FREE HIKE - The Viaduct Voyagers: Balcombe Adventure
Details
## 🚉 Meeting Point
Outside Balcombe Station – meeting time - 10:15 am
Parking available at Balcombe Station car park.
Distance: 13-15 miles | Level: Moderate/Intermediate
## A Journey Through Victorian Grandeur
Imagine standing beneath 11 million bricks, perfectly arranged into 37 semi-circular arches that seem to stretch into infinity. This is the Ouse Valley Viaduct, built between 1839 and 1841 to carry the London-Brighton Railway over the River Ouse. Rising 96 feet above the valley floor and stretching nearly 1,500 feet across the landscape, this Grade II* listed masterpiece has been called "probably the most elegant viaduct in Britain."
Designed by engineer John Urpeth Rastrick, every brick was transported by barge up the river to create what would become an enduring symbol of Victorian ambition and craftsmanship. Today, it still carries around 110 trains daily, just as it has for over 180 years. And you'll get to experience it from the best vantage point possible—on foot, with time to truly appreciate its magnificence.
## 📍 Route Highlights
This scenic hike offers some of the finest views in the area, featuring:
- Ouse Valley Viaduct – An impressive architectural landmark with fantastic viewpoints
- Ardingly Reservoir – A picturesque spot worth seeing in its own right
- Wakehurst Garden – Beautiful grounds along our route
- Heart-pumping ascents – Brief but rewarding hills that boost your endorphins and deliver excellent panoramic views at the summit
Expect sections of muddy terrain, especially after rain, so appropriate hiking footwear is essential.
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## 🎒 What to Bring
- Good hiking shoes (muddy terrain expected)
- At least 1 litre of water
- Packed lunch for our lunch stop
- Weather-appropriate clothing (it can be cold and wet)
- Torch (compulsory) – We are likely to finish in the dark!
- Positive and friendly energy with readiness for an adventure!
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## 🥾 Key Information
- The hike is completely free
- The hike organiser will guide the route
- This is a moderate/intermediate-level hike
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## ⚠️ Important Notes
Group Safety & Etiquette:
- Stay with or behind the hike leader to maintain the group's pace and cohesion
- Respect fellow walkers, animals, and the environment
- This is a voluntary activity. Participants are responsible for their own safety, not the organiser
Group Guidelines:
- Read our "About Us" section in full before joining: 👉 https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities
- Those who are continuous no-shows (2 or more times) and have never attended before may be removed from the group
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## 🍻 After-Hike Gathering
We'll wrap up with a friendly pub visit in the town.
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## 📱 Contact
If you run into any issues or need to get in touch on the day:
WhatsApp: 07830 374 629