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WALKS ON THE WAY BY BUS AND TRAIN

NATIONAL PARK WALKS ON THE BY BUS AND TRAIN

WALKS ON THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY

As Britain’s newest National Park the South Downs offers you rolling hills, USEFUL INFORMATION, FIRST CATCH picturesque villages, , crystal clear rivers and the iconic Seven MAPS AND GUIDES YOUR BUS OR TRAIN... Sisters cliffs. Running the entire length of this beautiful National Park is the undulating South Downs Way. For more information about the South The summary timetable at the end of Downs Way head to the National this guide gives an overview of public This 100 mile (160km) route follows old fantastic , enjoy a well-earned drink website where you’ll find full listings transport links – please check the tracks and drove ways along the ridge and let someone else drive you home! of maps, guides, accommodation operator’s website for full details. of the Downs; from the cathedral This booklet also includes a handy table and lots of other useful details – city of in the west to the Buses: traveline.info/se summarising public transport (though nationaltrail.co.uk/ seaside town of in the east. 0871 200 22 33 south-downs-way please check online for the most up to Trains: nationalrail.co.uk The distinctive chalk and route is date transport details), tips on using For information about exploring the 03457 48 49 50 easy to follow and usually firm under buses and ideas for weekend trips. All South Downs National Park visit & : buses.co.uk foot. You’ll enjoy wide open views north walks are graded so you can choose southdowns.gov.uk/enjoy over the and south to the English the best route for your abilities or those 01273 886200 Channel. Discover hidden churches, of your group. Every route has easy bus For more help contact the Compass: compass-travel.co.uk cosy pubs and, as the seasons change, or train links at both ends and you can South Downs Way Team on 01903 690025 everything from bluebells to blackberries. enjoy each walk in either direction. [email protected] Cuckmere: cuckmerebuses.org.uk 01273 625242 01323 870920 The Trail, which is free of stiles, is well THE DISCOVERY TICKET & District: signposted with the National Trail acorn MAPS AND GUIDES One of the most cost-effective ways to emsworthanddistrict.co.uk symbol, but it’s useful to have a map travel by bus around the South Downs 01243 372025 too so you can track your progress. We’ve listed the map number for the National Park is by using our Discovery Metrobus: metrobus.co.uk The entire length of the South Downs relevant OS Explorer map that you’ll Ticket. It gives unlimited travel across 01293 449191 Way can be accessed by bus and need for each walk. Maps can be the National Park and beyond in the Stagecoach: stagecoachbus.com train (and just one taxi) at convenient picked up in local shops or ordered South of for just £16 per day 0845 121 0190 intervals, so we’ve put together this from online retailers. for a family of five (two adults and three Southern Railway: booklet of 12 spectacular walks. children) or £8.50 for an adult and £7 Guides to the whole Trail are also southernrailway.com Let the adventure begin as you leave the for a child (5–15 years old). If you’re available. Two of these are the South 03451 27 29 20 car at home and soak up beautiful views making shorter journeys or travelling in Downs Way XT40, published by Bus: thesussexbus.com on the journey. Walk a satisfying one-way a small local area check bus companies Harvey, and the highly detailed (OS 01444 246693 stretch of the South Downs Way and then, own day tickets or individual single and 1:25,000) South Downs Way A-Z A FEW TIPS if your route finishes near one of the many return prices, as they may be cheaper. Adventure Atlas published by A-Z. There are also a number of books for ✦ Be at the stop a few minutes early. Walks are graded on the following scale: the South Downs Way including South ✦ Keep an eye out for your bus. Downs Way – Official National Trail ✦ Stick your hand out clearly. 1 MODERATE – possible loose, uneven and muddy surface with gates, Guide which is available from Aurum ✦ Bring cash for your ticket. stiles and moderate inclines. Routes up to five miles in length. Press and includes OS mapping for the ✦ Ask the driver to tell you when you 2 ENERGETIC – all the above, plus steeper inclines and routes up to whole route. As well as Walking the get to the right stop. seven miles in length. South Downs Way from Cicerone, or ✦ Give yourself plenty of time to get to 3 CHALLENGING – all the above on routes of seven miles or more. South Downs Way from Trailblazer. the bus stop at the end of your walk. WALKS ON THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY BY BUS AND TRAIN

MAKE A WEEKEND OF IT

© SDNPA/Mischa Haller Bus and train are great for a two day walk along the South Downs Way without having to go back and pick up the car. Any of the walks in this guide can be joined together to make up a longer trip with overnight stops. Here are just a few suggestions:

