Everything I Did Wrong on the South Downs Way

[@tararuaman]

Hello from NZ, good on you girl for taking the plunge and getting out there . I'm 73 and still tramping. Been tramping since I was a boy so I have grown up with it . you talk of lighter kit, every time you put on your pack the body rebels but as time goes on it will adjust to it. If you could do it every day, it would take two weeks to get your legs and wind, that's what we say over here. So get out there and don't stop. Cheers

[@karenguttridge]

Hi there! Thanks for the great advice 😃 I’ll get practising… What a beautiful country you have for hiking-I’ve been to NZ a few times and absolutely love it! Happy hiking 😍👍

[@tomburgess4741]

I've done the South Downs twice, as well as many others, and have watched other excellent videos about hiking. I can't but help love your 'have a go attitude'. Well done, wonderful to watch ...

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Tom-thanks for your lovely comment! I really loved the SDW and would definitely love to hike it again.. but I’ve got so many on my list to do! I’ll always remember it as the trail that taught me so many lessons-when I did my next multi day trip I was so much better prepared 😃👍

[@peterc2248]

Well what an achievement.You should feel so proud of yourself not only for completing the journey but for making such an honest record. Truly inspiring and one of the best videos I've seen on KZbin. Well done and many, many thanks.

[@karenguttridge]

What a lovely comment-thank you so much! 😍 Getting that sort of feedback gives me the push to make more videos!

[@peterc2248]

@@karenguttridge Please do. I am very overweight and really struggle with flexibility which makes even putting on boots a challenge! I try to walk most days even for a mile or so, so watching your videos is super motivation.

[@karenguttridge]

@@peterc2248 walking most days is a great thing! I always feel so much better after even a short time outdoors, hope you feel that too 😊 I’m looking forward so much now to Spring! 😍

[@rayking2254]

Thanks for sharing your experience of the S.D.W

[@mygoogleaccount3938]

35:21 I love this scene!😂 I'm glad you found your phone in a short time looking! 😅

[@cmgk3596]

lovely channel. would love to do this walk after having so much fun doing the isle of wight coastal path!

[@discospaghetti6744]

Hi Karen, I love this video and your channel. Youre down to earth and honest about the ups and the downs. I'm going to share your channel with my mum who is around your age, we're both new to the outdoors but loving getting active in it together.

[@michaelingledew]

I ‘attempted’ the SDW on my mountain bike back in 2020. I wish I’d seen your video before hand. I learned a tremendous amount about myself. 1 - I’m fit but not SDW fit. 2 - fuel correctly and stay hydrated. 3 - don’t over estimate your capabilities, I set unrealistic daily goals and I was dead by the end of the first day. I’ve watched many SDW videos and this is the best one I’ve seen. To boot we’re in the same ‘age’ demographic and you have inspired this middle-aged man. One small criticism, I would have liked more info about where you stayed (names etc). But your journey was wonderful and thank you for sharing - Mike

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Mike! Thank you for your lovely comment and I totally understand the experience you had (as you can see by my video!) These trails are not to be underestimated... I’m so glad you feel inspired to do more-I can’t wait to get out there again and tick off some more adventures 😍 Thanks also for the feedback on the accommodation-I’ll make sure to name it all on future videos (except when I’m wild camping!) Thanks again for watching 😃👍

[@iandism]

Thank you for a wonderful journey Karen. 9 years ago, I planned on coming to the UK from Guernsey and walking the Pennine Way. However, aged 50 that year, I was diagnosed with stage 4 lymphoma and told that I would need chemotherapy, which I ended up having a few years later. Now, unfortunately, I know that I would never be able to follow that dream, so I like to watch videos on KZbin of others doing what I had longed to do. Watching your video this morning inspired me greatly, to maybe take on a smaller challenge than the Pennine Way. I had invested in some great gear that I've never used, so maybe now I can give it a go, with no rush and to take my time, where I hope to enjoy the beautiful countryside of the UK again. Thank you again for your inspirational video.

[@karenguttridge]

How wonderful to receive this! I’m glad you’ve recovered and-yes-definitely put that gear to use! There are so many trails to choose from and if you tackle something shorter and close to amenities first you can see how you get on. Best of luck with everything!

[@DavidRoberts-yg9ic]

I really enjoyed your short video which brought back happy memories of doing the South Downs Trailwalker a few years ago - only 100 kilometres but done in 20 hours. ...... and what scenery to walk in !!!

[@karenguttridge]

Wow that’s some challenge David! 🤩 I haven’t heard of the Trailwalker-I’ll look it up 😃

[@Mondro26]

The music is so soothing with the picturesque views.

