The London-based hiking group for people in their 20s - 30s.
James A.
Ready to level up? This is the second challenge in our five Mountain Fitness walk series, designed to build endurance, strength, and speed. Each walk in the series gets longer, steeper, and faster — this one is no exception!
We begin in the charming villages of Hassocks and Ditchling before heading straight into the heart of the South Downs. Our first major climb? The legendary Ditchling Beacon, the highest point in East Sussex. From here, expect breathtaking ridge-top views stretching across the Weald, the shimmering coastline, and — on a clear day — the distant Isle of Wight.
But the challenge doesn’t stop there! The Devil’s Eight earns its name as we take on multiple steep ascents and descents throughout the day, racking up a total of 842m of elevation gain. As we weave through rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and windswept ridges, we’ll also pass prehistoric landmarks, grazing sheep, and perhaps even a soaring peregrine falcon hunting along the escarpment.
🔹 What to Bring: A packed lunch, plenty of water, and sturdy walking boots.
🍺 Pub Stop: Midway break for drinks only. Optional celebratory pub stop at the end for food and drinks.
As with all our strenuous walks, this isn’t suited for first-timers. But if you tackled the first walk and want something longer, steeper, and faster—this is the one to test your limits.
Are you up for the challenge? Let’s conquer those hills! 🚶♂️🏔️
Terrain: Steep hills, farms, muddy paths, chalk downs
Travel: Take 09:16 from London Victoria (09:23 Clapham Junction, 09:34 East Croydon), arr. Hassocks 10:13. Alternatively take 09:05 from London Bridge (09:19 East Croydon) arr. Hassocks 10:02.
Meeting point: Hassocks Station. Meet outside the station, on the side of the tracks closest to pub “The Hassocks” and the high street.
Image credit: Photo of "Devils Dyke view" by Berit Watkin | CC-BY | https://www.flickr.com/photos/ben124/6726996259/
Hassocks Station
