FREE HIKE 24km | Ouse Valley Viaduct & Ardingly Reservoir

📈 Grade: 🥾🥾🥾 Level 3/5

SUMMARY:
🥾 24km (15miles) | Circular | Ascent: 330m | ~7 hours
🚆 Train from London Blackfriars train station
⛳️ Meeting Point: 2 Options
1- London Blackfriars train station - Main Ticket Office | 08:45 (Train is at 09:09)
2- Haywards Heath outside train station | 10:00
📍 Hike start: Haywards Heath outside train station | 10:10
🏁 Hike finish: Haywards Heath | approx. 17:00-18:00
⚠️ Some terrain can be muddy or uneven: good walking shoes recommended

📖ABOUT:

• Get ready for a stunning circular hike! We’ll start in the charming village of Lindfield, wander through rolling fields and ancient woodlands, pass the shimmering waters of Ardingly Reservoir, and cross the iconic Ouse Valley Viaduct. One of the most photogenic spots in Sussex.
• Expect a mix of peaceful country lanes, forest paths, and open trails. Sturdy shoes are a must, especially if it’s been raining.
• This one’s packed with views, nature, and plenty of fresh air. Don’t miss it!

🌟HIGHLIGHTS:

• Charming village start in Lindfield
• Peaceful farmland and ancient woodlands
• Scenic Ardingly Reservoir views
• The breathtaking Ouse Valley Viaduct – perfect photo stop!
• Wildlife spotting along the River Ouse
• A mix of open fields, shady woods, and country lanes

💡TIPS:

• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof shoes are recommended. Some paths can be muddy after rain.
• Weather Prep: Bring layers and a waterproof jacket in case of changing weather.
• Food & Water: Pack snacks and plenty of water; there may be few shops along the way.
• Safety: Take care on narrow lanes where vehicles might pass.

💷COST:
Free

🚆TRAINS | Direct

• Outbound: 09:09 from London Blackfriars train station
• Arrive Haywards Heath 09:59
• Inbound from Haywards Heath train station Approx. 18:00
• Visit National Rail for details

⛳️MEETING POINT & TIME:

• Meet: 2 Options
  1- London Blackfriars train station - Main Ticket Office | 08:45
  2- Haywards Heath outside train station | 10:00
• Hike start: Outside Haywards Heath train station | 10:10
• Hike finish: Haywards Heath | Approx. 17:00–18:00

🚏DISTANCE AND DIFFICULTY:

• Total distance: approx 24km (15 miles)
• Ascent: 330 m
• Max elevation: 111 m
• Grading: 🥾🥾🥾 Level 3/5
• Time: Approx. 7 hours (with breaks)
• Pace: 5 km/h (~3.1 mph)

🎒WHAT TO BRING:

• Water (2 litres recommended)
• Snacks and packed lunch
• Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing
• Sturdy shoes or hiking boots

✅Who Can Join
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Our hikes are open to adults aged 21 and over.
• 👶 For safety reasons, we’re not able to include children.
• 🐾 We love animals, but pets (including dogs) can’t join our hikes.
• ☑️ Everyone is welcome to RSVP, but to keep things fair for all members:
- If someone often cancels last minute or misses hikes without notice, they may be placed on a waitlist or removed from the group for future events.
- We do a quick check-in on the day of the hike, which helps us keep track and make sure spaces are available for those who really want to join.

⚠️SAFETY:
As adults, you are fully responsible for your own safety and decisions throughout the walk.

❗️NOTES:

• This is a group hike led by volunteers. Everyone is welcome to join.
• A few wrong turns? That’s part of the fun!
• While you're free to “hike your own hike,” we encourage group participation, get to know one another, make new friends, and enjoy the journey together.
• Food options are limited en route, bring lunch.

🚨DISCLAIMER:
Event Participation Disclaimer
By signing up for an event we host, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

• The organisers are not qualified hiking leaders, certified first aiders, or formally trained in navigation, survival, or any related disciplines.
• These hikes are informal, self-guided gatherings of like-minded individuals.
• The hosts expressly disclaim all responsibility and liability for any injuries, accidents, or safety incidents that may occur during participation.
• Participation is entirely voluntary, and all attendees are solely responsible for their own safety and well-being.
• These events are non-commercial and are organised purely as a recreational hobby, with no business or financial interests involved.
• Hiking and outdoor activities inherently carry risks of personal injury. By choosing to participate, you accept these risks and take full responsibility for your own actions and decisions.

🚨GENERAL GROUP POLICY:

• Voluntary Participation: Attendance is at your own risk. The group and hosts bear no liability.
• No Professional Duty of Care: Hosts are volunteers, not trained guides or medical professionals.
• Insurance Is Your Responsibility: If desired, you must arrange your own personal insurance.
• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles at all times.
• Emergency Preparedness: You are responsible for organising your own emergency plan.
• Weather and Safety: Events may be cancelled or changed if conditions are deemed unsafe.
• Self-Assessment Required: You must honestly assess your fitness and ability to keep pace with the group.
• No Guaranteed Rescue: While help may be offered, full rescue capabilities should not be expected.
• No Minors Without Guardians: Participants must be over 21.
• Right to Refuse Participation: Hosts may turn away any individual who appears unprepared or poses a safety risk to others.
• First Aid Preparedness Encouraged: It is highly recommended that each participant carries a small first aid kit for minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, bites, and blisters.

🚨FINAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT:
By attending this event, you confirm that you are participating voluntarily and at your own risk. Neither the host nor the group accepts responsibility for any injury, loss, or damage incurred.