Views & Vistas trip Thursday 15th February 2018.

We departed on time with 43 members. The weather was dry and overcast to begin with but blue sky broke through when we were in Lewes and continued until we left Brighton. Due to fairly clear roads, we arrived at our coffee stop in Patcham 15 minutes early, where we met our C&V guide Lyn. We were soon enjoying tea/coffee and biscuits. The price being £5.25 per couple was very reasonable. We first travelled to Devil’s Dyke. The weather being clear we had views as far as Hindhead in the North and the Brighton 360i in the opposite direction.

Our next stop was Lewes, where Lyn took those interested on a 40 minute guided walking tour. We all found this particularly interesting including members who know Lewes well but who were surprised by some of the “hidden treasures” revealed by Lyn’s in depth knowledge.

Lewes

We took lunch in Brighton at The Mercure Hotel, overlooking the sea with the sun beaming through the windows. Our three option two course meal was very well received and was followed by tea and coffee. There was a short free time period after which we all assembled at The British Airways 360i at 3pm. Having queued to pass through security our “flight” took place at 3.30 pm. The cabin takes 175 people but did not seem particularly crowded despite being mid-afternoon on a half term holiday day. The experience was enjoyed by one and all under a sunny and brilliant blue sky. The 360i travels gently to 400 feet above sea level and gives wonderful panoramic views of the sea and land. After our 360i experience there was about 45 minutes free time for a stroll, cup of tea or an ice cream.

At 4.45pm we remounted the coach and drove through Brighton with Lyn pointing out places of interest. We eventually arrived back in Liphook at around 6.45 pm. I am satisfied a good time was had by one and all. Chris Wright 15.02.2018