[@hArtyTruffle]

Thanks for sharing those things to consider. What a lovely peaceful trip 🫶🏻

[@rogerhowis]

`i have watched loads of videos of similar walks. I love yours as I can relate to it so well. We did the Cumbria way with far too much weight . Straight after the holiday I was going to sell the rucksacks but now planning doing the South Downs way with a lot less weight. Brilliant Kaz loved your video

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Roger-the Cumbria Way is in my list too 😃 The first think I did after the SDW was get a new rucksack! I went for an Osprey Aura and I can’t believe the difference-just fantastic! You’ll love the SDW but do remember to factor in water… Happy hiking!

[@rogerhowis]

@@karenguttridge hi kas yes had two ospreys they are brilliant good luck with hiking please video it you are a natural in front of camera

[@karenguttridge]

@@rogerhowis Thank you so much-you’ve inspired me to get out and do another! 🤩

[@angelaharvey4499]

At the end of lockdown in 2020 I did the North Downs Way. The weather was wonderful and so were the views. I did the South Downs Way in April 2018 . Unfortunately some of the days were rather wet and underfoot quite a quagmire. Still enjoyable though. Hope to do it again in summer 2021. Loved your video and choice of music too.

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Angela 😊 I have the North Downs Way on my list too 👍 These trails are so lovely but it’s definitely a more enjoyable experience if you get the weather! I’m hoping to do the Cotswolds Way and maybe Hadrian’s Wall next. Thanks for your lovely comment! 😃

[@JamesandRibble]

I think the final mistake was to take the inland cyclists route from Alfriston to Eastbourne rather than the walkers only route over the spectacular seven sisters. But great video, i really enjoyed it. Well done for getting through the heat and completing the walk in one go.

[@bangyai3194]

Thanks for a very entertaining vlog. That second campsite was really perfect. Hope to do this myself next year as Scotland is just too far from the Isle of Wight where I will be visiting my mum on holiday from overseas. Next up will watch your IOW videos as I will need to get myself in shape first.

[@karenguttridge]

Thanks for your lovely comment! 😍 I think you’ll enjoy the walk. I travelled to the start from Bournemouth so not too far from where you’ll be. Enjoy! 😊

[@everyoneknowsadave3580]

just discovered your channel and glad i did.... lovely video and frankly gives first timers a heads up on what to expect and how hard it can be on a multi day backpacking trip ... i must admit i did laugh 😂 at the search for where the heck you put your phone ?!?! ... yup done that myself 😂 ... anyhoo i’ll have to catch up with some of your other hiking videos .... thank you for sharing your adventures ATB Dave Mc

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Dave-thanks so much for your lovely comment-it really helps me to know if I’m putting out helpful stuff! I learn such a lot every time I head out on a multi day trip and my phone is now tagged with a bit of orange ribbon 😂

[@everyoneknowsadave3580]

@@karenguttridge 😂👍👍

[@grahamparsons2642]

Well done on your first hiking adventure, you done so well

[@niks_healthy_lifestyle1691]

Wow, you couldn't have asked for better weather. Congratulations on your first long-distance hike & camp. Being new to all this, I'd not considered the South Downs Way, but after watching, it's going on my list. Great filming & editing, thanks for sharing x

[@karenguttridge]

I was super lucky with that weather as I was dreading pitching my tent in the rain 😂 I’d definitely recommend the hike-the scenery is fab and the signposting really good. Just planning my next one!

[@Skiddastreets]

Love it! Love the walking shots too, where you walk past the camera and it pans out to wonderful landscapes. I bet you got tired of walking back for the camera! 😅 great video with some brilliant lessons!

[@karenguttridge]

Thanks for the great comment! Haha yes I must have walked so many extra miles by going back for my camera all the time 😂 Once I walked back and couldn’t even find it 🤣🤣

[@AnthonyJohnson1]

What a fab video. Always great to hear others experience of long distance trails. I walked my first long distance trail (unsuccessfully) in September and did a similar video to you reflecting on lessons learned. I’ve still picked up some a really helpful tips from your video also. Thanks for sharing. Will subscribe and check out your other videos too 🙂

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Anthony! I’ve only just spotted your lovely comment-don’t know why I missed it! I’ll definitely head over to your channel-I’m intrigued to see why your first trail didn’t work out... I think it’s always super helpful for us all to learn from these experiences! Thanks again for your comment and sub 😍👍

[@AnthonyJohnson1]

@@karenguttridge Thanks Kaz. The video on the 5 mistakes I made seemed to go down well. For some reason reason people enjoy watching others failings. Must make for better TV 😂

[@karenguttridge]

@@AnthonyJohnson1 I’ll be watching your video this afternoon 👍 and will have a look through your others when I have a bit of free time! Your channel content is just my kind of thing 😍

[@clairedennis6697]

Lovely video. So helpful too. Cant wait to get out hiking this spring. Hope you get to share more hikes soon.

