Not for the faint-hearted, the BIG 60km offers many highs throughout your walk (and that’s not just the hills!), it provides a great variety of terrain and stunning scenery, and is the perfect way to experience the broad and sweeping landscapes of West Sussex. The feeling of exhilaration and the tremendous sense of achievement when you cross the finish line will make it all worthwhile.
Here is a little taster of what you can expect when walking the 60km route:
The first 3km: Once you exit the racecourse you’ll go off-road through the woods and into Selhurst Park. Despite being deep in woodland, you’ll enjoy glimpses of the stunning views to the south including Halnaker Windmill before crossing into Eartham parish.
6km – 13km: Amble through the wild coppiced chestnut woods and rolling arable fields following the Monarch’s Way for a small section. The paths through the woods are 4x4 tracks and, if wet, will be a little muddy in places. Heading south you’ll follow bridleways to picturesque Slindon with its thatched cottages.
13km – 21km: So far there have been very few hills, but the first incline comes after crossing the A29 as you pass through the last of the coppiced woods (complete with deer and a wide range of birdlife). From the top of Rewell Wood, this is where the 40km route splits from the 60km route - make sure you follow the 60km route signs!
From Rewell Wood you’ll descend into Arundel and walk through the streets of this historic castle town and head into Arundel Park, for your third well-earned rest.
21km – 27km: Your surroundings change dramatically in this section of the route, as you drop down and then climb up through rolling parkland before descending to the River Arun. Once again in wet weather, this path by the river can have puddles and be muddy underfoot. After 1km you’ll leave the riverside and continue North where you’ll continue to walk for a further 1km before encountering The South Downs Way for the first time.
27km – 38km: At this stage, all your training will be kicking in as your body starts to be tested. This next section is the longest between Power Stations so it will feel like a tough stint; on the plus side though it is the flattest section! You’ll walk through the quiet village of Amberley and cross the flat and eerie Amberley Brooks. These are low lying brooks and will be wet and muddy and even high in water at some points, so be prepared and have some dry socks to change into. You will now be past the halfway point (hooray!) and after re-joining the River Arun for a short distance you’ll start heading West. Crossing the A29 again at Coldwaltham, you’ll head along sections of quiet county lanes and forest tracks and into a private estate, the perfect rest stop for a well-earned drink and bite to eat.
38km – 45km: You will start heading towards the village of Bignor and approaching the biggest and most challenging climb of the whole walk; as you walk up Bignor Hill. In total, this is a 170-metre continuous ascent and will take you to the peak of the South Downs, as you once again join the South Downs.
45km – 48km: Once rested and the views explored, you’ll be pleased to know this section of the route is surprisingly flat. You’ll walk over the open chalk downs before dropping down and crossing the A285 (this is a busy road so please cross with care). You’ll now be back on The South Downs Way and will start climbing upwards again, although don’t worry; this is steep but short at only 110 metres.
48km – 55km: You are now at Graffham Down, famous for its unique wildlife. Shortly after here at 50km, after what will seem like a very long walk over the hills, you’ll start the long drop down through forestry towards Charlton.
55km – 60km: After following the route through the village's houses and cottages you’ll start a long, steep ascent up onto a track and back towards the racecourse. Here you’ll have your first glimpse of the finish, as you start walking along the final stretch into the grounds of Goodwood and the finish line!
Congratulations - you’ve just walked the BIG 60km!
If after reading this blog you’re excited to walk in our BIG 60km, simply, book your place today.
Once you’ve registered, you can join our dedicated 60km walkers Facebook group, where you’ll receive training tips, kit advice, route information and also have the chance to chat to other 60km Just Walkers before the event.
Please note this route could be subject to change, we will keep you updated with any changes.
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