Berwick to Glynde (3 Churches walk) 5 Jul

NB – no recce has been carried out for various reasons – please bear this in mind.

Trains:  Victoria 08.24, change Lewes, change Polegate, arr Berwick 10.09. Buy a return ticket to Berwick.

From London Victoria please sit at the back of the 5th carriage from the rear of the train.  This is so we can take the staircase before the crowd surges, which can become something of a stampede, and reach the ladies loo to avoid  having to wait in a long queue.  Possibility to stock up on provisions at Lewes station cafe.  Please bring plenty of water.

The Walk: Approx 10 miles. Two of the churches which we will visit are part of the Cuckmere Pilgrim Path (seven churches in total).  Selmeston Church – stained glass (modern and Victorian). Alciston Church – the church is closed for internal works but, by special arrangement, we may be permitted to enter to ring the Pilgrim Bell (to be confirmed late Sat morning). There is a big climb up to South Downs for short walk and views, then descend to Firle Church – John Piper stained glass – Tree of Life. Return through fields and by road to Glynde

Special request Please bring spare change for purchase of greeting cards and post cards, and for the opportunity to ring the Pilgrim Bell.

Lunch:  Firle. Picnic lunch in churchyard. Ram Inn for refreshments

No drop out points unless by taxi.  There is a bus stop near the main road at Firle, but I have never once seen a bus stop there in all the years we have walked in this area.  

Hazards: Very, very busy road to cross between Selmeston and Alciston.  It would be best if we all cross as a unit, so please stay close to the group as we approach the road.

There may be horses in one field in the morning and possibly cows in another field in the afternoon.  Again, best if we all cross together as a herd rather than getting strung out. 

We might just miss an hourly train from Glynde if we do not time our return properly. 

Return train times from Glynde – 15 mins past the hour – quick change at Lewes to the London Victoria train

Leader: Patricia (any queries to walks@morleyramblers.uk)