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Claire-glad you found it helpful! It really is a lovely route and I’d be so much better prepared if I did it again... The thought of getting out there again is so exciting, isn’t it?! Especially in Spring 😍 I’ve just got to decide where to go first!

[@johnhorner769]

A nice relaxing account of your journey Kaz.

[@karenguttridge]

Thank you! 😊 I had an amazing time and what a super steep learning curve!!

[@kevanhubbard9673]

I've done parts of the SDW adding up to about a 1/4 but the Ridgeway and Cleveland Way are the only ones I've done completely.

[@arthurrsaker8893]

Kaz, what a beautiful video, your cinematic instincts, editing skills, and sensitivity to the essence of that idyllic landscape in its intimate detail as well as the broad sweep of it's visual impact, coupled with pleasingly evocative music, combine with your commentary to make this so enjoyably watchable. . Your gratitude and joy in the small gifts of each day seem to shine through to carry you through the uphill slogs and foot weary times you met on your way. We cannot buy that priceless attitude in any gear shop, and you have it in spades girl. Looking forward to finding more videos from you. God bless you, take care, stay safe to enjoy many many more days of your "outdoor madness".

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Arthur-what an absolutely lovely comment-it made my day! Thank you so much and I’m thrilled that you enjoyed my video 😍 I’m grateful every day for being able to explore the great outdoors; I’ve just returned from Sicily where I did some incredible trail running on Mount Etna-just WOW! Now to choose the next adventure! X

[@arthurrsaker8893]

@@karenguttridge Aahh, bless you Kaz Your Sicily jaunt: what a spectacular achievement, I'm hoping there will be lots of lovely video to enjoy when you have had time to do all the post production work that will take. I do hope you have been able to acquire, beg , borrow or even "liberate" (!) some at least light, if not ultralight, gear to allow you to enjoy, your travels without the pain, and potential damage that heavy loads inflict. How on earth did you cope with no Amberly style cake shops to inspire and motivate you on such a gruelling trek ? ! You certainly exceeded your 94% mark with this one didn't you ! Well done girl, take care, stay safe, enjoy your next odyssey wherever that may take you, and thankyou for your kind reply.

[@bobdrane5224]

Well done mate.A good watch

[@alanwetherelt7155]

A very enjoyable watch with some great advice, well edited etc

[@racheld1844]

Really enjoyed watching the whole video 😀 Hearing other people’s hiking adventures has given me so much enthusiasm to go out and try this myself. I’m a runner too so the fitness is there but oh what a change to see the views at a slower pace 🤩 Losing the camera made me laugh, I could see the baffled look as you tried to decipher where it had gone 👍 Keep up with your positive videos 🌞

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Rachel-sorry for late reply-I missed this! I absolutely love long distance and multi day hiking and I also I find that it really seems to help to give me a bit of endurance for the running. Win-win! Thanks for watching & commenting and I’m glad you enjoyed the lost phone chaos 🤣🤣

[@minecraftr298]

Im planning to do it with some friends in the summer, this is helpful, thx

[@karenguttridge]

Glad you found it helpful!

[@rossmckenzie2433]

Nice video!!! You should maybe think about getting a 9x9 DD tarp though, because it would be half the weight of your tent. The saved weight could then be used for extra food or whatever. I do a lot of wild-camping in the Scottish Highlands, where there's not a lot of food facilities, so I have to carry all the food I need from day one. Plenty of water sources though (it IS Scotland, after-all!) and my water-purification tablets do the rest. Come up sometime after this Covid madness blows-over - we'll do a trip together👍!

[@karenguttridge]

Thanks for the great advice and honestly Ross I’ve looked at tarps (for exactly the reasons you mentioned) but I’m not sure if I’m ready to let go of the tent yet-I like the extra cover around me! I’ll have to get braver... My pack weight was too heavy for me on this trip though 👍

[@mygoogleaccount3938]

Well done to you! Something I've always dreamed of doing. Thanks for sharing! Your video's very encouraging for beginners like me.

[@paddlingnorfolk6789]

Loved this, thank you for such a good insight to first time long distance trails. Looking forward to doing SDW as a solo middle aged first timer complete with heavy cheap gear myself this year.

