Coast and Country Walking Festival in Eastbourne and Wealden runs from 26 September through to 4 October and is aimed at walkers of varying ages, abilities and even interests, so you're sure to find a walk which is right for you.
Although one of the main aims of the walks is to get people active, energized, fit and healthy, the festival is also the perfect way to take in the outstanding natural beauty of the South Downs surrounding Eastbourne and other areas of Sussex. Some walks are free and some have a cost, but most walks have a maximum number of walkers, so be sure to book a place to avoid disappointment!
This is a 15 mile all day walk, starting from Bedes School on Dukes Drive, Eastbourne and ending at the Plough and Harrow in Litlington. Enjoy this scenic downland walk led by an experienced guide to East Dean where you'll stop and visit the first of two breweries, Beachy Head Brewery. Discover the brewing methods adopted by Head Brewer, Roger Green and enjoy the tutored tasting whilst learning the history of the brewery. Continue the walk over to Litlington where you'll stop for lunch at the Plough and Harrow before commencing on the second tour and tasting at the Long Man Brewery! A great value walk at just £15 per person; there are 30 spaces so book your place if you have a passion for real ale and brisk country walks!
A short but brisk walk, this session will teach keen learners a fitness walking discipline which can burn over 35% more calories than easy walking and also aids muscle tone. Oakleafe Sussex Nordic Walking offers a 5-mile circular Nordic Taster from the Forestry Commission car park for Abbots Wood by Wilbees Road/Caneheath through Arlington. The taster session, led by International Nordic Walking Association accredited Nordic Walk instructor, Nigel Bentley, is a circular route which explores the forest rides, lake and higher ground to the north, ascending 225 feet along the way. Nordic Walk poles are available for loan and completion of a fitness assessment form is required prior to participation. This is a 5 mile walk, with a maximum of 15 participants, free of charge but donations are welcome.
If capturing some natural beauty on your camera is what makes you happy, book a place on this gentle walk along the Cuckoo Trail, starting in Hailsham. You don't need to be an expert, just someone with a desire to walk and photograph. A professional photographer will be on hand to accompany the group and you'll even have the chance to download your snaps at the end of the walk, onto PC's provided, and have a short lesson on editing your images using photo editing software. This walk is free of charge, but hurry to book your place as there's a maximum of 16 walkers.
For all the details of the Coast and Country Walking Festival go to sussexwalkingfestival.org.uk or visit the Eastbourne Tourist Information Centre to pick up your complete 36 page guide to the walking festival with a full list of all walks across the nine days. You can also book a place on a walk by calling 01892 602757. Dogs on leads are allowed on most walks, children are welcome too provided under 16's are accompanied by an adult!