1 Housedean Farm – – 14 miles

✦ Grade: ENERGETIC ➤ Day one: Catch the 28/29 bus from Brighton, , or Tunbridge Wells to Housedean Farm. If arriving from Brighton, walk east, crossing the farm bridge over the A27 and joining the South Downs Way. If arriving from Lewes, simply turn left and join the South Downs Way. Head east to Southease (7 miles) 4 – Exton – Cheriton 15 miles and stay at the YHA South Downs. If you are planning a longer trip there is also a campsite at Housedean Farm. ✦ Grade: ENERGETIC ➤ Day two: Continue along the South Downs Way by crossing over the ➤ Day one: Catch the number 67 bus from Winchester or to East footbridge and heading east along the South Downs Way to Alfriston (7 miles). Meon. Walk south, out of the village along Chapel Street which becomes On arrival why not relax in one of the many pubs and cafés before catching either Coombe Road. Follow Coombe Road as it turns westward and then south again. the no.125 bus to Lewes, or the no.126 to Berwick and then the train to Lewes. 200m after the southern (left) bend, take the public footpath on the right. Follow the footpath westward, past the farm to join the South Downs Way heading west to Exton (7 miles) where there is a choice of B&Bs (see below). 2 Eastbourne – Alfriston – Eastbourne 19 miles ➤ Day two: Head west on the South Downs Way Footpath route to Gander Down ✦ Grade: CHALLENGING via Beacon Hill, then take the sign posted turn to Cheriton (8 miles) where you can ➤ Day one: Catch the bus or train to Eastbourne. Head towards the seafront and enjoy locally brewed beer in the Flowerpots Inn before catching the number 67 bus join the South Downs Way footpath (coastal route) heading west past back to Winchester. and the Seven Sisters to Alfriston (10.5 miles). Stay overnight in one of Alfriston’s many B&Bs, hotels or pubs. Exton ➤ Day two: Cross back over the bridge from Alfriston and head east on the There is no public transport serving the South Downs Way around Exton South Downs Way bridleway (inland route) via the of Wilmington and (in ) so here are some B&Bs and taxis available in the area: Jevington back to Eastbourne (8.5 miles). ✦ Lane Farm corhamptonlanefarm.co.uk ✦ Manor House extonbedandbreakfast.com 3 – Truleigh Hill – Washington 14.5 miles ✦ Buck’s Head thebuckshead.co.uk ✦ Petersfield axiT petersfieldtaxi.co.uk / 01730 303030 ✦ Grade: ENERGETIC ✦ Wintax wintaxcars.com / 01962 878727 ➤ Day one: Catch the 40/270/271/272/273 bus from Brighton, or to Pyecombe. Walk westbound through Pyecombe village, The fare from Exton to Winchester or Petersfield is around £25–£30. past the 11th century church and use the bridge to cross the road (A23). Follow the South Downs Way to your overnight stay at the YHA at Truleigh Hill. Lunch Accommodation options en-route include the Hiker’s Rest at Saddlescombe Farm or the at For details of accommodation along the South Downs Way visit the Devil’s Dyke (5.5 miles). following websites: ➤ Day two: Walk westbound to Washington via the and ✦ nationaltrail.co.uk/south-downs-way/plan (9 miles) and catch the number 100 bus back to Burgess Hill ✦ yha.org.uk and beyond or, the number 1 bus between and or, the number ✦ tripadvisor.co.uk 23 between and Worthing. WALK WINCHESTER WALK A DAY OUT FROM WINCHESTER 1 TO CHEESEFOOT HEAD NORTH 1 WINCHESTER TO CHEESEFOOT HEAD

M3 6 MILES ◆ 3 HOURS ◆ GRADE: MODERATE WINCHESTER A272 Head out of Winchester beside the crystal clear River Itchen onto the Downs Thornacre WINCHESTER FINISH for sweeping views in all directions and the beautiful leafy . CITY MILL B3404 Farm START LOOK OUT FOR A31 KEEPER’S Winchester City Mill by the bridge at the start of the walk, trout drifting in the ALL SAINTS COTTAGE clear water of the River Itchen and the old granary on staddle stones at . CHURCH A272 M3 THE WALK THE JOURNEY BACK Chilcomb ➤ Start: From opposite Winchester The no.64 bus runs to Winchester every THE BLACK Little BOY PUB Golders City Mill, at the bottom of the High 30 minutes (every 2 hours on Sunday). Street, head down the riverside path until it joins College Walk. Follow this left USEFUL INFORMATION M3 and turn left at the corner, then left again CHEESEFOOT along Wharf Hill past the Black Boy pub ✦ Refreshments: There are plenty to INSET MAP 70% of original size INSET MAP 70% of original size HEAD and Black Rat restaurant. Go straight on, choose from in Winchester or why not over the cross roads and up East Hill, have a picnic on the Trail. ! then bear right onto Petersfield Road. START FINISH ✦ Toilets: In Winchester only. ! Go straight ahead on the footpath,

0 then turn right along a tarmac path to ✦ 3 Maps: OS Explorer OL32 or 3 a footbridge over the M3. From here South Downs Way Guide 3 B B3404 follow the South Downs Way sign posts. (available from nationaltrail.co.uk/ FINISH A31 START south-downs-way). WINCHESTER ■ Finish: One mile after crossing the CITY MILL A31 B3330 A272 at Cheesefoot Head the South (Between 8–19 August, path closures Downs way turns right at Keeper’s and diversions due to a festival may Cottage – this is where you leave the mean you are unable to complete this South Downs Way turning left along route, check the nationaltrail.co.uk/ a lane until you reach the A31 (400 south-downs-way website for metres). The bus stop is on your left. full details.) KEEPER’S COTTAGE THE BLACK BOY PUB