[@karenguttridge]

Oh you’ll love it! I’m just deciding which trail I’ll do next-so many I want to do 😍 Once you’ve done your first time, you’ll know which gear you can dump! Good luck 👍

[@juliareadscottishpiperandh4861]

What a great video. I love your positivity, everything seems to be an opportunity for a 'learning lesson'. Great attitude. Thanks so much for making this. It must have taken quite a bit of extra effort. I feel really inspired by your video to get out there and do some long distance walks myself. Thankyou

[@karenguttridge]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment and I’m thrilled that you’re feeling inspired to do something similar 😍 It’s amazing how much and how fast your confidence grows after just a couple of long trails. Enjoy!

[@lew6269]

Great vid,when I walked the downs I had a map that marked all the water points,plus my advice to anyone thinking of doing it,go as light as you can,I was carrying 15 kg and it was a killer

[@karenguttridge]

I find it so hard to keep backpack weight down on a multi day but it’s so worth it if you can! I’m uploading a video tomorrow with SDW tips and I mention there marking the water taps on the map-great idea 😊👍

[@lew6269]

I'm planning on doing it again in September, but wild camp it this time , so I'm trying to find a lightweight set up ,but everything light weight is so expensive .but il get there

[@karenguttridge]

@@lew6269 September will be an amazing month to do the trail. With the wild camping I found it fairly difficult to find pitches but it can be done (usually just off trail, behind a tree!) It’s more difficult to wild camp in the summer months on the trail as it’s light for so long 😊

[@stuartjanes8586]

Enjoyed following your walk, quite an adventure, thank you for sharing. Stuart

[@karenguttridge]

Thank you for watching Stuart! 😊

[@AbcDef-cb9vx]

Hi Kaz, I loved your honesty in talking about your mistakes, they were genuinely good learning points. I am in training for the SDW myself and I plan to walk east-west so that I finish closer to home.

[@karenguttridge]

Oh great-you’ll love it-such a gorgeous trail 😍 I’m so glad you found the video useful-I definitely learn the most from the mistakes I make! When are you thinking of doing it?

[@ianbarker1959]

Super video, inspiring. Good for you 👍

[@2WeeksAYearOnTheAT]

Thank you, that was great and also very useful as I start in Winchester this Sunday!

[@karenguttridge]

Just spotted this! Have a fab time Rob-it’s such a lovely route 😍 Good luck!

[@JRenault12]

excellent tips, many thanks!

[@karenguttridge]

@@JRenault12 Glad you found it helpful and thanks for letting me know! 😃

[@kennethpatterson3325]

Great video and account of your experience, currently planning my SDW hike and I will take all of your advice into consideration.

[@karenguttridge]

Ohh you’ll love it Kenneth-it’s a beautiful trail! I actually think I’ll do it again after I’ve worked through some of the others on my list 😍 Did you also see my SDW top tips video? Just in case there’s anything of use to you there... kzbin.info/www/bejne/f53XpHdugbCBjsk

[@albert2395]

Hi, could you tell me what the music is on your South Downs trip?😊 I'm not normally into modern music, but I really like your background music! It sounds kind of ethereal.

[@andrewmatley7688]

totaly love the video foo your walk love it .

[@karenguttridge]

Thank you Andrew-really kind of you to let me know! 😃

[@steveburbidge875]

Fabulous, just started my walkings, been out 3 times, doing The Brenda Parker Way as it starts nearby. Got all the gear as been hitchhiking and motorcycle camping for years, really enjoyed video. South Downs Way is my goal, Brenda Parker Way awesome too

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Steve 😊 So glad to hear you’ve just got into all this-it’s all so fantastic! Now you’ve reminded me the Brenda Parker Way is a great trail as it’s easy to split up nicely into walking sections. Might give that a go as soon as we can get out again!

[@mattie_world]

oh i'm so happy i stumbled across your videos! lovely video style & i love your aura!! subbed!!

[@karenguttridge]

Thank you for the lovely comment! It’s great to get feedback-and this inspires me to make more videos! 🤩

[@knownbongo8531]

Lovely video

[@julieross3129]

Loved your video. How bad were the flint paths?

[@vivienmakovik8054]

I found this so inspiring and fascinating. I live in the middle of the SDW and want to walk the whole thing. I’m working on building up my stamina and will do a few overnight stays. Planning on using a tarp. I loved your attitude to everything. 👏👏👏

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Vivien-thank you for your lovely comments-I’m glad you enjoyed it! What a lovely part of the world you live in 😍 I think a tarp and bivvy (if you’re using one) would be a good idea for the SDW as it’s easier to tuck yourself away. I’d love to do the route again one day (with all I learned!) and would probably choose September again. Hope you have an amazing trip! Karen 😊

[@joshuac3576]

great advice, thankyou

[@DavidWilsonOutandAbout]

