Summer Solstice on the South Downs

The sun reaches its greatest angular distance from the celestial equator at 3.42am BST on 21 June this year - otherwise known as the summer solstice. Given sunrise that day in London is only at 4.42am, good luck in seeing it then. But we can at least celebrate the ensuing longest day of the year in style - with some bracing walking, splendid views, and cosy country pubs.

This walk will extend some 16miles (25km) from Petersfield up onto the ridge of the South Downs and then through its woods, hills, valleys, secluded villages (and attendant pubs) of the South Downs National Park round back to the railway line at Rowlands Castle - or possibly Petersfield, or possibly entirely the other way round from Rowlands Castle to Petersfield, depending on mood and pub disposition.

Either way, it's a fantastic walk through the glorious scenery - see you there!