The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way THE© SDNPA/Sam SOUTH DOWNS Moore WAY OFFICIAL GUIDE © SDNPA/Mischa Haller WALK QUEEN ELIZABETH COUNTRY PARK WALK A DAY OUT FROM PETERSFIELD 2 TO EAST MEON NORTH QUEEN ELIZABETH COUNTRY PARK FINISH Frogmore Ramsdean 2 TO EAST MEON EAST MEON 6 MILES ◆ 3 HOURS ◆ GRADE: ENERGETIC EAST Fourty Acres MEON Oxenbourne Cottages CHURCH Farm Enjoy a morning coffee at the Country Park Café , stunning views from the top of and end with dinner or a drink in one of East Meon’s cosy pubs. COOMBE CROSS LOOK OUT FOR

Downland flowers and insects, interesting ecobuildings at the Sustainability BUTSER HILL Centre and picture-perfect cottages in East Meon village. Wetherdown Barn THE JOURNEY OUT THE JOURNEY BACK A3 SUSTAINABILITY The no.37 bus leaves Petersfield Square The no.67 bus runs eight times a day CENTRE Homelands Farm hourly and takes just 10 minutes to get from East Meon to Petersfield (four times to Queen Elizabeth Country Park. Make on Saturdays, no bus on Sundays). sure the driver knows that you want to The journey takes 15 minutes. QUEEN ELIZABETH Hambledon Lodge get off at the bus stop on the busy A3. COUNTRY PARK

INSET MAP 70% of original size INSET MAP 70% of original size START THE WALK USEFUL INFORMATION

START FINISH ➤ Start: From the bus stop follow the ✦ Refreshments: Country Park Café,

A3 path down into the Country Park and Beech Café @ Sustainability Centre turn left to the Visitor Centre. Follow and pubs in East Meon.

A3 the South Downs Way signs through ✦ Toilets: Country Park, Sustainability the tunnel under the main road and up EAST MEON Centre and East Meon. CHURCH Butser Hill. Then simply follow the South Downs Way signposts. ✦ Maps: OS Explorer OL8 & OL3, or the South Downs Way Guide A3 ■ Finish: 1 ¼ miles after the nationaltrail.co.uk/ FINISH Sustainability Centre you arrive at a (available from south-downs-way). crossroads with a lane at Coombe Cross. Continue straight across for a further ½ mile then turn right at the next

A3 path junction marked East Meon. On meeting the lane turn left to the village of East Meon. The bus stop is outside the Church. START

The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way WALKS ON THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY BY BUS AND TRAIN © SDNPA WALK WALK A DAY OUT FROM UPPARK TO COCKING DOWN 3 NORTH UPPARK TO COCKING DOWN SOUTH 3 7½ MILES ◆ 3–4 HOURS ◆ GRADE: ENERGETIC UPPARK Climb this beautiful wooded stretch of the South Downs to Harting Down and

B2146 TOWER BEACON Beacon Hill before descending Cocking Down to the bus at Hilltop. HILL HILL A286 LOOK OUT FOR START Farm COCKING UPPARK HARTING Tower Hill – the ruin of an 18th century banqueting room, the memorial to a DOWNS Monkton German pilot, an ancient yew woodland, red kites in flight, Andy Goldsworthy’s Cottage FINISH B2141 Warren Bottom chalk stone sculpture and the Devil’s Jumps burial mounds. THE North 6 COCKING DOWN THE JOURNEY OUT THE JOURNEY BACK

Marden ROYAL 8

2 A Catch the no.54 bus from Chichester The no.60 bus runs to Chichester every (no bus on Sundays or bank 30 minutes with stops at Hilltop and holidays), from the bus stop on the Cocking village. main road outside the bus station, opposite the railway station. Ask the USEFUL INFORMATION INSET MAP 70% of original size ! INSET MAP 70% of original size driver to stop at the South Downs Way – just after Uppark House. The journey ✦ Refreshments: You’ll need a picnic takes just over half an hour. START FINISH for this one as there are no refreshments until Cocking village.

THE WALK ✦ Toilets: No public toilets.

➤ Start: When you get off the bus ✦ Maps: OS Explorer OL8, or TOWER carefully cross the road and follow the South Downs Way Guide HILL South Downs Way up the path through (available from nationaltrail.co.uk/ START the woods – it’s easy to follow with south-downs-way). 6 plenty of signposts. 14 2 6 B 8 ■ Finish: You’ll arrive at the A286 at 2

A Hilltop, about a mile south of Cocking. Carefully cross to the bus stop on the far side of the road. Alternatively, continue a little further along the Trail until you reach a restricted byway at Hill Barn, FINISH turn left here to take a traffic free route UPPARK into the village for refreshments.