Hi Kaz. An excellent video and I appreciate all the work that goes into recording, vlogging, and the post-production of multi-day trips. The SDW is on my bucket list being as I live in Kent, I had planned to do it in late autumn 2020 after my kayak camping trip in Scotland, but Tier 4 and the 2nd lockdown scuppered those plans. O well, let's hope that we can all get out and about enjoying our outdoor pursuits soon. ATB, Dave. 👍

[@karenguttridge]

Thanks for your lovely comments Dave! 😃 It does look like we can all be released again soon 👍 I’m trying to decide where to go that won’t be super busy-mission impossible 😂

[@DavidWilsonOutandAbout]

@@karenguttridge Yes, it will be far busier this year until things settle down a bit. I am semi-retired now so at least I can go hiking and camping during the week and during term time which tends to keep the numbers down a bit. I will be getting out for a couple of overnighters next month to try and test out some new kit before 9 days in the Lake District kayaking, camping, with an overnight wild camp at the summit of The Old Man of Coniston. Summer will be manic for sure but come autumn which I feel is the best season, hopefully, things will have quietened down somewhat. 😃

[@karenguttridge]

@@DavidWilsonOutandAbout I’ve just spotted the kayaking videos on your channel 😍 Definitely love to watch those and your upcoming trip sounds amazing.. I used to sea kayak quite a bit and had plans to kayak around Cyprus with a friend. COVID messed that up a bit!

[@DavidWilsonOutandAbout]

@@karenguttridge Most are of the local rivers (Medway & Stour) due to the restriction, although I did get up to Loch Lubnaig in Scotland last August. I was into canoeing and sailing in my teen and rekindled my interest in it back in 2017 which has now (nearly 50 years later) got me back into hiking and camping as well. Life has a habit of going full circle, although the pace of the activities is much calmer and slower now 🤣. Hope you enjoy them 👍

[@boshebosh9269]

Great video. I'm taking the SDW next week on the MTB over 3 days. I had a rest ride with all my gear recently and have over packed.

[@karenguttridge]

Glad you enjoyed the video! You’ll have such a fab time-it’s a great trail 😍 I think we all overpack at first-it feels odd to go off for days and take hardly anything! I’m much better at it now-have reduced it all right down 👍 Have fun next week! 😃

[@charliecheesecake7074]

I am currently waiting for my Vango tent to arrive along with a few other basic camping items so I can start my wild camping adventure. I am so excited! I will be camping in my garden to test my kit initially. Loving your videos.

[@karenguttridge]

Ooo how exciting, definitely! I can’t recommend it enough-you get better at everything as you go. I still make mistakes.. and probably always will! 🤣

[@Mondro26]

Amazing, so inspiring! Thank you for sharing

[@karenguttridge]

I’m so glad you enjoyed it and thanks for letting me know!

[@fiizzy3884]

I really enjoyed watching this, thank you

[@karenguttridge]

Thank YOU for watching and commenting to let me know you enjoyed it! 😃

[@mattsmith3309]

Lovely journal. You did it... Completed it... Enjoyed it... What's "wrong" with that? Well Done :)

[@karenguttridge]

Thank you Matt! That’s a great way to look at it 😃 And I did love it! 👍

[@johnho2006]

Well done on a great video for Oct, now Christmas is 72 days away, you could make a gear wish list on ultralight outdoor gear uk and drop a subtle hint to family , and say, want some hints on what i really would like for a ultralight Christmas,

[@karenguttridge]

I’m doing this!! Thanks for the idea 🤣 It’s going to be a long list!

[@ianl4518]

Hi Kaz, I'm running the SDW100 on June 12th, hoping for sub 27hrs. I found your video very useful and really interesting.

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Ian-I’m glad the video was helpful to you and WOW fantastic-are you doing that with Centurion? I really wanted to do the SDW50 but now saving it for next year! Sending you loads of luck-what an amazing challenge and time goal! 👏👏⭐️

[@ianl4518]

@@karenguttridge Thanks Kaz. Yes with Centurion. (I live in Winchester). I've not done their races before but I'm also doing Wendover Woods 50 in Nov. (and Arc of Attrition in Jan but that's another story). I familiar with the SDW from Arundel to Winch, as I did Race to the King but it's the other end I am not sure of. Looks like a lot of the hills are in the 2nd half?

