Alex Roddie enjoys the best bit of the undulating South Downs Way

■ Distance: 10 miles/15.5km ■ Time: 5 hours ■ Grade: Challenging

We all know walking is good for us, but walking in good company is even better. So, with an unexpected weekend to myself, I am exploring the West Sussex countryside on a guided break with HF Holidays.

THE BIG RIDE

Roger Butler peers over steep slopes on a roller coaster along Offa’s Dyke

ON THE LITTLE-KNOWN ISLE OF SHEPPEY, ELMLEY IS THE UK’S ONLY NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE WITH OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION — OFFERING A QUIET RETREAT FOR BIRDERS