Valley Viaduct. The route blends history, scenery and fresh air, finishing with a well-earned drink in a welcoming village pub.

SUMMARY (all info is approximate!)

Distance: 20km/12 miles linear route
Ascent: 450 metres
Duration: 6 hours walking
Grade: Intermediate, along good paths.

COST AND LOGISTICS

Cost: £10
Meet: 10.20am Balcombe Station
Hike start: 10.30am Balcombe Station
Hike finish: 5.30pm Balcombe Station / The Half Moon Inn

Recommended morning train from London
09:35 Dep: London Bridge
10:16 Arr: Balcombe

Recommended train ticket
Super Off-Peak Day Return to Balcombe

REVIEWS
Trip Advisor | Facebook | MeetUp

HIKE DESCRIPTION

Step off the train at Balcombe station and straight into one of Sussex’s finest walks. This circular route packs in everything you’d want from a day in the countryside: grand architecture, peaceful waters, and one of the most iconic railway structures in Britain.

From the village, the path leads into the countryside and makes its way towards the striking Ardingly College, whose Gothic towers rise above the treetops. A little further on, we’ll reach the shores of Ardingly Reservoir, a serene spot alive with birdlife and perfect for a breather by the water.

The trail then guides us to highlight of the day: the magnificent Ouse Valley Viaduct. Its 37 arches stretch across the valley in a stunning example of Victorian engineering.

The return leg meanders back through open fields and quiet lanes, bringing us full circle to Balcombe.

To top it all off, if you want, you can settle into a welcoming village pub for a pint and/or a hearty meal before heading home.

PRICE INCLUDES

• Guided hike planned and led by an experienced AAA leader, trained in Outdoor First Aid.

PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE

• Travel costs
• Lunch, drinks or any refreshments
• PayPal fees

RECOMMENDED KIT LIST (complete list)

• Suitable hiking shoes or boots
• Packed lunch and snacks
• Water - 2 litres recommended
• Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!)
• Warm windproof layer e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece
• Wicking base layer e.g. Polyester/Tencel/Merino

CANCELLING/REFUNDS
If you can no longer make the hike, please update your RSVP to say 'No', to allow others to buy your place. If the hike is full, we will refund you, less than the PayPal/Meetup fees. To obtain this, please email info@aaalondongroup.com after the event, with the email address you use on your PayPal account and transaction reference. If the hike is not full, unfortunately we will not be able to provide any refund.

QUESTIONS
If you have any other questions, please check visit our FAQ page. If you are still unsure, contact the event Host shown on this page.

We have operated over 1,000 events without significant incidents in the last ten years, achieved through meticulous planning. All participants (members and their guests) in any AAA Hiking event or activity are personally responsible for their fitness, safety and welfare, and must be equipped accordingly. If you have signed up for the event, you acknowledge and accept the AAA London Group Terms and Conditions. © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted
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