TOUGH HIKE 24km Lewes Circular - The Sea views & Hills of the South Downs

Come and join us along this enchanting trail in the South Downs, a spectacular walk that combines breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and the charm of Sussex. This trail takes us through the stunning South Downs National Park, where we will traverse three majestic ridges as high as 191 metres and each offering panoramic views stretching all the way to the sea. As we hike along the unique white chalk paths, we'll discover the dramatic beauty shaped by glaciers during the last Ice Age, along with lush river valleys that add to the scenic allure of this remarkable region.

Along the way we will soak in the captivating landscapes of Britain’s newest National Park, visit the ancient Iron Age hill fort at Mount Caburn, and walk along the South Downs Way – a renowned National Trail steeped in history. Passing through lush meadows and open fields, we will discover picturesque villages like Glynde - home to the famous Glyndebourne Opera House and Southease, home to an Anglo-Saxon church with a unique round tower. This circular route offers a perfect blend of history, discovery, and serenity. After the hike we'll return to the attractive and ancient market town of Lewes.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through South Downs National Park, Britain’s newest and most visited national park
• Spectacular elevated hike on the high ridges of the South Downs
• Distant coastal views including of the Seven Sisters cliffs
• Visit Mount Caburn - a 2500 year old Iron Age Hill Fort site
• Cross the Greenwich Meridian line separating the Eastern and Western Hemispheres
• Hike through dramatic Glacial “dry valleys” shaped by the last Ice Age
• Hike part of the famous South Downs Way National Park
• Free time to explore the historic market town of Lewes, set on the Greenwich Meridian
• Walk by Southease Church, with its unique round tower and Anglo-Saxon origins

HIKE DESCRIPTION

The hike begins in the heart of Lewes, a charming market town brimming with history and culture. Situated on the Greenwich Meridian, Lewes boasts medieval streets, an 11th-century castle, and a rich tapestry of stories from its past. Setting off, we cross the serene River Ouse and ascend into the South Downs National Park, an expansive area of chalk grasslands and rolling hills.

Our trail leads to Mount Caburn, a 146-meter-high hill crowned by an Iron Age hill fort dating back to 400 BC. Here we'll uncover remnants of ancient ditches and burial pits reminding us of those who walked these hills long before us. We take the time to admire the sweeping views across the downs and toward the distant coastline.

Continuing along the South Downs Way, the first bridleway National Trail, we walk paths that have connected communities for thousands of years. This chalk ridge offers unparalleled vistas, with glimpses of the Seven Sisters cliffs and the sea.

As we descend into the Ouse valley, we pass through the village of Rodmell, where Virginia Woolf lived at Monk’s House. Here we take time to reflect on her literary legacy as we cross the tranquil footbridge of the River Ouse where her lifetime story ended abruptly.

Passing through the tiny village of Southease, we pause to admire its rare round-towered church, a remarkable remnant of Anglo-Saxon heritage. From here, the journey loops back to Lewes, renowned for its vibrant culture and dramatic bonfire celebrations.

MEETING POINT

Victoria station 8:10am leave at 8:30am for the 8:46am train. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - MAP
Planned arrival time back into London is 6:30pm (you are committed until then)

GUIDE - CORINA 07591 945281 (only for use during the hike) ABOUT US

FOOD - Bring a packed lunch, we usually visit a pub after the hike for drinks

DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY

Distance: 15 miles (24km)
Grading: Challenging
Ascent: 640m
Hiking time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours

COST & PAYMENT

£31 including the guided hike and return train travel, click “Attend” to join.

Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable but we have a process to release your space for RESALE, if your space sells you will be refunded.

WHAT TO BRING

• Hiking clothes & footwear - ideally hiking boots. Hat & gloves if cold, waterproof jacket & trousers KIT LINK
• Water (2 litres)
• Lunch
• We arrange train tickets and logistics, so just turn up and have a great day 😁

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider

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