Midhurst Footpath Companions
Walking in Sussex, Hampshire and Surrey.

East Dean walk on 26th April 2023

We had a dry morning for our walk led by Jay, starting out from East Dean. We headed south for Monarch's Way, up a steep path in a field, which needed a few stops to allegedly admire the view. The path took us between Eastdean Park and Chalton Park up to the Counter's Gate and at this point we turned away from the Monarch's Way to take the Chalk Road down to Chalton. This route passes close to the Goodwood Racecourse, where horse racing has taken place annually since 1801. On the way down we found the perfect coffee stop with a seat and a glorious view over towards the South Downs ridge (perfect is a slight exaggeration, there was only one bench!). When we neared Chalton, we passed Fox Hall, used by the Duke of Monmouth as a fox hunting Lodge in 1680. Local surviving foxes were probably relieved to hear he had been beheaded only five years later. After walking through the village we turned up the West Sussex Literary Trail (North Lane) beside Levins Down and up another hill, again providing great views and the opportunity to re-oxygenate! Once in Wood Lea wood we left the Literary Trail to head back towards East Dean and the welcoming Star and Garter where we had lunch.

All ready for the off

Comparing notes on breathlessness

No, we're not breathless

Heading down Chalk Road

Coffee stop

Some of us didn't even need a seat!

The wonderful rolling countryside to enjoy

Violets hiding in the woods

Bluebells in North Lane

The Trundle at Goodwood almost visible in the distance

Cowslips are back again!

Back in the village, passing the Village Hall

Plenty of rosemary - where's the lamb?

Star and Garter in the typical Sussex flint and brick

Walkers at rest!

About 5 miles

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