Cooksbridge to Hassocks Walk

Saturday, 4 June 2022 08:00

By Robert Veitch

With street parties all the rage this jubilee season, we sent our own magnificent seven out for a walk this month, under the tutelage of resident rambler, Robert Veitch. Have your own street party we suggested, and in their own way they did, and they did it in style

At 24m (78 feet) above sea level the start point is the low point of the day, which must mean it’s all uphill from here… though it’s barely noticeable!

From the black fingerpost behind platform 1, beside the level crossing, follow the narrow path through the lush undergrowth to the step stile. Once over it, stride out diagonally towards the ladder stile across the field and Beechwood Lane beyond. Turn right and follow the tarmac for ¾ of a mile to where the road turns 90° right.

10m beyond the bend, scramble through the gap in the hedge on the left and into the field. Turn right and follow the path diagonally between the chicken wire and stock proof fence, into the trees and adjacent field. Emerging into a sea of broad beans, the path continues uphill past the fingerpost to the stump just beyond. Turn left and follow the field boundary to the far end.

Faced with two paths into the trees, take the left option and continue alongside the high stock proof fencing, dipping downhill, past a gate and ancient oak, before ascending to the junction with the grassy track. Turn left and after 60m, bear right, through the gap in the hedge, through the scrub, up five steps and into a field of seedlings.

Bear right and follow the field boundary downhill towards the track and into the adjacent field. On the left is a ‘peculiar oak’ with “dead branches reaching up towards the heavens,” remarked Gill. Follow the field periphery all the way to the ladder stile, then once over the other side, turn right, and after 10m, turn left and cross the 3-sleeper bridge.

The path leads diagonally across a meadow of buttercups to a kissing gate. Ramble across the next field towards the three oaks and distant step stile. Beyond this, turn left, and wander along the concrete drive, over the cattle grid, then all the way to the junction with Novington Lane.

Beside the red postbox is a ladder stile. Once over this, aim diagonally right, walking downhill towards the ladder stile that precedes the junction with Chapel Lane.

Turn left, and follow the curve of the road, past the pub, for 300m before turning right at East Chiltington Parish Church. The track eases downhill and over a stream, then continues through the beech trees, passing the 3-way fingerpost on the way to the junction with Plumpton Lane.

Cross the road with care and enjoy the easy walking atop the tarmac as the route continues west, past the racecourse and another 3-way fingerpost. Tarmac evolves into track and the route continues west, past Philip and Foye Ridley’s bench and the Plumpton Cross notice board opposite, where there are glorious views to the south. Eagle eyed Callum pointed out the Queen Victoria Golden Jubilee ‘V’ plantation. “There are 3,000 trees there, they were planted in 1887,” he remarked with a self-satisfied smile, “including Scots pine, spruce, larch, sycamore, lime and beech.”

Continue west to junction with Streat Lane. “You don’t need a jubilee for a Streat party here,” chirped Ruby with a grin. Turn left, and then after 25m, veer right at the retro red telephone box and follow the track past Streat Parish Church, pausing as Adele and Sara did, to try and spot the birdbath shaped memorial in the graveyard.

After another 400m is the junction with tarmac drive. Turn left, then 100m later turn right, and follow the drive for ¾ of a mile, through the fields, to the junction with Spatham Lane.

Cross over and climb the flight of steps beside the period fingerpost from yesteryear. The path continues between the bank and the rhododendrons and at 69m (227 feet) it’s a rather inauspicious high point of the day. Emerging across the cut grass of the recreation ground, continue over the footbridge towards the fingerpost and then the yellow gate, which leads into Farm Lane.

Cross to the gravel path opposite, then once through two kissing gates, keep going to the junction with Lewes Road. Turn right and follow the brick pavement, over the mini roundabout and past St. Margaret’s Church, before turning right into Lodge Hill Lane.

Amble past the pond and Boddington’s Lane, following the road around the 90° left turn, before utilising the very civilised ladder stile on the left to enter the field. Continue, between the lines of stock proof fencing across two fields to the 3-sleeper bridge and kissing gate, before walking across the fence free third field, all the way to the kissing gate.

Cross over to Grand Avenue with care and follow the crescent of the road for ½ a mile to the junction with Keymer Road in downtown Hassocks. Turn right and from here, it’s little more than a hop, skip and a jump up to Hassocks railway station. “I’ll be home in time for tea and cake,” said Stephen with a gleeful smile, “what a lovely walk to do with friends.”

