🍂 FREE HIKE – Hidden Sussex: Wiggonholt, River Arun & South Downs Views

Discover a quieter and lesser-known side of Sussex on this beautiful 13-mile autumn hike from Pulborough, where peaceful countryside hides almost 2,000 years of history.

Our circular route will take us through the Arun Valley, Wiggonholt and Greatham, combining riverside paths, woodland, open countryside and sweeping views towards the South Downs with some fascinating historic places along the way.
We’ll visit the tiny and peaceful Wiggonholt Church, whose origins are thought to date back to around 1100, and cross Greatham Bridge, an historic crossing of the River Arun associated with fighting during the English Civil War. Our journey begins and ends at Pulborough, a settlement recorded in the Domesday Book under the name Poleberge, and close to the route of the Roman Stane Street.

Along the way we’ll follow sections around the River Arun, explore Wiggonholt Common, pass an interesting Second World War gun emplacement, enjoy several countryside viewpoints and eventually return through Pulborough and St Mary’s Church.
And with autumn settling over the countryside, expect changing colours, fallen leaves, riverside scenery and the South Downs forming a beautiful backdrop. 🍂🌳

This should be a lovely mixture of walking, scenery, history and discovering some of the quieter corners of the Sussex countryside — and hopefully a few places you didn't even know were there. 🥾🌄

🥾 Hike Details

📍 Start & Finish: Meet outside Pulborough Station at 10:15 am for a sharp 10:30 am start.
🥾 Distance: Approx. 13 miles
⛰️ Total ascent: Approx. 300 metres
🚶 Pace: Steady medium
🔄 Route: Circular
🌳 Terrain: Countryside paths, woodland, riverside sections, tracks and some hills/inclines
There will be regular short breaks for regrouping, photographs, water and lunch.

🌄 Route Highlights

Pulborough • South Downs views • WWII gun emplacement • Greatham Bridge • River Arun • Wiggonholt Common • Wiggonholt Church • St Mary’s Church
This isn't an extreme hike in terms of elevation, but at around 13 miles it should still provide a good day's hiking and a satisfying autumn countryside adventure.

🚶 Group Walking Rule

Please stay with or behind the hike leader and do not walk ahead. The hike leader leads from the front. This helps keep the group together, supports group cohesion and reduces the risk of people becoming separated or taking the wrong route.
Please respect the rules and etiquette of the group and be considerate and supportive towards fellow participants.
Signing up for our Meetup events is compulsory. No sign-up = no participation.

🎒 What to Bring

🥾 Good hiking boots or sturdy footwear
🥪 Packed lunch and snacks
💧 At least 2 litres of water
🌧️ Waterproofs
🧥 Suitable layers for the weather
🔦 Torch or headtorch – advisable during the autumn months as daylight can disappear quickly.

Everyone participates voluntarily and is responsible for assessing their own fitness and ability, and for their own safety, equipment, clothing, belongings and personal decisions. Hiking involves inherent outdoor risks which participants should consider before taking part.

This is a free and voluntary group activity. Please note that no risk or service is inferred or accepted by the organiser.

As always, expect a good mixture of walking, countryside, views, conversation and hopefully plenty of laughs along the way. 😄🥾🍂

If any issues 📱 WhatsApp: 07830 374 629.