Toasted Fig Hikes #11 | Balcombe | Victorian Viaduct & Reservoir | Sun 2 Aug

Hike & Pub Stop | Balcombe & Ardingly Reservoir Circular | Sun 2 Aug

A Victorian viaduct, wooded valleys and reservoir views, Sussex at its finest 🌿

A circular hike from Balcombe through farmland to the spectacular Ouse Valley Viaduct before winding along the River Ouse and Ardingly Reservoir. Only 45 minutes from central London but properly rural from the first step.

About this hike
We start at Balcombe station and head along quiet lanes and across farmland to the Ouse Valley Viaduct, a 37-arch Victorian masterpiece that's one of the most photographed spots in Sussex. From there we follow the River Ouse and skirt the shores of Ardingly Reservoir before looping back through Balcombe village. We'll pass a cafe with ice creams half way around and finish with a pub stop for a well-deserved drink and bite to eat if you fancy it!

The route
A mixture of country lanes, farmland and waterside paths with some inclines and around 1,200 feet of elevation total. Expect beautiful views, an impressive slice of railway history, and possibly some farm animals along the way.

The details
📍 Meet outside Pret inside London Bridge from 08:45–08:55 for the 09:05 train, or join us at Balcombe station at 09:46
🚶 ~13km / ~8 miles
⏱ ~3–4 hours moving time
💷 £10 per person

What's included
✔️ A guided hike led by a qualified outdoor first aider
✔️ A healthy snack on the trail
✔️ A friendly, welcoming group (capped at 20)

What's not included
✖️ Train ticket (an off-peak day return is c.£10 with a railcard if bought in advance)
✖️ Food and drink at the pub, if you fancy staying on

How to pay
Once you RSVP, I'll message you with bank details. To confirm your spot, please pay £10 by bank transfer within 48 hours (or before the hike starts, if that's sooner). Unpaid spots will be released after a friendly reminder. Please note we're unable to accept cash on the day. Bank transfer only.

Refund policy
100% refunds are available up to 24 hours before the hike, and will be paid within 48 hours
No refunds within 24 hours of the start time

What to bring
Comfortable sturdy footwear
Plenty of water
Suncream and a hat
A snack or packed lunch if you think you'll get peckish

The vibe
Relaxed pace, good company and time in nature. Toasted Fig hikes are welcoming and friendly with a shared love of the outdoors, good food and looking after yourself. No fitness pressure. Whether you're coming solo or with a friend, you'll be made to feel welcome from the moment you arrive.

Safety
I'm a qualified outdoor first aider, so you're in safe hands on the trail 🙌

Any questions?
Message me here on Meetup, I'd love to hear from you. For help finding the group on the day, feel free to message me on 07759894981.

See you on the trail! 🌿