Centurion Way – The GBTQ Hike You Didn’t Know You Needed

Darling, it’s time to dust off those walking boots and become Centurions for the Day! Yes – you heard right. We’re marching north from Chichester like a pack of well-dressed Romans, only with better hair and more opinions about interior design.

(This walk was conceived and written by Anton Thompson whose assessment event for the status of Lowland and Hill Walk Leader it will be. Your support for Anton is sought.)

The Journey

• We begin at Chichester Train Station, assemble the troops, and sweep past the majestic Chichester Cathedral– perfect for a group selfie, with the flag of course!
• Then comes the real treat – we’ll get a cheeky glimpse at my local Brandy Hole (yes, you heard me – bring your camera). It’s a Copse, so don’t get too excited.
• We swish our way along the Centurion Way, channelling strong centurion energy.
• West Dean Café is our halfway haven. Grab a flat white, a wedge of cake, or whip out your lunch box – ow, behave! and bask in the countryside glory.
• After lunch, we strut onto the brand-new extension (opened Aug 2025!) of this old railway line – because why walk the old section when you can walk the new.
• At last, we arrive in Singleton (yes, it’s called that – singletons welcome, couples tolerated with mild side-eye).
• Then we’ll indulge in libations at the local public house before we sashay to the Stagecoach bus stop and ride back into Chichester like the fabulous warriors we are.

Why You’ll Love It

• Gorgeous Sussex scenery, woodland, and countryside views.
• Camp commentary & quality banter all the way.
• A new section of Centurion Way to christen with our fabulous presence.
• Pub at the end (because priorities).

What to Bring

• Walking boots or walking shoes.
• Weather-proof layers (Sussex weather can be dramatic, just like me).
• Snacks or packed lunch if you’re not into café chic.
• Water, bus fare, and your most dazzling personality.

Spots are limited, so RSVP before we leave without you.

(Picture credits: View towards Singleton from The Trundle: Photo © David Martin (cc-by-sa/2.0); Bishop's Palace, Chichester: Photo © David Kemp (cc-by-sa/2.0); Chichester Cathedral: Photo © David Martin (cc-by-sa/2.0); Path and wall on edge of Westside Plantation: Photo © David Martin (cc-by-sa/2.0); Singleton Church: Photo © Chris Thomas-Atkin (cc-by-sa/2.0). All images are copyrighted but are licensed for reuse under Creative Commons CC-BY-SA/2.0. Other pictures were taken by OutdoorLads member Gavin Blackman in March 2024.)