Date: TBC
Start: Lurgashall
Start Time: TBC
Distance: 5.3 miles
Terrain: Easy – Slight climb at the start then downhill & flat
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Fuel the Fire is a 5 mile walk that traces the story of how humans tamed the great Wealden Forest from the Norman Conquest through to Tudor times. This is the third walk in a three-part series, following The Wild Wood and Rooted in History. You do not need to have joined the other two walks to enjoy Fuel the Fire.
Despite its name, the Wild Wood has never been entirely wild—people have shaped it for millennia. Wood was the foundation of early societies, and each civilisation that encountered the forest managed its trees in its own way. As we walk, we’ll uncover traces of these past interactions and explore how human hands have shaped the landscape over time.
Trees are the silent keepers of our rural heritage, yet few have survived the centuries. Only some ancient yews remain as living witnesses to the past. To truly experience this journey, you’ll need to walk with curiosity and imagination, picturing the forest as it once was and sensing the layers of history beneath your feet.
Well-behaved, patient dogs on short leads are welcome.
Logistics
Please note: this is a linear walk. We will meet in Lurgashall, take a Book-A-Bus (which I will organise) to Tillington then walk back to Lurgashall. The bus costs the usual £3 and accepts bus passes.
REVIEWS
Read what others have written about their walking experience with Rural Strides:
You are a brilliant champion for the ‘Western Weald’ Thank you for opening my eyes wider than they have been! Mr B, Hampshire
