Sussex Walks - The Railway Land in Lewes
So I realised I've been missing a trick... every morning I walk Monty for at least an hour somewhere around Sussex and because I've got so used to these handful of places it never really occurred to me to blog them. But, they are all beautiful and deserve some blogging love!
One of my absolutely favourite spots for the morning walk (but beautiful any time of day) is the Railway Land in Lewes - it has everything for me and the dog. There's water, trees, woods, reeds, ponds, fields and views. What a feast for the mind and eyes.
It's a wildlife haven on the site of the old railway sidings and platform for the Lewes to Uckfield line which stood until 1989. It is located right next to the stretch of the River Ouse that flows underneath Cliffe High St in the town.
There is extensive wildlife work going on in the reserve including web cams and work on the maintenance and advancement of the large reedbeds. The Winterbourne stream from the downland chalk streams brings the ditches essential supplies for the aquatic invertebrates.
There's enough space to take a relaxed amble and the fields connect to the side of the river for a slightly longer walk. The best thing to do is just wander around but then the space is also great for peaceful picnics. There's a viewing platform which children always find great fun and also the woodland provides a great natural play area igniting imagination and allowing kids a break from modern life. The reserve is extremely popular with dog walkers so you can get your doggo fill here!
There are also a couple of regular herons, keep an eye out for these beauties.
Where to park
There are a few options for parking including Court Road, Railway Lane and Railway Lane car park (next to the Premier Inn) and all reasonably priced on the meters. Use address Railway Lane, Lewes, BN7 2FG for sat navs.
What's nearby
Lewes' collection of independent boutiques and cafes are a stones throw from the reserve. There are also an abundance of High St cafes and restaurants. There's also a Waitrose for those essential picnic supplies (please, please be responsible with your litter).