FREE HIKE - 🌊 Newhaven to the South Downs – Cliffs, Forts & Sweeping Horizons

### 📅 Meeting Point: Outside Newhaven Town Train Station (Platform 1 exit, by the ticket office)

⏰ Meet at 09:45 AM for a sharp 10:00 AM start and finish before lunch at 2pm.
🚶 Distance: Approx. 15 km (9+ miles)
🔁 Type: Circular coastal & downs hike
⚡ Difficulty: Moderate – hills, cliffs, and character

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### 🌊 Newhaven to the Downs – Cliffs, Forts & Sweeping Horizons

This is one of those hikes that punches above its weight. Just about 15 km, but it delivers big — dramatic chalk cliffs, crumbling Victorian fortifications, rolling South Downs, and views that stretch all the way across the English Channel.

We start from Newhaven Town, climb past the brooding silhouette of Newhaven Fort (perched high above the harbour like something out of a war film), then head inland and upward into the South Downs National Park. Expect big skies, windswept ridgelines, and the kind of views that make you stop mid-stride.

The route weaves through open downland, quiet villages, sheep-dotted hills, and coastal edges where the land just… ends. There's history here too — old smugglers' paths, defensive earthworks, and chalk-cut trails worn smooth by centuries of feet.

This isn't a flat stroll. There are steep climbs, uneven ground, and exposed sections where the wind likes to remind you who's boss. But that's what makes it rewarding. You'll feel it in your legs — and your soul.

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### 🌄 What You'll Experience

✅ Newhaven Fort – Victorian coastal defence with panoramic harbour views
✅ Dramatic chalk cliff edges overlooking the English Channel
✅ Rolling South Downs ridgelines and open countryside
✅ Quiet villages and hidden valleys
✅ Panoramic coastal and countryside vistas throughout
✅ A satisfying, leg-testing circular route

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### ⚠️ Group Guidelines (Please Read)

🔹 Stay with or behind the hike leader at all times
🔹 You must be able to see the person in front of you at all times
🔹 This is a moderate hike with steep climbs and uneven terrain
🔹 Wear proper hiking shoes/boots — trainers won't cut it
🔹 Bring snacks, 1L+ water, layers, and waterproofs
🔹 This is a voluntary activity — you are responsible for your own safety
🔹 The organiser accepts no risk or liability
🔹 Repeated no-shows may result in removal from the group
📖 Please read the About Us section before signing up:
👉 https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities

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### ☕🍻 After the Hike

We'll finish back at Newhaven Town Station, then head to a nearby pub for food, drinks, and the post-hike debrief. Perfect way to close out the day.

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### 📱 Contact

If you're running late or lost, message me on WhatsApp: 07830 374 629
(Please don't call during the hike — I'll be leading and navigating.)

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This one's a cracker. Don't miss it.