South Downs Sunday
We were heading to start our walk at Ditchling Beacon. It's a very popular trail and being a glorious Sunday and with our late start, we figured the parking would be full. We found a little place to park at the bottom of the hill. A good starting point for a steep climb up the grassy banks, quickly reaching the breathtaking views.
(Ditchling Beacon is one of the highest points in East Sussex and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the South Downs National Park.)
Once we reached the top, we we joined the chalky path and headed along towards Devil's Dyke. Gradually on our left the sea, Brighton and the windfarms came into view. And to our right we could look down on the village of Ditchling.
We passed through fields of sheep, cows and horses (Basil tightly on the lead). The views were stunning the whole way along, and with the autumn light and clear sky we were spoilt for choice for snack stops.
As we neared the Dyke, we realised we were running out of day light, so found a loop round to take us back to the car. After passing the windmills and walking through farm yards (on the footpath), over motorway bridges and finding ourselves on an A road for a very small stretch, we finally arrived back on the top of the ridge before the steep walk down to the car park as it was getting dark.
A 15km loop on the South Downs Way and the Sussex Boarder Path. Far reaching views, interesting diversions and a few snack stops. All in all a very satisfying Sunday.
