From the Wild to West Sussex - Hike with a Real Adventurer
Lucy Shepherd x Gutsy Girls Hike - 12 April 2026
On Sunday 12 April, we'll be joined by explorer Lucy Shepherd on the Balcombe Loop for a special day out to celebrate the launch of her debut book, Into the Wild.
Despite all Lucy’s incredible achievements, she’s also a firm believer that sometimes you don't need a week off, a passport, or impressive fitness levels to have a genuinely good adventure. Sometimes you just need a pair of boots, a packed lunch, and a train out of the city.
Who is Lucy Shepherd?
Lucy Shepherd is one of the most compelling explorers of her generation. The Times called her "the most hardcore member of the new generation of British explorers" - a title she’s definitely earned. Her incredible list of achievements so far include; leading a world-first expedition across Guyana's Kanuku Mountains from east to west, navigating the Amazon rainforest alongside a team of Amerindians, co-leading annual expeditions to the Arctic in Northern Norway and Svalbard, and a recce trip of the Aberdare Range in Kenya.
Known for her Channel 4 series Secret Amazon: Into the Wild, and with a new Secret Africa series due in 2026, her stories explore resilience, friendship and the idea that life is there to be lived. She's also genuinely funny, warm and completely down to earth - which is why we think she'll fit right in on one of our day hikes!
The Walk
The Balcombe Loop | 17km | Sunday 12 April
Meet at Balcombe train station at 10am
Woodland, farmland, the Ouse Valley Viaduct and the banks of Ardingly Reservoir - this is a proper day out in the West Sussex countryside. It's a full day on your feet, but the terrain is gentler than it sounds, with gradual hills and plenty of flat stretches.
The hike ends back in Balcombe, with a chance to chill out in a café or pub garden for those who want to.
To bring:
Hiking boots with proper grip are non-negotiable (leave your Converse firmly at home).
Packed lunch
Water and snacks
Sunscreen and sun hat (we’re hoping for good weather!)
Getting there: There are regular trains from London Bridge to Balcombe station - easy.
So why not spend a day in the Chilterns with an explorer who's navigated the Amazon? Into the Wild promises to be an amazing read and Lucy will be able to answer any and all your questions about her adventures.
Spaces are only £25 per person.
Into the Wild by Lucy Shepherd is published by Penguin Books Ltd on 16/04/2026
