Common spotted, pyramidal, fragrant, bee, man - orchids are easy to identify as the name describes the flower. Keen-eyed beginners and experts alike may spot rarer lady, fly, butterfly and frog specimens as well as other chalk-loving species. From the hilltops we glimpse London landmarks on the horizon, a contrast to the biodiverse habitat and rural idyll.
From Shoreham Station we take the farm track, serenaded by skylarks, to Preston Hill, formerly an army rifle range and the first of our chalk grassland SSSIs. Sampling wild strawberries, and amid clouds of butterflies if the day is sunny, we make our way to Magpie Bottom and Fackenden Down, two more SSSIs, and return via White Hill.
Please bring a picnic. Refreshments available in Shoreham after the walk.
Hilly, with some uneven ground, but the pace will be leisurely and stop-start as we spot the orchids.
Assistance dogs only please.