Length: 20.5 km (10.7 miles) 7/10
I've wanted to do this walk for a while; it takes in the South Downs, Wilmington Long Man - one of only two "human" chalk figures in England - a couple of interesting villages and maybe even a swim at the end. It's also a neat continuation for anyone doing the Lewes to Berwick walk on the 25th.
Travel: 0954 from Victoria (Clapham Junction 1001, East Croydon 1010), changing at Lewes for the 1114 arriving Berwick 1125. Returns from Eastbourne at 05 (NOTE THERE IS ONLY AN HOURLY SERVICE OWING TO THE ASLEF OVERTIME BAN BUT THE OUTBOUND TRAINS LOOK TO BE RUNNING OK). Change at Haywards Heath for London Bridge. Get a return to Eastbourne.
Lunch and tea: The pub in Wilmington is sadly closed SEE MG'S COMMENT BELOW. A late pub option is the Eight Bells High Street, Jevington, BN26 5QB (01323 484442). This is 10.8 km into the walk - about half way - but it seems to be taking lunch bookings till 2.45 so you should be fine. If anyone is ready for a tea stop by then, the pleasant Jevington Tea Garden (01323 489692; with some inside tables) is 200 metres up the road from the Eight Bells. In Eastbourne, Qualisea Fish Restaurant (189 Terminus Road Eastbourne BN21 3DH (01323 725203) is recommended for those ready for a post-walk meal; there are plenty of pubs including the Eagle, 57 South Street (01323 417799) which has a nice roof garden.
Shortening the walk: the best way to shorten the walk is to catch the 12/12A bus from the A259 to Eastbourne station, saving 4.3 km. The directions also describe a short walk following the main route to Folkington and then heading to nearby Polegate - 11.6 km altogether.
For walk directions, map and GPX click here
T=2.27