After having to abort a walk yesterday because of rather windy and wet conditions, I thought I would try again today as the weather forecast didn’t predict any further rain. This yet again involved a train ride in getting to the start of the walk, as there are no direct trains to Southease it meant into Brighton and onto another train along the coast.

Arriving at Southease I joined the South Downs Way for a few hundred yards, crossing the swing bridge before turning onto the path that follows the course of the river into the historic town of Lewes in East Sussex. There is a path on either side of the river but I chose the west side of the river, the reason being when I arrive at Lewes it would be nearer to the station.

The swing bridge, as far as I know, hasn’t been opened for many years, probably because no large boats travel up the river anymore.

This is a tidal river flowing out through the port of Newhaven in East Sussex into the Channel. During the time that I walked the tide was going out and you could see how strong the current was, probably the reason for all the signs along the river about no swimming, not that I felt the need.

I encountered quite a bit of farm and wild animals along the route including these cows who decided they wanted to rest across the footpath, who am I to argue with such a large animal.

The rest of the animals were made up of Swans, Black Headed Gulls, Herring Gulls, Egrets, Goldfinches, Sparrows several species of Crows, Bees, a caterpillar and Sheep that were grazing on the rich marsh grass on the other side of the river.

Further along the river, we can see in the distance Lewes Downs (Mount Caburn) National Nature Reserve, it is from here that you can see most weekends people hang gliding, not a sport that I think I would be brave enough to attempt, but never the less very spectacular.

It is at this point that the river splits off into another tributary that goes off toward Glynde and beyond. As the tributary was on the other side of the river I continued toward the historic town of Lewes, that can be seen for the first time in the image below.

As I continue along the path the first structure that I passed under was the road bridge for the A27 dual carriageway, you certainly know you are nearing the town as the noise levels of the traffic drown the birds and the peace and tranquility of flowing water.

The next bridge to pass under is the railway line that runs out to Eastbourne in the east or south towards Seaford.

I have now reached the town as can be seen from the houses that are along the banks of the river. The one with the brown top to it is an award winning construction, that featured on Channel 4’s Grand Designs. The upper floor and roof are made of steel that has been allowed to corrode. I think it was recently marketed for sale with a price of nearly £2 million.

Finally at the end of the path for me although it does continue for many more miles, so a quick look around the town before heading back to the station and home.

The war memorial at the top of School Hill to honour the fallen soldiers of the two world wars is now a listed building.

Further on up the high street and turning right I walked up to Lewes Castle, it stands at the highest point built on a raised bed of chalk. This 1000-year-old castle offers some stunning views across the county of Sussex.

That is it for today, not a very long walk just under 4 miles, but a pleasant walk all the same.

Equipment used:

• Sony RX100 MkII
• Hoya Polariser 49mm
• Lensmate Filter Adapter 49mm

This is a map of the location of the walk.

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