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Embrace The Night

Date: TBC
Start: Cocking
Start Time: 6pm
Distance: Not more than 4 miles
Terrain: One climb

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Too many long, cold winter nights are spent indoors – but darkness is not something to fear. It’s something to celebrate.

This February, as part of the South Downs National Park’s annual Dark Skies Festival, join us for a gentle, night walk on a moonless evening – the perfect time to experience true night. The South Downs is a rare sanctuary where natural darkness is protected. Away from the glare of streetlights, it’s possible to rediscover our connection with the night sky.

This will be a slow, immersive, sensory experience, not a route march. With our dominant sense of sight diminished, we’ll rely on our ears, noses, skin and feet to explore the evening soundscape, the night-time smells, and the subtle textures of the landscape. Meanwhile, we’ll take in the celestial majesty above us,  spotting major winter constellations and reflecting on our place within the vastness of the universe.

Stepping out into the dark can be transformative. It invites calm, curiosity and connection with nature, with the universe, and with ourselves. So, why not step outside your comfort zone this February, leave the bright lights behind and embrace the night?

  • This will be a small group walk (no more than 12 people)
  • No dogs please…….or waterproof trousers (their rustling spoils the peace & quiet)
  • Walking sticks/poles encouraged

 

Night sky sheep silhouette

 

REVIEWS

Read what others have said about their night walking experience with Rural Strides:

I found out about Reclaim The Night via the South Downs Dark Skies Festival. Malinka, who leads the group walks, is so approachable, helpful and articulate. I came to the event solo and felt very welcome and safe. I loved my evening adventure 🙂

What a wonderful experience. Being bathed in the moonlight, seeing the stars glittering, hearing the night sounds and picking up the different scents as made our way was a lifetime experience and a humbling one too. One I will never forget.

A wonderful night walk which awakened all the senses.