The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way WALKS ON THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY BY BUS AND TRAIN © Stewart Garside WALK WALK A DAY OUT FROM MIDHURST HILLTOP/COCKING TO LITTLETON FARM 4 NORTH 4 HILLTOP/COCKING TO LITTLETON FARM A286 5 MILES ◆ 2½–3 HOURS ◆ GRADE: MODERATE BLUEBELL INN VILLAGE Climb gently up to Down, following the South Downs Way along the Heyshott ridge of the Downs before descending Littleton Down. SHOP MOONLIGHT TEAROOMS LOOK OUT FOR START Manor Farm Ancient burial barrows on top of Heyshott Down and amazing views to the west as you reach the top of the climb. HILLTOP/COCKING A286 A285 THE JOURNEY OUT THE JOURNEY BACK

Hop on the no.60 bus at Midhurst bus From the Littleton Farm bus stop the LITTLETON FARM station which runs every 30 minutes no.99 bus takes you south to Chichester Monday to Saturday. Ask the driver or north to . This is a Monday FINISH for the South Downs Way bus stop to Saturday flexible service – book at on Cocking Hill (about 13 minutes). least 30 minutes in advance on 01903 Alternatively, take the no.60 bus up to 264776. (Connections to Midhurst from INSET MAP 70% of original size A285 INSET MAP 70% of original size ! Cocking Hill from Chichester. both towns).

START FINISH THE WALK USEFUL INFORMATION ➤ Start: From the southbound bus ✦ Refreshments: There is a drinking BLUEBELL INN stop stay on the same side of the road, water tap and farm shop at Manor walk back along the verge and take Farm, Hill Barn. Alternatively, pick up the track on your right, following the supplies in Cocking Village Shop or MOONLIGHT South Downs Way uphill. At the top of visit the Bluebell Inn in Cocking village. TEAROOMS the hill look back for amazing views to ✦ Toilets: No public toilets. the west. From now on your views are FINISH limited due to woodland and slightly ✦ Maps: OS Explorer OL8, or 6 8 5 higher ground but look out for ancient South Downs Way Guide 2 8 2 cross dykes and burial mounds on nationaltrail.co.uk/ A (available from A Heyshott Down. south-downs-way). ■ Finish: Descend Littleton Down to the A285 to Littleton Farm and bus stops. START

The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way WALKS ON THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY BY BUS AND TRAIN © John Wigley WALK WALK A DAY OUT FROM CHICHESTER LITTLETON FARM TO AMBERLEY 5 NORTH B2138 5 LITTLETON FARM TO AMBERLEY 7 MILES ◆ 3–4 HOURS ◆ GRADE: ENERGETIC Sutton A285 LITTLETON FARM Explore rolling hills and woodland, with wide open views over the Weald and the sea. Reward yourself with a pint or cup of tea by the river and perhaps a visit to START the Amberley Museum & Heritage Centre before the train home. West Burton AMBERLEY LOOK OUT FOR BURY A beautiful variety of trees, the site of a Roman road (marked with a big signpost), Toby’s stone memorial, skylarks, the ’s heritage sheep, the River A29 Arun with the old stone bridge at Amberley station and Amberley Museum. AMBERLEY MUSEUM THE JOURNEY OUT THE JOURNEY BACK

B2139 To catch the no.99 bus you need Trains leave Amberley every hour – HOUGHTON FINISH to phone and book (at least it’s a 10 minute ride to Ford where you 30 minutes before) on 01903 change trains for Chichester. The whole AMBERLEY RAILWAY STATION A284 264776. Ask for Littleton Farm bus journey takes about half an hour. INSET MAP 70% of original size MadehurstINSET MAP 70% of original size North Stoke stop. The no.99 bus leaves from West Street opposite , USEFUL INFORMATION the journey takes about 40 minutes. START FINISH ✦ Refreshments: You’ll need a picnic THE WALK to get you to Amberley but once there you have a choice of The Riverside ➤ Start: From the bus stop carefully tearoom or the Bridge Inn.

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3 cross the road and follow the South 1 AMBERLEY ✦ Toilets: At Amberley. 2 MUSEUM Downs Way up the track; it’s easy to B ") follow as there are plenty of sign posts. ✦ Maps: OS Explorer OL10, or South Downs Way Guide ■ Finish: After crossing the footbridge START (available from nationaltrail.co.uk/ !!! FINISH over the river turn right and follow 5 139 south-downs-way). 8 B2 2 RAILWAY the path along the river to Amberley A STATION railway station.

