Lewes Footpaths Group walk report - Balcombe and the Loder Valley

Sunday’s hike on October 11th was a lesson in geography because descending into a valley normally is followed by an ascent out of the valley. But in this case, we descended twice into the Loder Valley.  

The nine lucky walkers were blessed with a great day for hiking. We met on the edge of Balcombe and walked across fields with beautiful views across Balcombe Lake. We descended into woods and across a very long raised wooden walkway and bridge onto Boundary Road. We eventually turned off Paddockhurst Lane and climbed over a high stile into the Loder Valley. After the descent, we crossed Ardingly Brook and followed it down towards the Wakehurst “Lakes”. 

We had a civilized break with tables and benches at the Wakehurst/Kew Learning Centre before making our way up, out of the valley.  We were then back on the lane and followed that for roughly half a mile before descending to what remains of the reservoir. The fishermen were a long way from the shore.  Crossing the bridge at Balcombe Mill, we had our second steep ascent of the morning. After two more fields, another bridge and a tricky (exposed nails) stile, we were back at our starting point, 6.1 miles later and pleasantly exhausted. Tony was the leader.