The South Downs Way For Old Folks, Sussex, UK.

Описание: A slower, gentler approach to tackling the SDW for those of us of advancing years. Comfortable accommodation, good food, reasonable weight packs etc. In spite of this, however, one of us sustained a nasty shoulder injury. This meant even lighter packs as we consigned more or less everything to Luggage Transfers Ltd but also cost us a couple of stages. Nevertheless, with all the off-path detours to B & B’s etc, we still ended up covering 152km with 3850m of elevation gain.

A few comments on accommodation for those contemplating doing the SDW this way. The area tends to be expensive and neither did we always feel that we got value for money. Choice can certainly be limited at this - mid October - time of the year. There were some outstandingly successful choices and some outright disasters.

Exton. Crossways B & B. Beautiful barn conversion. Spacious, clean and comfortable. Incredibly generous make-your-own breakfast. In fact there was plenty for dinner too. 9/10

Buriton. The Nest. Desperately over priced. A just about ok room wrt space and cleanliness. However, for £160 all you get is a continental breakfast and a poor one at that. 3/10

Cocking. Hyesett House B & B. A traditional ensuite-in-the-owners-house set up but beautifully done. Spotless, roomy and comfortable. Excellent full breakfast. Lovely, accommodating hostess. Host a bit prickly though. 8/10

Houghton. The A Barn South Downs Stay. Hugely impressive renovation of a listed barn. Individual suites around a central common lounge/kitchen. Hands down the nicest place we’ve stayed in on this or any other hiking trip to the UK. Lovely hostess who can’t do enough for you. 10+/10

Washington. Holt House B & B. Gruesome. Avoid at all costs. 1/10

Poynings. South Downs Way B & B. OK accommodation in a renovated period house. We found the quality of the renovation to be rather over stated. Friendly, helpful host and a very good breakfast. Hostess decidedly distant and unfriendly. 5/10

South Ease. Rodmell House B & B. Avoid. 2/10

Exceat. Salt Marsh Hotel. Right in Seven Sisters CP and wonderfully situated for a leisurely last day over the Seven Sisters. Beautiful, well appointed rooms and a fabulous breakfast. There was a massive drawback however. The owners’ indulged dogs are given free rein to run unchecked all over the property so you’re subject to barking and slobbering as you’re trying to enjoy breakfast, navigate the stairs etc. 6/10. Without dogs 10/10.

Eastbourne. The Burlington Hotel. A classic Victorian seafront horror. Yes, it's old. Yes, it needs extensive refurbishment. But our room - a superior sea view twin - was spacious, well equipped and clean. The breakfast at £10 was excellent value. A good value option. 7/10