Etchingham to Wadhurst for Fireworks

Length: 17.3km (10.7 miles), 5 out of 10 T=swc.208

After a fairly flat start across the valley of the River Rother, this is a classic Wealden walk - a hilly mix of pasture and woodland, fine panoramic views across valleys, a succession of converted oast houses, a cobnut orchard, and the typical Wealden villages of Ticehurst and Wadhurst. The route also passes very close to the shore of the beautiful Bewl Water reservoir and there is an optional extra loop (see Walk Options below) which takes you down to hidden places on its shoreline.

The main reason for posting this walk today, is to attend the bonfire and fireworks in Wadhurst (see below). If doing this, probably do the extended loop to help fill in the time. It adds 3.5km (2.2 miles).

Trains: Get the 0945 from Charing Cross (0954 London Bridge) arriving 1101. Return trains from Wadhurst 1651, 1729, 1801 and later 2029, 2101, 2129 2201. Buy an Etchingham return.

Lunch: There is a choice of two pubs in Ticehurst for lunch. The Bell in the village itself is the first you come to after 6.4km (4 miles) but the Bull in Three Legged Cross, another 1km (0.6 miles) further on, is the recommended option.

Tea: Artful Grocers, a food store with a cafe attached, which is open till 5pm or the White Hart "serving tea in pots". The Greyhound looks to be open again under new management.

Fireworks

Gates open at 17:30 and the bonfire is lit at approximately 18:30. We aim to get everybody in quickly, but safety is our number one priority - so leave yourself time to get in, grab some food and get a good view of the fire. The fireworks are 19:30. The gates are closed 10 minutes prior to the fireworks being fired.

Traditionally, after the fireworks, we take the back lane route to the station picking up 'supplies' on the way, hopefully getting the 2101. If you take the direct road route (with its pavement) you should get the 2029.