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

■ Distance: 6½ miles/10.6km ■ Time: 2½ hours ■ Grade: Moderate

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.

■ Distance: 5½ miles/8.8km ■ Time: 3 hours ■ Grade: Moderate

THE area where the River Tees approaches the sea has been largely industrial in recent times, but the upper stretch of the river is very different in character. Here, while the villages, hamlets and r

A stone’s throw from the north-east of Manchester, this is a fabulous high-level circuit above beautiful Peak District reservoir valleys.