Walking in England’s South Downs and Exmoor National Park
Energetic pace with more physically demanding activity. Longer walking/hiking tours (more than 3 hours), over uneven and possibly rugged terrain. Expect some longer days. Varying altitudes with some steep ascents/descents. Capable of standing for extended periods of time. Some days may include 5–13 km of walking over the course of the day.
We depart for London.
Upon arrival in London, we transfer to our hotel, which is nestled in a beautiful setting at the foot of the South Downs. A delightful cream tea awaits us as we settle in for our 4-night stay in the serene English countryside. This evening is our welcome briefing and dinner.
(Walking 7km with ascent 180m) We start today’s walk from the Halfway Bridge through the fields and woodland to Petworth, soaking up this beautiful, historic corner of Sussex. The National Trust's Petworth House is a true English gem - with grounds landscaped by 'Capability' Brown.
(Walking 8km with ascent 100m) This circular walk takes us through the nearby village of Thakeham and then, via Warminghurst church, along Park Lane. We continue along a footpath to Little Thakeham, before ascending to the ridge and returning to the House.
(Walking 6.5km with ascent 170m) We begin the start of the walk at the pretty village of Singleton, we have a gentle ascent of St Roche's Hill to reach the Trundle an Iron Age hill fort where there are breathtaking views. We then follow the Monarch's Way to finish at West Dean Gardens.
We transfer to Exmoor National Park, and our country house in Somerset, for a 7-night stay. A lovely cream tea welcomes us upon arrival.
Walk: 5 km with ascent of 240 m. Today we take a circular route from Holnicote House to Selworthy. We’ll explore the 15th century church, thatched cottages around the green, and maybe visit a tea room before returning to the House.
Walk: 2.5 km with ascent of 30 m. We follow a trail around the medieval village of Dunster—nestled in a valley and crowned with an impressive red sandstone castle. Our guide will lead us through cobbled streets and cottage—lined lanes as we discover the rich history of this charming village perched on the River Avill. After the walk, there will be plenty of time to explore the town.
A free day to enjoy the beauty of this National Park. Visit nearby attractions, take a self- guided walk, or just relax and unwind in the tranquil countryside.
Walk: 7km with ascent of 140 m, descent of 280 m. We begin with a descent to Watersmeet House, a Victorian fishing lodge now owned by the National Trust, where two fast flowing rivers meet in a spectacular wooded valley. Walking downstream past deep rock pools, we’ll reach Lynmouth and enjoy time to explore the town. Options include a walk out to the Valley of Rocks, visiting exhibitions on the great flood of 1952, riding the funicular cliff railway up to Lynton, or indulging in an ice cream and enjoying the scenery.
Walk: 8 km with ascent of 160 m, descent of 420 m. From high on the Quantock Hills, we’re treated to breathtaking views as we traverse moorland paths once walked by Iron Age peoples and Roman soldiers. Descending past Walford’s Gibbet through mystical woodlands, we arrive at Nether Stowey village, home of the poet Coleridge, with the chance to visit Coleridge Cottage. Enjoy the wonderful moorland scenery that inspired Coleridge, as well as poet William Wordsworth.
Walk: 6 km with ascent of 100 m. We start our walk in Bilbrook, and follow one of the longest river fords in the region, to reach the quintessential village of Old Cleeve, with its 17th-century church of St. Andrews. We then follow the Monk’s Path to Washford, and continue along the Mineral Line track to reach Watchet. There will be time to explore its harbour, originally built at the time of Alfred the Great, and take in the views across the Bristol Channel. Or, perhaps visit the Market House Museum to learn about the fascinating history of this once important town.
We transfer to the lovely seaside resort city of Brighton for our final 2-nights. Upon arrival, we’ll have a walking tour, followed by free time to explore the area.
This morning’s exciting tour takes us to see the magnificent dips and peaks of the Seven Sisters Chalk Sea Cliffs. One of Southern England’s most striking landscapes, this series of white chalky cliffs in the English Channel creates an illusion that they’re rising out of the water. The afternoon is free to explore Brighton at your leisure, and this evening is our Farewell Dinner.
We fly back to Canada from London.
You may cancel your tour up to 60 days prior to departure (90 days prior for tours requiring a visa, cruises or rail journeys) for any reason, and receive a full refund of your deposit / payment (less the $75 administration fee).
Cancellation & trip interruption insurance included!
Included in the cost of your tour is our Cancellation Insurance Policy, which provides coverage in case of emergency injury or illness (including Covid), right up to your date of departure (terms and conditions apply).
Our Manulife Out-of-Country Health Insurance Plan covers expenses related to Trip Interruption in case of emergency injury or illness. For tours within Canada, Senior Discovery Tours will cover such expenses (terms and conditions apply to all policies).
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