Gay Outdoor Club: Sussex Walks 2008

Contact details for Sussex Group.

The group meets on the second Sunday of each month.

Sunday 13 January. This 7 mile walk, starting from Kingston near Lewes, follows paths along the Ouse valley and passes through the picturesque villages of Rodmell and Iford. The return route climbs to the summit of the downland escarpment to follow the South Downs Way. Start at the gate to the church in The Street, Kingston, which leaves the road through the village next to The Juggs pub. Bring packed lunch.

Sunday 10 February. A 7½ mile walk starting from Washington village and climbing to the top of the scarp of the Downs where we encounter the long views and big skies of the undulating landscape. After a steep descent we return along the foot of the Downs, taking the opportunity to explore Sullington village on the way. Meet opposite the Frankland Arms pub. Turn east off the A24 onto the A283, 6 miles north of Worthing, and follow the signs in 300 yards for Washington. Bring packed lunch.

Sunday 2 March. A joint walk with the West Kent group. An 8 mile circular walk from Ringmer to Barcombe Cross via Barcombe Mills. There will be a pub stop en-route or bring a packed lunch. Meet at Ringmer church.

Sunday 13 April. We return to a favourite 8 mile walk from Birling Gap over the Seven Sisters to Cuckmere Haven and Exceat Farm, with fine views all round, returning through Friston Forest. Meet in the car park at Birling Gap, 4 miles west of Eastbourne. Bring packed lunch.

Sunday 18 May. Joint walk (with Solent) around Pagham Harbour. Meet in Pagham Road opposite Village Hall car park (4 miles south of A27 at Chichester - a small dog leg road from Bognor roundabout). When you arrive at Pagham, drive past the Bear Inn, the Lamb Inn and the United Reformed Church, and Village Hall is next on left. Lunch stop at the busy Anchor Inn at Sidlesham and at the end coffee/tea and cakes.
Friday 20 - Monday 23 June. Isle of Wight weekend. Joint with Solent and Surrey

Saturday 21 June. A 7 1/2 mile circular walk in the south of the island commencing at Niton and climbing the hills to the north of the town, including St.Catherine's Hill and a visit to the Oratory there, and returning via Blackgang and St.Catherine's Point. Meet at Church St. bus stop, Niton. Walk finishes at Rectory Road bus stop. Bring packed lunch.

Sunday 22 June. An 8 3/4 mile linear walk from Ryde to Newport, commencing westwards along the coastal path, visiting Quarr Abbey, Fishbourne, Wootton Bridge and the Steam Railway along the route, and returning by bus from Newport. Start at the Dorset Hotel, 31 Dover Street, Ryde. Picnic lunch at Wootton Common or pub lunch at The Cedars, 2 Station Rd., Wootton Bridge (located at the Common).

Monday 23 June. A visit to Carisbrooke Castle or a trip on the Steam Railway.

Sunday 27 July. Joint walk with Surrey group. Views and a villa. Bignor Hill and the Roman villa (there will be a chance to visit the remains of the villa with splendid mosaics - admission £4.60) returning along Stane Street, 9 miles. Meet at Bignor Hill car park. From the bottom of Bury Hill on the A29 take the road to West Burton and then on to Bignor. As you approach Bignor at a sharp right-hand bend carry straight on and promptly turn left. This road takes you up onto the Downs and to the car park. Watch out for cars coming down as it is a bit narrow in places. Please bring a packed lunch.

Sunday 24 August. A 6¾ mile walk commencing at West Hoathly, an attractive village with period buildings. There will be extensive views across Weir Wood reservoir and we shall pass near to a rock outcrop popular with climbers, and close to the National Trust property of Standen. West Hoathly is situated about 2½ miles south east of Turners Hill. Leave the B2028 1 mile south east of Turners Hill, turning onto the unclassified Selsfield Rd. Turn right into North Lane opposite West Hoathly garage. Meet by the pub, opposite the church. On street parking is available near the church and pub. Bring packed lunch.

Sunday 14 September. Details to follow

Sunday 12 October. Details to follow

Sunday 9. November. Details to follow

Sunday 14 December. Details to follow

For further information see the GOC Outdoors magazine.