The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way © John Wigley © Anne Purkiss WALK WALK A DAY OUT FROM CHICHESTER AMBERLEY TO WASHINGTON 6 NORTH 6 AMBERLEY TO WASHINGTON 6 MILES ◆ 3 HOURS ◆ GRADE: ENERGETIC B2139River Stor A283 Enjoy views over the patchwork fields of the Weald and a variety of ancient FINISH AMBERLEY earthworks and burial mounds, perfect spots for a picnic. B2139 AMBERLEY RACKHAM WASHINGTON LOOK OUT FOR CASTLE BANKS Views of Amberley Castle and the chalk pits of Amberley Museum, gliders from Downs Farm nearby Southdown Gliding Club soaring overhead, Rackham Banks and other ancient earthworks and burial mounds. AMBERLEY RAILWAY STATION THE FRANKLAND START A24 ARMS THE JOURNEY OUT THE JOURNEY BACK

North Stoke Take the train from Chichester (or From Washington take the Stagecoach Worthing) to Amberley; you will need to no.1 or Metrobus no.23 to Worthing change trains at Ford. railway station. South Stoke A280 THE WALK USEFUL INFORMATION INSET MAP 70% of original size INSET MAP 70% of original size FINDON ➤ Start: From the railway station ✦ Refreshments: The Riverside tearoom or the Bridge Inn at START FINISH cross the road, turn right and follow the footpath until you see High Titten Amberley or Frankland Arms in Washington. A283 and the South Downs Way signs on the opposite side of the road. Cross here ✦ Toilets: No public toilets on this route and walk up the track to follow the 9 other than those found in pubs etc.

3 South Downs Way along the Downs. 1 AMBERLEY 2 MUSEUM A24 ✦ Maps: OS Explorer OL10, or

B ") ! A283 ■ Finish: Towards the end of the FINISH ! South Downs Way Guide walk the South Downs Way splits nationaltrail.co.uk/ THE (available from offering a choice of two routes down south-downs-way). ! FRANKLAND 9 !! START into Washington. Take the left option 213 ARMS B RAILWAY to avoid crossing the busy A24. A STATION footbridge takes you over the A24 into Washington Village. At the T-junction turn left for the pub and bus stops near A24 the recreation ground, or right if you are planning to walk further along the South Downs Way.

The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way WALKS ON THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY BY BUS AND TRAIN © Rebecca Saunders WALK WASHINGTON TO AND WALK A DAY OUT FROM WORTHING 7 THE RIVER ADUR NORTH WASHINGTON TO BOTOLPHS AND A283 THE RIVER ADUR A24 7

B2135 7 MILES ◆ 3 HOURS ◆ GRADE: ENERGETIC WASHINGTON START A283 This classic open walk takes in chalk grassland, arable farmland and stunning 360° views from the top of the Downs. CHANCTONBURY RING LOOK OUT FOR

STEYNING Stunning panoramic views across the county, a dew pond thought to date back to Pepperscombe River times and the Hill Fort, Chanctonbury Ring, where evidence of Farm Adur a Roman temple was found during excavations following the . Castle A24 BOTOLPHS AND Town THE JOURNEY OUT THE JOURNEY BACK THE RIVER ADUR New Hill FINISH From Worthing take the Stagecoach From the A283 take the no.2 bus to Barn bus no.1 or Metrobus no.23 to Shoreham-by-Sea for onward train A280 Washington Village. Ask the driver for connections, or the no.106 bus back

A283 ST BOTOLPHS the Washington Bostal stop. to Worthing. Findon CHURCH CISSBURY INSET MAP 70% of original size INSET MAP 70% of original size RING FORT THE WALK USEFUL INFORMATION ➤ ✦ START FINISH Start: The South Downs Way rises Refreshments: In Washington, out from a small car park to the south Bramber, Upper Beeding and of the village, a short walk from the Shoreham-by-Sea. A283 A A2 2 Washington Bostal/Stokes Mead bus 83 0 ✦ 3 Toilets: No public toilets on this route stops. Follow the National Trail symbols 7 other than those found in pubs etc. to stay on the South Downs Way, Public toilets can be found in Bramber. A24 though you can take a diversion to visit A283 the impressive Hill Fort ✦ Maps: OS Explorer OL10, or 1½ miles to the south. South Downs Way Guide THE !( FINISH FRANKLAND ■ Finish: The walk drops down into (available from nationaltrail.co.uk/ ARMS south-downs-way). A the Adur Valley and the hamlet of

2 8 Botolphs with its Saxon Church. To 3 START catch the bus or to carry on walking ST BOTOLPHS the South Downs Way, cross the river CHURCH A24 and then the busy A283, turning left for both the bus stop and the continuation of the South Downs Way. Alternatively, take the riverside footpath north into The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Bramber village where refreshments Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop and bus stops can be found. South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way WALKS ON THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY BY BUS AND TRAIN © Sean Lewis WALK WALK A DAY OUT FROM BRIGHTON PYECOMBE TO DEVIL’S DYKE 8 NORTH A2 PYECOMBE TO DEVIL’S DYKE A281 3 Tu nnel PYECOMBE 8 (T) A281 A23(T) 3 MILES ◆ 2 HOURS ◆ GRADE: MODERATE A273 PYECOMBE CHURCH A273 Climb over West Hill to historic Saddlescombe Farm, home to the Hiker’s Rest café. From there it’s a 30–45 minute walk to Devil’s Dyke where you can enjoy THE PLOUGH INN START stunning views and an alfresco pint while you wait for the bus home. LOOK OUT FOR