[@karenguttridge]

@@ianl4518 Yes-of the 100 miles of the SDW the hilliest bits are definitely towards the Eastbourne end. As you saw my backpack was too heavy for me really so that hampered me. I’ll love to trail run it with a fast pack! 😍 I was down for Race to the Stones this year but have deferred til next year. You’ve got a fab list of ultras to do there! I haven’t entered much yet as I’m waiting for COVID to finally GET LOST 🤣 What vest/pack will you be wearing? I have a 10L Ultimate Direction one and a 25L Raidlight one for different race lengths. I’m not far from you-I run a lot in the New Forest 😊 Karen

[@ianl4518]

@@karenguttridge I hear you on the COVID bit, I'm just about done with it myself but we carry on! I also forgot mention Endure 24 in July (deferred from last year) and the unfortunately named The Plague 64 miler in Aug. (I have my UTMB points but need to 'top up'). Interesting question re packs. I have the Salomon S-Lab 5, which I use for training and summer stuff but SDW has some mandatory kit requirements, so I've just taken delivery of the Salomon Adv Skin 12 but have not used it yet. My theory is that a slightly bigger pack is more comfy that an a smaller one stuffed to the gills. I also have the Salomon pole quiver bag that attaches to the outside, that works well with my Leki Carbon Pro poles (very light). I will probably use the 12 set but will test in the next couple of weeks. I also have a 20ltr OMM bag that is more like a proper backpack which I use for MTB but it is only bladder capable. I think a good 10ltr bag covers most situations. The NF is lovely!

[@karenguttridge]

@@ianl4518 I really want a Salomon pack but trying to keep going with my current ones at the mo. I agree totally that having a slightly roomier vest is the way to go. If I cram my vest with too much not only is it more uncomfortable to wear, it’s also much more difficult to prise things out of it! And my malt loaf gets super squashed and we can’t be having that 😂 I’d love to know how all your ultras go-super interesting! Are you blogging or anything?

[@vetirun2884]

Great video and the weather held out

[@karenguttridge]

Thank you and wow wasn’t I lucky with that weather?! I kept waiting to be soaked and it never happened!

[@vetirun2884]

@@karenguttridge unlike me who keep tiling my runs wrong,oveky when I leave the house. Pissing doen half way round 😂

[@sylviawinstead8799]

Kaz, I’m halfway thru your video and I’m so amazed how far you’ve hiked. I haven’t the courage to do what you’re doing but I’m dying inside to try. How many miles are you walking per day and how much does your pack weight?? I bought all Ultra Lite gear which cost a Fortune and have nothing to stop me but Fear! Your amazing

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Sylvia I walked between 12 and 18 miles a day depending on where food/places to stay were. The longer distances were tough with the hills and my pack which weighed well over 30 pounds. I don’t have ultralight gear yet but can’t wait to start getting some!

[@sylviawinstead8799]

@@karenguttridge wow! My max is 6 miles but I can push myself. When this pandemic is all over I’d love to fly over and do a hike with you. I should be able to do more miles by then!!

[@karenguttridge]

@@sylviawinstead8799 Wow what fun that would be! Let’s hope England is ready for us 🤣🤣

[@RobboOutdoors]

G'day from Australia. I am doing the SDW in September 23. I have completed an itinerary but only with pub stays but my preference is to camp. I appreciate a bit of work but by any chance do you have a route location itinerary and accommodation list as they all look great and may swing my confidence in camping. Hopefully the weather is ok in September and not too crowded. Thanks again :) PS- i sent this at 38:51 in your video, just as you say you are staying at hostels but if you could perhaps give me the first 3 stops campsites it would be great!

[@karenguttridge]

Hi! Day One I camped in a farmers field outside Exton. I just cannot remember the name of it right now but I’ll let you know when it comes to me! Although to be honest I probably wouldn’t recommend it-it was a lovely pitch and only me in the whole field but it was quite a walk down a busy road to get to it. I think you could find better. Day Two was the sustainability centre which was great www.sustainability-centre.org/ The site at 33 mins in the video (the wooden hut) was at Manor Farm, Cocking. manorfarmcocking.co.uk/camping.html It’s right on the trail and you can camp there too. One day I stayed in a B&B so I could recharge all my tech etc. A few hikers highly recommended Foxleigh Barn in Amberley which is on trail too. www.amberleystores.co.uk/foxleigh-barn/ I did a couple of wild camps but I struggled to find suitable spots so ended up behind bushes not far off the path. Not ideal. I also stayed here at the hostel which was fab www.yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-south-downs I think that’s it... Happy to answer any questions at all!

[@RobboOutdoors]

@@karenguttridge Thank you that's so helpful. The Manor Farm will be locked in soon when I work out my dates and days breakdown. When you can could you just let me know your day breakdown if possible like below? 1. Winchester to Exton 2. Exton to Sustainability centre 3. 4. 5. 6. Sorry to be a pain but its my first real multi day hike Thanks again

[@karenguttridge]

@@RobboOutdoors I’m trying to remember exactly how I did it but I don’t recall the wild camp locations. However it was roughly this: Winchester-(near) Exton Exton-Sustainability Centre Sustainability Centre-Cocking (I’m sure I camped halfway) Cocking-Amberley Amberley-Steyning Steyning-Lewes Lewes-Eastbourne

[@RobboOutdoors]

@@karenguttridge no that's great thank you that will let me plan and do some research. I am happy to mix it up a bit and as you say have a treat now and again. Thanks so much for your help!

