Amberley and the South Downs (April 2026)

‘Oh to be in England now that April is there’, as true in 2026 as when Robert Browning wrote those immortal words in 1845. Stunning views, glorious sunshine, a refreshing breeze and the soundtrack of soaring skylarks. Heaven.

The bipeds and quadrupeds

We numbered 12 bipeds and two dogs, Poppy, a Spanish rescue and Giorgi, my Greek rescue. Leaving promptly on the dot of 10am, Ann led us at a cracking pace and soon we were up on the ridge. Stupendous views as far as the sea with the South Downs all around, we clocked up 19 km/11 miles but it hardly seemed so and we made it just in time to the Riverside café for much needed gallons of tea, ample pieces of cake and the odd glass of something more fortifying (so they said). Thank you, Ann, for leading this walk which firmly put the long wet winter behind us. Great company, good chat, best weather. Here’s to spring!

Jan O'Brien