Haslemere and Blackdown hike
24 people attending
6 places left
Explore hidden tracks and the highest point of the South Downs with Matt, Justin and the outdoorlads.
This will be a varied walk taking in woodland, heathland and grassy meadows. We leave the walk start point and soon pass through a National Trust smallholding close to Haslemere High Street. We then follow the Serpent Trail to reach Black Down, which is the highest point of the South Downs National Park at 280 metres above sea level. This will provide the lunch stop with fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
We'll descend to Fernhurst village at which point there may be opportunity for a swift half at the local pub - time permitting and at the discretion of the walk leader. The last few miles take us through wooded tracks and paths, and finally back through a different part of the National Trust farm to return to the walk start.
For those with time and a thirst for beer, it is likely we will make a farewell visit to the pub at the end of the walk.
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Food & drink
Bring a packed lunch, and plenty of snacks and water.