Plan your trip

WALK HERE Turn to Walk 5 in this issue.

GETTING HERE

Our suggested route begins at Southease Station (near YHA South Downs), served by trains from Lewes ( www.southernrailway.com). You could also set out from Glynde, as Ravilious did (trains from Lewes and Eastbourne), but must cross the busy A27. If you’re arriving by car, we advise parking and starting in Firle (postcode BN8 6NS), which is also served by buses 38 and 125 ( www.cuckmerebuses.org.uk).

WHERE TO STAY

Country Walking stayed at YHA South Downs. Dorm beds at the former Itford Farm cost from £15pppn, but we opted for a private room, available from £26pn (0345 371 9574; www.yha.org.uk). A hearty cooked breakfast costs an extra £6.25 each. If you’re after somewhere more upmarket, try Sussex’s historic county town for inns and guesthouses. A B&B break in Lewes costs around £40pppn ( www.staylewes.org).

WHERE TO EAT

Start your day with coffee and cake at the

Courtyard Café (at YHA South Downs) and refuel at the acclaimed Ram Inn at Firle (01273 858222; www.raminn.co.uk). If you don’t fancy posh pub grub (with mains costing from £15 upwards), you could buy picnic supplies at Firle Stores instead.

POST-WALK PERUSING

Pop along the Sussex coast to see the Ravilious Room at Eastbourne’s

Towner Gallery. It’s home to a number of his paintings, alongside works by his contemporaries. Entry is free: www.townereastbourne.org.uk. The gallery shop stocks a selection of excellent books by James Russell, exploring Eric Ravilious’ life and work. You can also buy Ravilious in Pictures: Sussex and the Downs, plus other titles directly from The Mainstone Press ( www.themainstonepress.com).