Around Bignor's Roman Remains

1 From the lofty vantage point of Bignor Hill, which rises to 737ft (25m) and is cared for by the National Trust, follow the tarmac lane down towards Bignor Roman Villa. There are classic views between the trees over extensive Sussex landscape. The lane descends through the woodland, passing a bridleway on the right as it bends left. On reaching Bignor village centre, take the road signposted 'Sutton and Duncton'. Pass a telephone box and on the right is picturesque Wealden House. To visit the Roman Villa, one of the largest in Britain, turn right here and walk along to the entrance.

2 To resume the walk, retrace your steps to Wealden House and continue ahead along the road. Swing left at Manor Farm and pass the Parish Church of Holy Cross. A yew tree, so familiar to country churchyards, can be seen in the corner. Follow the lane as it descends steeply through the trees and then climbs between high hedges towards Sutton. Pass the village sign and follow the road as it bends left by a bridleway running off to the right. Walk into the village and when the road bends right by the White Horse, go straight on towards Barlavington and Duncton.

3 Follow the lane between stone-built houses and cottages, pass Sutton Farm and head out of the village. Keep left at the fork and follow the 'No through road'. A glorious tree-clad scarp, the walk's next objective, looms ahead. When the lane bends left, continue on the bridleway. Further on, the track can become wet and muddy underfoot, at the point where you share the route with a stream. You reach drier ground soon enough. Begin a gentle, slow ascent through the woodland and gradually the path narrows and becomes progressively steeper. The dramatic ascent eases further up and here you pass a left-hand footpath. Keep right at the fork and soon daylight can be seen ahead, reaching through the trees.
At a meeting point of tracks, go forward and then bear left after about 50yds (45m). A gate can be seen here, leading into a field on the right. Follow the chalk track as it climbs gently, with glorious views over remote, well-wooded country. The track curves towards several transmitters which can be seen peeping above the trees.

4 Pass a National Trust sign for Bignor Hill and a bridleway on the right. Cut through woodland and now the track begins a gentle descent. Gradually the views widen to reveal glorious woodland and downland stretching into the distance. Head down to a junction, keep ahead on the South Downs Way and avoid the signposted route to Gumber Bothy. Shortly the car park comes into view ahead.