We are the Waltham Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
via East Grimstead and Dean Hill. Picnic lunch. Leaving West Dean we will cross fields to enter Dean Copse. The route takes us out and across more fields which contain some stiles not in good order, but navigable (5 in all). The lovely Bentley Wood is entered, an SSSI where a wandering path through mixed woodland takes us out and onwards to East Grinstead. Passing through the village and across more fields to the church. A long straight track with views towards the downs and Dean Hill is traversed. At the foot of the downs a sunken chalk track angles up on to the crest where panoramic views open up. At Dean Hill we descend on a lane, to then take a footpath beside hedgerows back to West Dean.
No mud encountered on recce, very dry under foot. Some awkward stiles but us Ramblers will not let that put us off. All in one area with no other stiles as gates are in favour for the rest of the walk.
Parking opposite the station is permitted, but a charge of £3.00 is requested and placed in an honesty box. Parking available also in lanes close by.
Village Hall car park opposite West Dean train station
