Date: TBC
Start: Langham Brewery, Lodsworth
Start Time: 10.00
Distance: 5.3 miles
Terrain: Undulating
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If you go down to the woods this October day you are sure of a big surprise…….as the floor is sure to be carpeted with delicious sweet chestnuts! This is because the sweet chestnut tree loves the sandy soils that surround Lodsworth. It is consequently the staple crop of Wealden woodworkers. They use it to make many specialist, local products, because it is light to work, easy to split and durable. In addition to the properties of its wood, the tree’s fruiting body, the chestnut, is also a delicious, autumnal treat.
Assuming the local squirrels aren’t too greedy, we will be harnessing our inner forager on this walk, collecting chestnuts to take back to the brewery. There we will roast them on the courtyard braziers. The question is, how many beers does it take to fully roast a chestnut? We might have to collect some data on this important research topic!
If you haven’t encountered chestnuts before, please be warned that they have quite a prickly exterior. They don’t give up their tasty fruit easily, so either come prepared for a few prickles or bring a pair of gloves.
If we find enough chestnuts we will also plant a few up to nurture and plant out another year.
PS….If you love craft ale and would like to understand a little more about how it’s done, Langham offer a guided tour and tasting of their 10 barrel steam-heated brewery. You can find out more here. Also, for the budding brewer or beer connoisseur there is a Brew Day Experience
Rural Strides
Rural Strides is passionate about the history and cultural landscape of the Western Weald. Through engaging walks, which interpret the land and share local stories, we seek to connect people to the beauty of the area as well as the inspiring businesses that we partner. We hope you will find a Rural Strides walk an authentic and memorable experience, that will leave you feeling like a local!
You can read more about the Western Weald here
Not interested in beer? View other walks here