[@crazyjcdb]

Lovely vid. Thanks.

[@karenguttridge]

Thank YOU for watching! 😃

[@amusedcouple]

Hi. Well done kaz. May I know the name of the thing which you ate at the starting of the video. I am new to UK I have seen such trees many time and unsure whether to eat those. TIA

[@karenguttridge]

Hi! Yes they were blackberries and you’ll see them around in September/October in UK. You’re right to be careful about eating berries though-I think you can get an app on your phone to help identify them 😊

[@sadielovegrove8595]

Hi, where was the shepherds hut please?

[@karenguttridge]

Hi! Here you go :) manorfarmcocking.co.uk/hutcabin.html

[@AGirlGoneWild]

What a lovely trip! Well done.Although hot the weather was great and how nice was it of the lady to look after your kit...brilliant. 👍👏😁

[@karenguttridge]

I was pretty nervous starting that hike as my first solo but I’m so glad I did it as I’m feeling much more confident about solo adventures now 😍

[@AGirlGoneWild]

@@karenguttridge I completely understand I'm planning on doing the west highland way after lockdown so it will be my first multi day solo hike...plus my imagination tends to run away with in the dark lol but watching ladies like you is inspiring.👍👏

[@karenguttridge]

@@AGirlGoneWild I’ve definitely got the West Highland Way on my bucket list! A friend who lives near the trail advised going in late spring or autumn when the midges are less active.. I think we all get a little spooked once night falls but the more you get out there on your own then you will relax more-never completely but that’s not a bad thing as it’s good to be a little bit alert. Waking up in your tent in the early morning and putting the coffee on is such a good feeling-you’ve got through another night and all was fine!

[@AGirlGoneWild]

@@karenguttridge very true Kaz the more it's done the more confidence. I'm hoping to in May just incase theres another lockdown.

[@karenguttridge]

@@AGirlGoneWild May would be perfect. Let’s 🤞

[@Andy-LucyGSD]

Lovely video. I did the walk September 2020 over 4 days and loved every minute of it. One of my favourite walks.

[@karenguttridge]

Yes I’d love to do it again 😃 But I have quite a list of others to work through first! 🤣

[@paulsoutdooradventures1790]

Hi could u plz add name and locations to the campsites that u stayed at especially at the min 33 of this video any google links u could add to ur discription would be of great help plz thankyou as I am doing this walk with my 13year old boy after lockdown. Has eased off and safe to do so

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Paul. What a great trip to look forward to! Here’s some of the info: Day One I camped in a farmers field outside Exton. I just cannot remember the name of it right now but I’ll let you know when it comes to me! Although to be honest I probably wouldn’t recommend it-it was a lovely pitch and only me in the whole field but it was quite a walk down a busy road to get to it. I think you could find better. Day Two was the sustainability centre which was great www.sustainability-centre.org/ The site at 33 mins in the video (the wooden hut) was at Manor Farm, Cocking. manorfarmcocking.co.uk/camping.html It’s right on the trail and you can camp there too. One day I stayed in a B&B so I could recharge all my tech etc. A few hikers highly recommended Foxleigh Barn in Amberley which is on trail too. www.amberleystores.co.uk/foxleigh-barn/ I did a couple of wild camps but I struggled to find suitable spots so ended up behind bushes not far off the path. Not ideal. I also stayed here at the hostel which was fab www.yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-south-downs I think that’s it... Happy to answer any questions at all!

[@ArthurDayne_SOTM]

good on you girl !!!!

[@karenguttridge]

Thank you!! 😃

[@suzishanka570]

Lovely video :)

[@karenguttridge]

Thank you for letting me know you enjoyed it! 😃

[@suzishanka570]

@@karenguttridge I'm still watching it :) I'm finding it very peaceful and makes me want to get out there! I live right near the south downs :)

[@karenguttridge]

@@suzishanka570 Ooo I had such a wonderful time! I’d do it again right now if I didn’t have a list of other trails I’m dying to do 🤣 Such a beautiful part of the country and doing it by myself gave me lots of peace and solitude 😊

[@suzishanka570]

@@karenguttridge I would love to do it! But I'm scared to do it on my own but maybe one day, I'm just getting in to walking so let's see!

