The scorched grass and burnt fields have created quite a different Sussex landscape, and the other day I caught myself day-dreaming about rain. Please remind me of this moment when I am wading through winter mud, head down into the drizzle.
But the heat hasn’t stopped me exploring, and I’ve got plenty of new ideas to share with you.
First and foremost, let’s revive the tradition of Belloc Night on 27 July, celebrating the birthday of Sussex’s great poet and writer, Hilaire Belloc (my latest obsession). Better still, Belloc believed the best celebrations were wonderfully simple – good cheese, crispy bacon and a pint of beer. I’ve rounded up some of the best places in Sussex to raise a glass in his honour.
If you fancy a walk somewhere a little different, head to Ebernoe Common, tucked away between Petworth and Haslemere. This sleepy, hidden corner of Sussex is home to a wonderful nature reserve where the woodland hides the fascinating ruins and traces of a long-lost community.
As Horsham is our Town of the Month, we’ve also been back exploring some of its best-known (and lesser-known) curiosities. Scratch the surface, and you’ll uncover stories of an Indian princess, dragons, quirky bridges, forgotten graveyards, kings and queens, remarkable sculpture and even a little crime. There’s far more to Horsham than first meets the eye.
And last, but by no means least, Geoff Stonebanks has another wonderful selection of National Garden Scheme gardens for you to visit as summer reaches its glorious peak.
Elsewhere this week, Max and Rachel from Elevate Fitness share some timely advice on keeping fit, healthy and safe during the hot weather.
As always, don’t forget to browse our Things to Do, discover even more features on the website, and, if you haven’t already, take a look through our Summer Magazine.
That’s all for now. I’ve got plenty more exploring planned over the next few weeks, so with a bit of luck I’ll see some of you out on the Sussex trails.
Until next week,
Lucy
Sussex Exclusive
