Summer is not officially over yet, and I’ve managed to salvage last sunny weekend to again join Outdooraholics for another hike. Navigating paths at the border of East Sussex and Kent counties, I enjoyed the green and calm atmosphere of woods and stunning crags of Harrison’s Rocks.
Eridge
As usual, we departed in the morning from London and, around 10AM, arrived at Eridge, the starting point of the hike.
Initially, the walk led us first through some picturesque streets of the small village of Eridge Green.
The morning felt a bit chilly at first. Still, after a few minutes of a brisk walk, we warmed up, and the temperature became very enjoyable, perfect to balance the excessive heat generated from moving.
Eridge Rocks Nature Reserve
After about 20 minutes, we left the asphalt road and entered the nearby woods leading us towards Eridge Rocks Nature Reserve.
I didn’t do any research before this hike, so I didn’t know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised to see some rocks hidden in the woods.
I spotted this massive, old tree with twisted roots between the boulders. The scene was illuminated by the gentle sun rays, diffused by the tree crowns above.
The ancient tree looked precisely how I’d imagine an Ent! Was it the one that spurred the imagination of artists and writers?
The Eridge Rocks is a sandstone rock formation hidden away in the woodlands of the High Weald of East Sussex. Some of the boulders are 10+ meters high. Rocks have a fascinating surface, exposing porous texture defined by millennia of weather exposure.
We continued to follow the trail, and I enjoyed the forest vibes. There’s so much detail and textures in every place you look.
Often we walked through these natural corridors, which created mesmerizing experience.
I just love how many details the Sony camera can capture.
Combined with the smooth, creamy bokeh of the Sigma lens, I’m convinced this is an excellent pair for many photography adventures.
Harrison’s Rocks
Around noon we reached another sandstone crag named Harrison’s Rocks. The location is very popular with rock climbers, offering couple hundred climbs.
The rocks offer very interesting views, with cracked, worn sandstone walls and many fissures often occupied by the tree roots trying to grow on the meager soil layers.
The crag is relatively short, but looking at its surface, you can easily imagine why it could be a fantastic spot for climbing enthusiasts.
Looking west, you can admire views of Sanden Vineyard, with an impressive mansion overlooking the fields from the top.
We stop for the lunch break in the parking area of Harrison’s Rocks. Refreshed and rested, we continued our walk.
Groombridge Place
We’ve passed a pretty manor house called Groombridge Place. It is a moated manor house located in the village of Groombridge near Tunbridge Wells, Kent.
It had a well-maintained garden with some impressive Redwoods growing in front.
Toward Ashurst
The final part of the walk led us through mixed scenery of woods, fields and gentle hills towards the village of Ashurst.
There was still a lot to see, admire & experience.
I’ve spotted many unique shapes and textures of collapsed trees and tree trunks.
Sometimes, it was a peek at someone’s front garden or the gate that caught my attention.
Other times, just a clear view of the countryside, which we admired walking down the hills.
Or maybe a mature mushroom that hid in the grass.
I really enjoyed this walk. Had a great time meeting and talking with a few interesting people, discovered some new places and took some great photos. What’s better to ask?
Until next time!
