Wed 02 September 2026 - BALCOMBE CIRCULAR VIA WAKEHURST PLACE

Largely woodland walk through the high Weald, linking Balcombe Station with the Botanic Gardens at Wakehurst Place (National Trust but managed by Kew Gardens, free entry to cafe where we will  stop for lunch, although it is best to bring a picnic). The route takes us briefly to Ardingly reservoir with birdlife and good views before a hill climb through farmland. There is some road walking but mainly in woodlands, some of which is privately owned and has shooting rights (please stay on the main paths).  Kew Gardens members have free access to the entire site at Wakehurst  but we will not have time for a long visit.

Tree hugging group

Massive fallen Oak

Interesting signs

Wakehurst Place (1)

Wakehurst Place (2)

Sunken footpath

Wakehurst Place wild life

Descent through woods(1)

Descent through woods(2)

High stile

 Leader on the left 

 Through the woods on the boardwalk

Through the woods

The Wood Woman

Highlight of the walk?

 Photos: Hamish D, Ruth, Sue E, Craig D