T=2.25 Length: 16.9km (10.4 miles) or 18.8 km (11.7 miles) with extension.
The proposed walk is an option from the Lewes via West Firle circular walk finishing in Southease. There is an optional extension to Charleston Farmhouse, climbing to the South Downs Way from there to rejoin the published route to Southease.
Difficulty: 6 out of 10
Trains: Catch the 9.54 Ore train from London Victoria (Clapham Junction 10.01 , East Croydon 10.10 ), arriving Lewes 10.56 .
Return trains from Southease are at 15.05, 16.06, 17.06, 18.07. Change at Lewes for trains to Victoria. Change again at Hayward’s Heath if going to London Bridge.
Buy a day return to Southease unless you plan to finish somewhere else.
The walk starts in the historic town of Lewes with the early section having fine views over the town and castle. The section along the South Downs Way offers extensive views both inland and towards the port of Newhaven with the Channel beyond.
The extension to Charleston Farmhouse offers a chance to take a guided tour of the farmhouse (see website) or visit the café there. From there, carry on eastward for approximately 200 meters to Tilton farm on your right. There is a wooded path to the left of the farm buildings which leads up onto the South Downs Way. Turn right on the SDW and follow it past Firle Beacon, soon rejoining the published route to Southease.
Lunch : The suggested lunch pub is the Ram Inn (tel 01273 858222) in Firle. The cafe at Charleston also has some lunch options as well as tea and cakes. Picnic in Firle or at Charleston.
Tea : The YHA cafe at Southease or the station cafe at Lewes.
L=2.25