The BWs walk the South Downs Way, Part 5: Amberley to Upper Beeding (BOOKING REQUIRED)

Walk details

Leaving the station, we will get the biggest climb of the day out straight right at the beginning at Amberley with the two-mile long ascent of Rackham Hill. The start is beside the River Arun so is barely above sea level and ascends over 550 feet at an average gradient of almost 5 per cent.

The route follows the crest of the South Downs Ridge with good views in both directions. It passes Chanctonbury Ring, a ring of beech trees planted on the remains of a prehistoric Hill Fort. This spot has beautiful 360° views which is an ideal picnic spot.

The route is almost entirely over a chalk ridge, with good views. It is very exposed in bad or windy weather though. At the halfway point, there is a break in the ridge, where the route crosses the busy A24 dual carriageway.

We will drop off the ridge to finish in Upper Beeding where we can have a drink at The King's Head pub.

Travel details

By public transport

Outbound:

Get the 07:54 (early!) train from Reading, change at Gatwick Airport at 09:25 and then take the 09:39 train to Amberley, (arriv. 10:29)

Return: You may wish to extend your stay overnight locally to take part in the walk on Sunday for Part 6 of the walk series. This is what the Walk Leader will be doing. There is a Youth Hostel near the end of the walk as well as B&Bs and campsites.

Upper Beeding has a regular bus to nearby Shoreham-on-Sea, where you can take the train back. There is a train at 17:42, change at Gatwick at 18:23 and take the 18:59 train to Reading (arriv. 20:27).

By car

Park at Amberley Train Station, car parking charges may apply. As this is a linear walk, you will need to make your way back to the start point by bus and train or taxi.

Alternatively, part near the end point in Upper Beeding or nearby Shoreham-on-Sea and make your way by public transport to the start point.

Notes

• Please bring a packed lunch and a drink.
• It might be muddy – please wear suitable footwear.
• Please feel free to contact the leader with queries about the walk, or if you are delayed on the day.

Booking details

• This walk is limited to 26 walkers including the walk leader
• Do not turn up for the walk without booking, else we will have to turn you away.
• Book a place on this walk via Meetup (see Website link).
• Please see our group website for more information: https://www.berkshirewalkers.co.uk/