Well, what a great day for a walk. Had planned this walk for last weekend,
but a belated birthday party Saturday evening put paid to any walking on
Sunday.
So, bright and fresh this morning, Clare and I left Denmead at 0930 and
drove to West Sussex, bypassing Chichester, and north to Eartham Wood car
park. Large popular walking area for families, plus it gives easy access
for circular walks along sections of the South Downs Way.
We had the odd little shower on the drive to Eartham Wood, but it stopped as
we reached the car park. What luck. It was then a mixture of blue sky and
clouds during the walk ......... with a little drizzle just as we got back
to the car. Couldn't have timed it better!
The walk took us north through Eartham Wood for about a mile, before we
turned right (northeast) and made our way up to Burton Down and the South
Downs Way (SDW). Bit muddy underfoot, but great walking weather. Started
west along the South Downs Way over Sutton Down, then stopped for a chat
with three rather muddy guys on mountain bikes. They were cycling the full
length (west to east) of the South Downs Way.
After our chat, Clare and I continued west to meet the A285 Petworth road
....... and saw our first group of Deer in fields to the north as we
approached the road. Crossed the road, still on the SDW, then did a little
circuit north on footpaths back to the main road at Dogkennel Cottages.
(Always try to avoid road-walking if we can.) Crossing back over the road,
we rejoined a wide muddy track just up from Dogkennel Cottages, and
continued back to the east of Farm Hill up to the SDW near Bignor Hill car
park. (We saw our second group of Deer along this track) Now, although we
had seen the two groups of Deer a little earlier, we were really excited
when we saw about 12 resting in the sun in the field south of Farm Hill.
They obviously heard us, but remained lying and watching us. As we started
our way up to Bignor Hill car park, the Deer started to run across the field
..... but, not together. They ran in pairs, but the second pair didn't start
until pair in front had reaches the fence. Safety in mind, no doubt.
Once near the Bignor Hill car park, we turning southwest, and set off down
the long-and-straight old Roman Road of Stane Street (also the Monarch's
Way). Pleasant walk down open fields, although there was a short diversion
near Gumber Farm. Eventually, we re-entered Eartham Wood, and about a mile
later were back at the car park.
Brilliant outing ....... couldn't think of a better way to spend a Saturday.
Distance 10 miles
Highest point - 764ft
Total ascent 1312ft.
Photographs - 110
Some photos from along the route at the web address in the sig.
--
sandy saunders @ www.thewalkzone.co.uk
'Mountains or Mole Hills ... summiting still
brings the same excitement'