BWs walk the South Downs Way, Part 7, 13.5mi, mod./challeng. (BOOKING REQUIRED)

This is Part 7 of a series of walks the BWs are doing to complete the South Downs Way in weekend sections. This 13.5-mile linear walk picks up the SDW from Housedean Farm, where we finished on Day 6. There are some moderate climbs into the surrounding hills before arriving in the pretty village of Alfriston.

We will meet at Lewes train station and then walk 5 minutes to Lewes High Street to take the local 29A local bus (15m) to the walk start location directly on the South Downs Way.

This walk will be led by Robyn.

Advance booking is required for this walk, which is limited to 26 people. This is now handled by marking yourself as attending here on Meetup. Please do not turn up without booking your space by doing so, only sign up if you intend to come, and cancel in good time if you can no longer attend so that someone else can take your place.

Please see our website for more information about the group.

Pace: medium. Ascent: 286m.

Walk details

We’ll commence our journey at Lewes Station, embarking on a leisurely stroll along the riverside path before rejoining the South Downs Way trail. Ascending the winding steep path at Itford Farm towards Itford Hill, we anticipate being greeted by breathtaking vistas of Lewes. Our route will then lead us onward to Firle Beacon before descending into the charming village of Alfriston. Depending on our pace, there may be an opportunity to explore the village, renowned for St Andrew’s Church, dubbed the “Cathedral of the South Downs”, and the Clergy House – which remains open until 16:30. The Clergy House holds special historical significance as the National Trust’s inaugural property, acquired in 1896, boasting a rare 14th-century Wealden “Hall House”. For those of us seeking refreshment, The George Inn, established in 1397, is an option.

On the following day (Sunday), we’ll embark on the final stretch of the South Downs Way. You may wish to organsie your own accomodation locally, or alternatively you may opt to return to Berkshire at the end of the day.

Travel details

By public transport

Outbound journey: Take the train from Reading station to Lewes via Gatwick airport (more info when train times are published). The journey usually takes 2h30 in total. Expect the train to leave Reading by 7am.

Return journey: You may like to stay locally overnight to continue the final leg of the South Downs Way on Sunday 20th October. If you are returning to Berkshire this evening, you will need to organise own transport back to Lewes by taxi, or the cheaper option is a taxi to Seaford railway station then a quick train to Lewes. It appears there is the 125 bus that runs between Alfriston and Lewes a few times a day but it is unclear if you can alight at Alfriston.

By car

You may park at Lewes Station car park (charges may apply). You will need to organise own transport back to Lewes by taxi at the end of the walk, or the cheaper option is a taxi to Seaford railway station then a quick train to Lewes.

Notes

• Please bring a packed lunch and a drink.
• It might be muddy – please wear suitable footwear.
• Please contact the leader directly if you are delayed on the day or can't find the group (find contact details on our website). We are unlikely to respond to Meetup comments or messages sent on the day of the walk in enough time to be helpful.