Distance: 7 miles
Walk Time: 3 - 3¼ hours
Stiles: 7
Kissing Gates: 5
Footwear: Trainers should be fine for all, or almost all of it
Elevation Gain: 81m (267 feet)
Calorie Burn: Approximately 695 kcal
Map: OS Explorer OL11
Parking: Pay parking available at Cooksbridge station (limited spaces) and Hassocks station
Trains: See southernrailway.com for services to and from Cooksbridge and Hassocks

Robert has tested the route personally, making sure it is suitable for walking. However, even he cannot guarantee the effects of the weather, or roadworks, or any other factors outside of his control. If you would like to send your feedback about a local walk, please email editorial@sussexliving.com

More from Downtime

What to Watch in April 2024

Our monthly guide to all the best film and television coming your way in April...
If You Ask Me: The Jobsworth and the Frog

There is a malaise creeping through society whereby authorities and businesses use absurd interpretations of regulations as excuses not to provide services or assistance, writes Flo Whitaker
What to Watch in March 2024

From science-fiction epics to supernatural horrors and family adventures, here's our guide to the best new films and TV shows arriving in March...
If You Ask Me... Politicians need a Translator

With elections, resignations and government enquiries aplenty, 2024 is already proving to be a busy year. In these confusing times, Flo Whitaker offers her interpretation of the most frequently-occurring narratives and themes…
Dark Skies Festival 2024: Where & When to Gaze at the Stars

Embrace the darkness with our guide to all the stargazing opportunities coming to Sussex over the next week…
Be Well, Move Happy: Walking & Silence

In our new series on wellness and movement, Sara Whatley will be diving into two complementary health topics each month. She kicks off with silence and walking
Special Interest Holidays: Try Something Different

A chance to take a break, relax and recharge is one of life’s great pleasures, this month Lisa de Silva looks at combining interests with time out
If You Ask Me... Who needs Television anyway?

The first thing people say when they visit Flo Whitaker’s home is “Where’s the TV?” Unimpressed by television from an early age, Flo still reckons the radio has the best pictures
5 Ways to Cultivate Mindfulness

In the bustling world of 24/7 technology and constant demands on our time, mindfulness is more relevant and necessary than ever. For many, the daily hustle and bustle can become overwhelming. Mindfulness, the art of being present and fully engaged in the moment, offers a respite, enabling us to find calm amidst the chaos.
Love Local Community Campaign

Sussex Living is proud to be launching a campaign to support our High Streets, bring prosperity to businesses and help grow a thriving community.Because if we don’t use them, we will lose them.
Summer Activity Ideas To Entertain You and the Kids

Summer in Sussex offers long, sunny days perfect for making memories with the kids.
Summer School - Part 2

In the second part of our series on summer holiday learning opportunities, Hanna Prince looks at how to keep kids engaged with practical, creative and hands-on activities. Learning needn’t end when the holidays begin. The focus on maths and literacy in schools means that children don’t always get the opportunity to explore other topics – and summer is the perfect time to give their natural interests free reign. Whether you’re nurturing a budding artist, a sports fanatic or the next Bear Grylls, here’s how to broaden their horizons and weave extra-curricular education into your summer routine.
The Ultimate Act of Love: Providing for Your Family's Future with a Will

Making a will is one of the most important things you can do, regardless of your age or financial situation. Unfortunately, many of us put it off, whether it’s because of the morbid topic of our own mortality or because we just don’t know where to start.
Five of the best anti aging facial exercises

Facial exercises are often utilized as an alternative to more invasive treatments for combating the appearance of aging. By strengthening and toning the muscles under the skin, facial exercises can promote a more youthful appearance. Here are five of the best anti-aging facial exercises:
Five Essential Fashion Classics For the Mature Woman

Fashion is an ever-evolving art form, but some styles withstand the test of time, epitomizing timeless elegance and sophistication. For the mature woman, embracing classic fashion styles allows her to exude confidence, grace, and a refined sense of style. In this article, we explore five enduring fashion styles that perfectly complement the mature woman, helping her look and feel her best in any situation.
Get your children involved in litter picking this Summer holidays

Be like the Wombles and become the worlds best litter pickers and recyclers, making good use of bad rubbish, says Sara Whatley
So you think you know Brighton’s history?

Brighton is one of our favourite seaside destinations in Sussex and is renowned for its lively atmosphere, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. With a history that spans centuries, Brighton has seen a myriad of transformations and historical milestones. Let's explore five fascinating historical facts about Brighton that showcase its unique past.
Five Early Summer Reads to Enjoy in the Sunshine

For June, five releases that combine romance, rock, and restorative justice.
A basic guide to insurance by Lisa De Silva

Insurance can safeguard you, your family, and your property against the risk of loss, damage, illness, or death. In return for paying a regular premium, an insurance company will compensate you against any financial loss.
6 ways to improve your golf game in Sussex

If you have ever stood at the first tee on a golf course you’ll know the familiar polarity that follows. Your first shot can either go dead straight down the fairway and set you up for a great round of golf or, most commonly, it’s shanked into the trees and you know you’re shooting close to 100.

Cooksbridge to Hassocks Walk

Share

More from Downtime