Approx 14 km (9 miles), about 5/10
Today I suggest trying a combination of parts of two walks to make a less strenuous south downs walk given the conditions, plus a seaside finish. Hopefully it won't be too hot for the morning section and a strong breeze is forecast later. Follow the start of the Glynde to Seaford walk (Book 1 walk 31) as far as Bo Peep car park on the main South Downs ridge, then switch to the directions of the Seaford circular SWC.314 as far as Bishopstone where there is a nice beachfront cafe and possible swimming if the wind isn't too strong. Several longer versions possible, most obviously continuing along the seafront for 2 km or so to Seaford.
Travel: 0954 from Victoria (Clapham Junction 1001 East Croydon 1010) changing at Lewes on to the 1114 arriving at Glynde 1119. Returns from Bishopstone via Lewes at 27 and 56.
Lunch: The only pub lunch option is the popular Ram Inn at West Firle (01273 858222), only 4 km/2 ½ miles into the walk. A picnic could be taken later on top of the downs e.g. at Firle Beacon if it isn't too windy there.
Tea: the Galley Cafe at the Newhaven and Seaford Sailing Club (open till 5), on the beach front less than 5 minutes walk past Bishopstone station.
L=1.31 for the start and see Seaford circular SWC.314 for the map, directions and GPX for the finish.
#2026-07-15T10:00
4 comments:
PS I assume that the advice to buy a return to Seaford also applies to this route (Bishopstone and Seaford tickets are the same price) but be prepared to pay for a Lewes to Glynde ticket on the train if asked - this has happened to me although the website says Seaford tickets are “accepted in practice”
A late train meant that we missed the connection to Glynde, so we decided to catch the train to Seaford, and do the bottom loop of the Seaford circular, which took us along the coast path to Cuckmere where we turned inland for a mile or two, before turning southwest back towards Bishopstone, about 9 miles in all. It was a hot and sunny day, and we all enjoyed views of the Seven Sisters looming over a turquoise sea. The inland section was a nice mix of shady lanes and open fields, with butterflies fluttering about. The blackberry season has also started! Most stopped at the cafe in Bishopstone and several swam before jumping on the train home. I didn't count but estimate #15.
Many thanks Boonster, I counted #16 - someone said 17 but I can't think who the elusive 17th walker was. I also met three semi-regulars at Clapham Junction who were going to Eastbourne to walk the seven sisters east to west. Hope they had a good day.
Most seemed to agree the Seaford start was an acceptable alternative to Plan A. The "back group" trying not to overheat took advantage of some shady spots to stop, got to the beach just as others were emerging from the surprisingly calm sea, had a swim and drink and got the 1727 train. #hot-and-sunny-with-a-breeze.
They did, we met them on Lewes Station on the way back.
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