[@karenguttridge]

@@suzishanka570 I do understand. I used to be fearful of doing things like this alone but I decided to finally go for it when I realised my fears were stopping me doing so many things I wanted to do. It’s been absolutely fine. I plan as much as I can and try and minimise risks then just go for it 😊

[@jmck4974]

What did you use to video your journey please

[@karenguttridge]

Hi! I used a GoPro Hero 7 😊

[@thecampingastronomer8554]

That was a lovely relaxing video, really enjoyed it. I have a Vango tent and reckon value for money wise they are hard to beat. If you watch my Gourmet Wild Camp video you'll see me moaning about the weight of my pack, but then I like some luxuries and space as is evident in the video. I have now started to use down sleeping bags as they are a lot lighter than synthetic ones and pack down much smaller. OEX currently do some at bargain prices if you want to reduce weight there. Your sleeping mat could probably be a lot lighter, but it's easy to spend lots of money on these if you are not careful. Once again, cracking video, thanks for sharing 🙂

[@karenguttridge]

Thank you! A down sleeping bag is on my list to Santa so 🤞🤞 I also want a Thermarest mat and I’m trying to slowly upgrade all my gear. Everything I want is expensive! 😂

[@thecampingastronomer8554]

@@karenguttridge Santa's is bringing me an OEX Leviathan sleeping bag. It goes down to -9 degrees easily (that translates to -7 for me based on my experience) and was a bit over £100, around half the price of other similar down bags.

[@karenguttridge]

@@thecampingastronomer8554 I’m jealous!!

[@ExpeditionHiker]

Hi did you do the walk this year?

[@karenguttridge]

Yes 😊 In September-it was so hot!

[@ExpeditionHiker]

@@karenguttridge I walked it last year, back to back with the Pilgrims Way to Canterbury, both videos still editing them

[@martinab8400]

Hi ,did you book the pitches in advance ?looks empty.Thanks

[@karenguttridge]

Hi! The trail and accommodation were pretty empty when I did it as it was just after a lockdown. I did book ahead and I would always do that if I did it again. It’s a popular route and-for me-at the end of a tiring day I just want to know where I’m going for the night! 😊

[@martinab8400]

@@karenguttridge Thanks. Nice and helpful video.Wish you all the best.

[@turkeyphant]

How much did your backpack weigh?

[@karenguttridge]

I weighed it before I left but without the food and water. This wasn’t the best idea as that stuff adds so much weight! It was 16kg. So once I added food and water... ugh. It was a good lesson! 😊👍

[@WalksWithOlly]

Thanks for sharing your experienes, Kaz. I do feel a lot of people underestimate the South Downs Way. Water taps can be an issue but the constant chalk downs will destroy a person's feet, along with the route's daily undulations (I also made a wrong turn near Winchester on that first day ;-) ). Do you have plans to walk any other trails, when we're allowed?

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Olly-I agree as I think the SDW is viewed as relatively easy. It’s not! I absolutely loved it but it did teach me lots of lessons 😊 I can’t wait to get out there hiking again 😍 I have lots on my list but pretty soon I’d love to tackle Hadrian’s Wall, The Cotswold Way (I’d like to go if possible when the bluebells are out) and perhaps the West Highland Way as it would be lovely to have no wild camping issues! I bet you’ve got a list waiting too? 😃

[@WalksWithOlly]

@@karenguttridge That's good to hear. I've covered most of the Cotswold Way but still need to tick off the northern section. Also keen on the WHW but my priority is the Cleveland Way, which I was going to do last year... :-)

[@karenguttridge]

@@WalksWithOlly Ooo yes-keen to do the Cleveland Way too and the Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path-I do love a few sea views on my hikes! I wonder how packed these trails will be when everything opens up..? 🤔 Wondering if it might be best to start with lesser known ones...

[@jamielittlewood7103]

Best advice you’ll get.... use a baggage transfer company. They pick your bag up on a morning and take it where you’re staying the following night so you only need your day pack when hiking. It makes it much more pleasurable, which surly is the aim of the game.

[@karenguttridge]

This is a great and very enjoyable way to do a trail Jamie 👍 However as I’m carrying my tent etc I often don’t know where I’ll be staying each night -I just look for somewhere as I’m hiking. Thanks though for the input! 😃

[@OldtricksForolddog]

Fantastic 🫡..i need tge name of that friendly farmer,,im of on sdw on Wednesday next week

[@karenguttridge]

@OldtricksForolddog Glad you enjoyed it! Oh my-I’m trying to think who and where that farmer was now..!..

[@OldtricksForolddog]

@karenguttridge it would really help me 👌🫡💐

[@mreilly1325]

Hi Karen you make a great presenter and brilliant volg hope to see a lots more. A good KZbinr to watch for lite cheep kit is @GrizzlyGaz iv got tent sleeping bag and cook set and i love them

[@karenguttridge]

Thank you for your lovely comment and advice!