A23(T) Pyecombe Church and its tapsel gate, historic Saddlecombe Farm and donkey wheel, chalkland butterflies, Devil’s Dyke: the longest dry valley in the country, and views over the Weald. SADDLESCOMBE FARM THE JOURNEY OUT THE JOURNEY BACK FINISH DEVIL’S DYKE " Head to Churchill Square (stop E) The no.77 bus runs approximately in Brighton and catch Metrobus every hour Sat, Sun and Bank Holidays. no.270/271/272/273 or Sussexbus A Mon–Fri service runs during the no.40, leaving about every 15 minutes summer. It is essential to check current DEVIL’S DYKE HOTEL INSET MAP 70% of original size (but only a few on Sundays). Ask the timetables when planning your walk – driver for Pyecombe Garage. The buses.co.uk journey takes about 23 minutes START FINISH (4 minutes after the Black Lion, ).

3 7 2 A THE WALK USEFUL INFORMATION A 23 ➤ Start: Go past the BP Garage and ✦ Refreshments: Shop at Pyecombe A273 FINISH turn right at The Plough Inn up Church Garage or DIY tea at the church THE DEVIL’S Lane. At the church turn left onto the (donations welcomed), Hiker’s Rest A A23 2 PYECOMBE DYKE PUB South Downs Way and follow the café at Saddlescombe Farm and Devil’s 7 A273 3 CHURCH signposts. Dyke pub. START ■ Finish: At Devil’s Dyke turn right ✦ Toilets: Pyecombe Church,

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A 2 along the lane to the bus stop by the pub. Saddlescombe Farm, Devil’s Dyke. 2 7 3 3 ✦ Maps: OS Explorer OL11, or DEVIL’S DYKE THE PLOUGH INN South Downs Way Guide GOLF COURSE DEVIL’S 3 (available from nationaltrail.co.uk/ 7 CLUB HOUSE DYKE 2 south-downs-way).

A FARM

The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way © SDNPA/Mischa Haller WALKS ON THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY BY BUS AND TRAIN WALK WALK A DAY OUT FROM BRIGHTON HOUSEDEAN FARM TO PYECOMBE 9 NORTH HOUSEDEAN FARM TO PYECOMBE Clayton 9 JACK AND JILL PLUMPTON 8½ MILES ◆ 4–5 HOURS ◆ GRADE: CHALLENGING WINDMILLS B2116 A273 After a long climb you can enjoy stunning views across fields and villages from the top of Beacon. Visit on a Sunday afternoon in summer and you PYECOMBE CHURCH DITCHLING Streathill may find the Jill Windmill open to visitors. A23 FINISH BEACON Farm

PYECOMBE LOOK OUT FOR

Chalkland flowers and butterflies, , Jack and Jill windmills and Pyecombe Church with its unusual lead font which dates back to the 12th century.

HOUSEDEAN FARM A23(T) THE JOURNEY OUT THE JOURNEY BACK

Hop on the number 28/29/29B bus at Metrobus 270/271/272/273 or Patcham Housedean Churchill Square (stop G) in Brighton – Sussexbus 40 will take you back to Brighton. They run about every 15 Cottages the journey takes 23 minutes. Listen out START minutes (only a few on Sundays). A27(T) Colddean for the Housedean Farm stop about one A27(T) minute after Falmer Village. A27(T) B2123 BRIGHTON HOUSEDEAN INSET MAP 70% of original size FARM

A23 A270 A27(T) THE WALK USEFUL INFORMATION START FINISH ➤ Start: From Housedean Farm and ✦ Refreshments: Take a picnic 3 Campsite, turn right along the South as, other than an ice cream van 7 2 Downs Way where the Trail is then at Ditchling in summer, there’s A well signposted. nothing until Pyecombe. At Pyecombe A 23 you’ll find self-service tea in the ■ Finish: HOUSEDEAN A273 At Pyecombe Church, turn church (donations welcomed), the FARM PYECOMBE left onto Church Lane and left again at Plough Inn and a shop at the garage. A A23 2 CHURCH the bottom to the BP Garage – the bus START 7 A27 3 shelter is on the far side of the garage. ✦ Toilets: Pyecombe Church. !!( A273 ! A27 ! ✦ ! Maps: OS Explorer OL11, or !( FINISH South Downs Way Guide A 2 (available from nationaltrail.co.uk/ 3

A south-downs-way

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THE PLOUGH INN 3

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The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way © SDNPA/Sam Moore WALKS ON THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY BY BUS AND TRAIN WALK WALK A DAY OUT FROM LEWES HOUSEDEAN FARM TO SOUTHEASE 10 NORTH A26 HOUSEDEAN FARM TO SOUTHEASE A27(T) A27 10 START HOUSEDEAN FARM 8½ MILES ◆ 4–5 HOURS ◆ GRADE: CHALLENGING Housedean Cottages Climb up onto the Downs and follow the ridge to Southease village enjoying sweeping views north over the Weald. Take a look at the medieval wall paintings in Southease Church and finish with tea at the YHA café just beyond Southease Station.

