10 of us met as planned in Steyning car park and for a moment it looked like a pre Crufts convention rather than an alternative HJs event! On time we set off, leaving Steyning by the quiet lanes before making the steep ascent up the Downs. But boy do the views make it worthwhile! The fact that most were still able to talk must be testament that we are fitter than perhaps we feel?!
We joined the South Downs Way and after approx 4.5 miles of walking, took a wooded path leading down to Washington, where we met up with another 7 of us at The Frankland Arms in Washington for a quick drink. On moving on the 5 cyclists then braved the steep South Downs Way climb from the Washington car park, while the walkers continued on the lower path, via one unplanned field, where Liz’s gallant husband helped people and animals over a wire fence! After 3.5 miles of beautiful scenery at the foot of the Downs, going past Wiston House, we entered Steyning via Mouse Lane. Thankfully for Liz and I, there was a unanimous agreement that the walk / route had been thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Once at The Star Inn, Steyning we seemed to continue with HJs current form with pubs! Ok, we were later arriving than Liz and I had calculated (having walked it the previous week), but we were horrified to discover that the cyclists had been told on arrival that they were unaware of us coming! This was despite Liz and I discussing our event with the landlady in person and confirming by email!! There was 1 lad working the bar, (far from ideal when we were all thirsty!) and the wait for food was an hour initially. Note – we won’t be frequenting there again! Anyway, the sun was shining and 19 of us enjoyed relaxing for a couple of hours in the beer garden!
Thanks by many have been received and Liz and I feel that despite the pub not meeting expectation, the day was a resounding success! Hopefully the storyboard of photos reflects this! For all the photos’s, courtesy of Gill and Sue, go to the Gallery here!
Fabulous day! Thanks to Gill and Liz for all their organisation and leading the walk. What great social sec they are!