Enjoy a walk in the countryside with our resident archaeologist talking through points of interest.

This year we are excited for the return of our Archaeology Walks Programme with seven walks taking place between April and July. Three walks take place on Saturday mornings, three on midweek mornings and one on a Thursday evening. Walks include Kingley Vale and Kithurst Hill along with some old favourites like Cissbury Ring, Highdown and Chanctonbury Ring.

For most of these walks our resident archaeologist James Sainsbury will be bringing along genuine artefacts from the museum collections, giving attendees the opportunity to handle items in the locations they were originally found.

From James
“We are all extremely lucky to live in an area that not only has outstanding natural beauty, but also outstanding archaeological remains. I hope during these walks I can communicate and share my passion for these ancient places and the peoples who once lived, walked, loved and died within the landscapes we inherited today”

Kingley Vale
Situated north of Chichester, Kingley Vale is home to the oldest and largest yew forest in Europe, with some of the best examples of Bronze Age burial mounds in the whole of Sussex. We will explore the archaeology hidden beneath the boughs, before walking down to Stoughton village for a stop at the Hare & Hounds. After a short rest and refreshment, we will investigate the 11th century St Mary’s church, and then return to the forest on our return journey.

8 miles/approx 4hrs – This is a longer walk, with significant ascents and descents, and is therefore only recommended to experienced hikers.

Please Note
The walks are of varying difficulty – Please note the length before booking as some involve more climbing than others! It is advisable to bring water to all of the walks, and a bite to eat on Tuesday and Saturday sessions. Dogs are welcome on a lead.