Ilford LOOK OUT FOR

Sheep grazing, paragliders gliding, the Southease swing bridge and the River Ouse. Consider a detour to Village where you will find Monks House, Rodmell once home to Virginia and and now a National Trust property.

SOUTHEASE THE JOURNEY OUT CHURCH THE JOURNEY BACK FINISH Mill Number 28/29/29B buses leave Lewes Trains run hourly to Lewes or the no. Hill YHA bus station every 10 minutes – the 123 bus runs about every two hours. SOUTHEASE journey takes about 10 minutes. Ask the INSET MAP 70% of original size driver for Housedean Farm and listen USEFUL INFORMATION A26(T) out for the stop announcement. START FINISH ✦ Refreshments: There is a water THE WALK tap at Southease Church and a café at the YHA hostel just past ➤ Start: From the bus stop bear left Southease Station. round the corner and through a gate ✦ Toilets: YHA café near onto the South Downs Way. The Trail is HOUSEDEAN Southease Station. FARM then well signposted. YHA ✦ Maps: OS Explorer OL11, or ■ Finish: Return by bus from the stop 27 START FINISH South Downs Way Guide A !!( on the main road just before Southease ! A27 (available from nationaltrail.co.uk/ ! village, or by train from Southease RAILWAY south-downs-way). ! STATION station which is ½ mile past the village,

SOUTHEASE 6 on the South Downs Way.

CHURCH 2

A

The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way © SDNPA/AndrewPickettPhoto.com © SDNPA/Mischa Haller WALK ALFRISTON TO SEVEN SISTERS WALK A DAY OUT FROM EASTBOURNE 11 VISITOR CENTRE NORTH ALFRISTON TO SEVEN SISTERS START VISITOR CENTRE ALFRISTON CHURCH 11 AND 3 MILES ◆ 2 HOURS ◆ GRADE: ENERGETIC ALFRISTON Lullington Meander your way along the Cuckmere River to the pretty village of Litlington, then over wooded downland (with two steep climbs and lots of steps) to the Seven Sisters Visitor Centre.

Tile Barn LITLINGTON LOOK OUT FOR Alfriston church and Clergy House, dragonflies and water birds on the river, Litlington village and views of the Cuckmere River winding its way towards the sea.

THE JOURNEY OUT THE JOURNEY BACK

Charleston Catch the no. 125 bus (126 on The no. 12 Coaster bus leaves every Manor Sundays) from Eastbourne Terminus 10–15minutes and will whisk you back SEVEN SISTERS Road (stop M), near the railway station – to Eastbourne in 17 minutes. The 12X VISITOR CENTRE the journey to Alfriston takes about service will also take you back 35 minutes. to Eastbourne. INSET MAP 70% of originalSEAFORD size A259 FINISH THE WALK USEFUL INFORMATION START FINISH ➤ Start: The bus drops off at the ✦ Refreshments: There are a choice coach park on Monday to Saturday, of pubs and cafés in Alfriston, Plough or at the market cross on Sundays. & Harrow pub and a tea garden in From the market cross go down River Litlington and the Saltmarsh Kitchen at Lane and follow the South Downs Way the Seven Sisters Visitor Centre. signposts. From the coach park take the EXCEAT – ✦ Toilets: At the start and path at the southern end over the stile to VISITOR finish locations. CENTRE the river, turn right to join the Trail. ✦ Maps: START A ■ Finish: Go through the Seven Sisters OS Explorer OL25, or 25 9 Visitor Centre and follow the signpost South Downs Way Official FINISH National Trail Guide to the bus shelter (on the near side of (available from nationaltrail.co.uk/ the road). Alternatively, if you’d like ALFRISTON ") south-downs-way). CHURCH AND a longer walk you can carry on to CLERGY HOUSE Eastbourne along the coastal footpath/ inland bridleway route.

The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way © SDNPA/Sam Moore WALK WALK A DAY OUT FROM EASTBOURNE SEVEN SISTERS TO EASTBOURNE 12 NORTH A2270 12 SEVEN SISTERS TO EASTBOURNE START 7½ MILES ◆ 3–4 HOURS ◆ GRADE: CHALLENGING SEVEN SISTERS Blow away the cobwebs on this bracing coastal hike. With plenty of ups and A259 downs you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the meandering Cuckmere River and the iconic Seven Sisters. Stop for a well-earned cuppa at Birling Gap Tea Rooms. Friston A259 B2103 LOOK OUT FOR East Dean Rabbits and sheep nibbling the chalk grassland, Belle Tout and Beachy Head lighthouses, the white cliffs of the Seven Sisters, blooming yellow gorse and the EASTBOURNE FINISH meandering river at with its water birds on the river. CUCKMERE HAVEN SEVEN BIRLING GAP THE JOURNEY OUT THE JOURNEY BACK SISTERS TEAROOMS Birling Gap Catch the no. 12 or 12X bus to Seven Take the no.3 or 3A bus to the town Sisters Country Park Visitor Centre. centre and railway station. These Buses leave from Eastbourne, Terminus buses run every 30 mins during the BELLE TOUT Road (stop J) near the railway station week (until about 6pm) and hourly on LIGHTHOUSE INSET MAP 70% of original size BEACHY HEAD every 10–15 minutes and the journey Sundays. Alternatively, it is 1½ miles LIGHTHOUSE takes about 17 minutes. walk along the prom to the pier. START FINISH THE WALK USEFUL INFORMATION

