Wealdway: Blackboys to Horsebridge

The Wealdway spans chalk downlands, river valleys and wooded farmland in often remote country on its way from Gravesend to Eastbourne. It crosses the centre of the overcrowded southeastern corner of England, but the chosen route manages, for almost its entire length, to avoid main centres of population. This particular forges over some gentle bumps too small to be considered proper hills on its way from tiny village to tiny village until it comes to a juddering halt at the northern extremity of Hailsham.

The Wealdway uses the B2102 road for a few yards only before cutting through to the next lane. From the start of the path at grid ref. TQ516204, the South Downs come into view for the first time since the Wealdway descended the southern slopes of Ashdown Forest. The route soon passes through the elaborately landscaped area surrounding Newplace. Here, in sharp contrast to Tickerage, the track is open and unfenced and there are no unfriendly notices. From a large pond, a stream drops down a
series of artificial cascades. It is a delightful sight, particularly in the spring when the surrounding area is a mass of daffodils.

The next 3 miles (5km) to East Hoathly are well way marked and present few problems apart from the possibility of obstruction by growing crops. Access to the footbridge in a wooded dip at grid ref. TQ 523 183 is not obvious and, in the field beyond, the Wealdway makes a curious dog-leg turn beside a solitary tree before climbing across a large field. This was once part of Great Wood but it was clear-felled a few years ago, except for the very top. Cross two unwaymarked stiles to enter a wood near an electricity pylon.

At the other side of the wood, a wide downland panorama suddenly opens up ahead, now encouragingly nearer. The Wealdway arrives at East Hoathly through the churchyard, within a few yards of two pubs and a bus stop for buses back to Uckfield, or on to Horsebridge. (Check times in advance.)

Between East Hoathly and Chiddingly, another 2 miles (3.2km) on, the route, for the most part, follows a designated bridleway and is therefore gated rather than stiled. It is clear and well marked, but may be muddy underfoot in places as this is an area of thick and sticky Wealden clay.

Chiddingly is a quiet and charming spot. On the way into the village, look out for the remains of Chiddingly Place, now incorporated into a farm building, to the right of the lane. Beyond the Six Bells pub, there is a small car park.

From Chiddingly to the A267, the Wealdway is, once again, well waymarked, though do make sure to take the left of the two paths waymarked across a field after Chiddingly church. The route heads generally eastwards across a gently undulating landscape, with frequent glimpses of the South
Downs escarpment. From the point where the route crosses the road at Gun Hill, the Gun Inn is a few minutes’ walk to the north along the lane.

Approaching the A267, the route descends through a lovely patch of woodland and climbs between high banks. After another dip, the path is a bit vague as it crosses an area of rough ground and the stile and steps giving access to the loop of old road at Lealands are well hidden.

A quiet lane leads to Hellingly, where the Wealdway passes diagonally through the churchyard, attractively lined by a row of tile-hung cottages. Follow the road over the Cuckmere River. The Wealdway bears right across a meadow to Horselunges Manor. It is possible to obtain a reasonably close look at this magnificent 16th-century timber house, complete with its impressive moat and drawbridge. Beyond the manor, skirt to the left of a row of garages. Another 0.75 miles (1.2km) brings you out to the A271 through the entrance to Horsebridge Mill.