Houghton, Coldwaltham and Bignor Loop

Starting near the picturesque village of Houghton in West Sussex, England, the Houghton, Coldwaltham and Bignor Loop is a delightful 22 km (approximately 13.7 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet). This trail offers a medium difficulty rating, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.### Getting ThereTo reach the trailhead, you can drive to Houghton, which is accessible via the A29 road. If you prefer public transport, the nearest train station is Amberley, located about 2 miles (3.2 km) from Houghton. From Amberley, you can either take a taxi or enjoy a scenic walk to the trailhead.### Trail OverviewThe trail begins in Houghton, a charming village known for its traditional English countryside ambiance. As you set off, you'll traverse through a mix of open fields, woodlands, and rolling hills. The initial part of the trail is relatively flat, allowing you to ease into the hike.### Significant Landmarks and Points of Interest#### Houghton Bridge and River ArunAbout 1.5 km (0.9 miles) into the hike, you'll cross the historic Houghton Bridge over the River Arun. This is a great spot to pause and take in the serene river views. The River Arun is one of the longest rivers in Sussex and is home to a variety of wildlife, including kingfishers and otters.#### Coldwaltham and St. Giles ChurchContinuing on, you'll reach the village of Coldwaltham at around the 7 km (4.3 miles) mark. Here, you can visit St. Giles Church, a beautiful example of Norman architecture dating back to the 12th century. The churchyard offers a peaceful resting spot and a chance to appreciate the historical significance of the area.#### Bignor Roman VillaApproximately 15 km (9.3 miles) into the hike, you'll come across Bignor Roman Villa. This site features some of the best-preserved Roman mosaics in England. The villa dates back to the 3rd century AD and provides a fascinating glimpse into Roman life in ancient Britain. There is a small entrance fee, but it's well worth the visit.### Nature and WildlifeThe trail meanders through the South Downs National Park, offering a rich tapestry of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The woodlands are particularly vibrant in spring and autumn, with bluebells carpeting the forest floor in April and May.### Navigation and SafetyGiven the trail's moderate difficulty, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be reassuring, especially in the more remote sections.### Final StretchAs you loop back towards Houghton, the final 5 km (3.1 miles) offer gentle descents and stunning views of the South Downs. The trail concludes back in Houghton, where you can relax at a local pub or café, reflecting on the diverse landscapes and historical landmarks you've encountered.This loop trail is a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.