Shackleford Walk on 22nd November 2023

With a glorious sunrise for the early risers, things could only go downhill for the walk start. Tim and Jane's walk started from the Old Cyder House in Shackleford, but the pub car park had a chain across it, which made parking difficult. However we eventually found spots to squeeze into and we set off for the walk. Opposite the pub are the splendid grounds of Aldro School, for day pupils and boarders. It originated in Eastbourne in 1877 but moved to Shackleford in 1940, felt to be a safer spot at the time. Crossing some fields we passed Lydling Farm before we had to tackle the water hazard. Fortunately not too bad on the day, we all managed to cross this River Wey tributary without getting wet feet. After a special exercise walking up steep steps and back down again, we found the right path to take us to the magnificent Rodsall Manor, purchased for £2M in 2000. Since then it has been the correspondence address for a number of Investment Companies and Banks. From there we walked towards Cuttmill Ponds and stopped for a coffee stop in the woods, just before some houses. One of these had some beautiful ironwork gates, designed by the owner, who also is a world-renowned car designer. Cuttmill pond was just around the corner, with plenty of life both above and below the surface, including a solitary heron. From there we headed for the village of Gatwick (not that one....) and then into Mitchen Hall Woods to eventually get back for lunch at The Cyder House. Luckily there was no chain across the entrance this time. The walk was a bit less than 5 miles.