Cocking-Heyshott Circle. A walk from the Blue Bell at Cocking

Cocking-Heyshott Circle, A walk from the Blue Bell at Cocking.

The whole character of this walk is one of forest and then open downland views. In other words everything you would expect from the South Downs. When we surveyed this walk it was on a dull day and there is very little cheer to be had from a dull day. Or is there? We were charmed by the forest scenes and saw several deer and rabbits. The Church at Heyshott is very pleasant and as you walk towards the downs the views become more panoramic, with plenty of activity from birds and animals alike. All in all there is just enough strain in this to make you feel like you’ve completed a walk but not enough to completely drain yourself. In any event you will feel like you’ve earned a pint at the end of the walk.

Start at The Blue Bell Cocking   Cross the road to the old post office.

Point 1 = 2 finger post go down the gravel road. Then over a stream and turn left. Aim for top right corner.

Point 2 =finger post nailed to a telegraph pole (may be covered with ivy. Follow as path leads  

Point 3 = 3 finger post carry straight on to Point 4 = 2 finger post again carry straight on.

Point 5=finger post go down steps and over stream and slightly up the hill on the left there is Point 6 =  yellow post turn right

Points 7 + 8 are yellow post follow as path leads through these points. Point 9 = another yellow post turn right here.

Point10 =  2 finger post turn left. Point 11= 2 finger post bear left. Point12 = tarmac road, turn right. This is a main road but there is plenty of room. Point13 =  junction turn right and follow road. To Point14 =  a path coming from your left carry straight on. Point15 =  Church on left bear right on road and walk to the back of the hall. Point16 =  finger post hidden by the wall turn left here and follow as path leads. Point17 = yellow post follow as path leads around the edge of the field    

Point 18 = a small footbridge going through a hedge. Point 19 =  yellow post up the hill carry straight on over the field.

Point 20 =  gap in the hedge joining track turn right and follow as track leads. Point 21 =  3 finger post carry straight on

Point 22 =  track joins road turn left and follow road this is a very quiet road but be on your guard.

Point 23 =  gap in hedge with yellow post in field. Follow edge of field, with hedge to your left.

Point 24 = yellow post cross track and up steps then carry straight on over field.

Point 25 =  yellow post beside the house. Pass the house on the right and follow edge of field join at Point 3  which is a little difficult to spot but it is down a short flight of steps. then retrace your steps to pub

Find more walks from the Blue Bell Cocking here.