➤ Start: The South Downs Way goes ✦ Refreshments: Saltmarsh Kitchen at right from the bus stop – follow the path the start, Birling Gap Tea Room and uphill towards the coast. Beachy Head pub. EXCEAT – ■ Finish: The walk ends at the ✦ Toilets: Seven Sisters Visitor Centre, VISITOR refreshment kiosk in Eastbourne. The Beachy Head and Eastbourne. CENTRE FINISH bus stop is straight ahead on the left B3330 ✦ Maps: OS Explorer OL25, or A side of Dukes Drive. 25 9 South Downs Way Guide START (available from nationaltrail.co.uk/ English south-downs-way). Channel

The walk National Park border Buildings Woodland Start/finish route Rivers and open water Points of interest Bus stop South Downs Way Road Village shop Railway station Public right of way © SDNPA/Chris Mole © SDNPA SUMMARY OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT LINKS See page 2 for bus and train company contact details.

Places you can access the See map Connections to reach origin point Mon–Sat Sunday South Downs Way by bus Operated by Bus number on back in column 1 frequency frequency or train page Winchester Train/bus Well connected by rail and bus A A31, Alresford Road Stagecoach 64 Winchester bus station, Alton Station Every 30 5 per day B mins Exton Taxi only C East Meon Stagecoach 67 Petersfield Square, Winchester bus station 8 per day D Queen Elizabeth Country Park Stagecoach 37 bus station, Petersfield Square Hourly 5 per day E Buriton Cross Roads Stagecoach 37/94 Havant bus station, Petersfield Square, Hourly 5 per day F Greenway Lane, Wheeldrive Chichester outside bus station, 4 per day Uppark House Gate, Emsworth and 54 Petersfield Square 5 per day South Downs Way District Cocking Stagecoach 60 Chichester bus station, Midhurst bus station Every 30 Hourly G A286, South Downs Way mins Littleton Farm Compass Travel 99* Chichester West St, Petworth Square 6 per day* H A285, South Downs Way *must book: 01903 264776 Amberley Southern Train , , , Hourly Hourly I Station Chichester, Washington Stagecoach 1 Worthing South Street, Pulborough Station, Hourly 6 per day J Recreation Ground Metrobus 23 Worthing South Street, Horsham Station, 100 Pulborough Station, , Hourly Burgess Hill Station Upper Beeding Brighton & Hove 2 Brighton Churchill Square (stop C), Hourly Hourly K A283, ½ mile south of village Shoreham Station Devil’s Dyke Brighton & Hove 77 Brighton Churchill Square (stop H) or Approx. Approx. L Station (stop E) hourly (Mon hourly – Fri only in summer) Pyecombe Metrobus 270/271/272 Brighton Churchill Square (stop E), Every 15 4 per day M BP Garage, A273 Sussex Bus 273/40 Burgess Hill, mins Ditchling Beacon Brighton & Hove 79 Brighton Old Steine (stop U) or Hourly, Sat & Hourly, Sat & N Station (stop D) Sun only Sun only Housedean Farm A27 Brighton & Hove 28/29/29B Brighton Churchill Square (stop G), Every 10 Every 30 O Lewes, Uckfield mins mins Southease Southern Train Brighton, Lewes, Seaford, Hourly Hourly P Station, Bus shelter (123) Compass Travel 123 Lewes Bus Station, Newhaven 6 per day Alfriston Coach Park (125) Compass Travel 125 Eastbourne Terminus Road (stop M), 4 per day 5 per day Q Lewes Bus Station, Alfriston Market Cross (126) Cuckmere Buses 126 Eastbourne Terminus Road (stop M) 4 per day 5 per day Seven Sisters Country Park Brighton & Hove 12/12X Brighton Churchill Square (stop E), Every 10 5 per day R Visitor Centre, Exceat Eastbourne Terminus Road (stop J) mins Eastbourne Stagecoach 3/3A Eastbourne Terminus Road (stop M) Every 30 Hourly S Foot of Beachy Head mins South Downs National Park Authority Tel: 01730 814810 South Downs Centre, North Street, Midhurst, southdowns.gov.uk NATIONAL PARK , GU29 9DH @SDNPA /SDNPA

SDNPA/fluiddesignstudio.com/September ‘16. © SDNPA Crown Copyright. Front cover photo: © SDNPA/Mischa Haller