Arundel Long walk on 8th September 2023

The 14 mile long walk led by Paul started near Houghton on what promised to be one of the hottest days of the year. Even with an earlier start than normal, the heat and humidity was already making its presence felt. We started on the South Downs Way, crossing the River Arun, fields and the railway line north of Amberley and rising back up onto the Downs with the heat reflecting off the chalk paths. At Rackham Banks we left the South Downs Way heading south dropping down past herds of sheep and Belted Galloway Cattle across Wepham Down to walk beside the Gallops on a wide mown grassy path. Despite the heat, Tenantry Copse jutted close to the path to offer shade for a coffee break although the grass was still dewy in the shade. The banter continued unabated as we turned onto Monarchs Way heading to Warningcamp and pedestrian crossing of the railway line. Clambering up the south bank of the River Arun we followed it round to Arundel with the castle and the cathedral on the horizon. At the 10 mile mark we detoured into The Norfolk Arms for shade, fluids and sustenance, not necessarily in that order of desire. A gentle climb took us into Arundel Park, around the Hiorne Tower, built by Francis Hiorne as he bid for the contract to rebuild the castle in 1797. The views over Mill Hanger were excellent before we dropped into the valley and up the opposite side enabling us to exercise our shepherding skills. The steep descent into South Wood brought us back to banks of the River Arun and onto the final leg up to Houghton and back to our starting point.