Hilaire Belloc was a prolific writer, who, over the course of fifty years, produced works of fiction, verse, political polemic, history, travelogue and religious tract. His book, The Path to Rome, is often cited as his most important work. But his renowned 1911 novel, The Four Men: A Farrago is a very different book. It is confined to the much smaller geographical area than The Path to Rome – the county of Sussex. Yet, at the same time it journeys much further than The Path to Rome – exploring the mystical and unseen world and the destiny of man. Belloc’s chosen vehicle for this odyssey is the chance meeting of four men.
One of our trustees and walks leader, David Green, has designed a linear walk called the ‘Belloc Way‘. The route draws inspiration from The Four Men. The novel recounts the journey of four men who embark on a 90-mile pilgrimage across Sussex, starting from Robertsbridge in the east and concluding at South Harting in the west. Along their path, they encounter various points of interest and engage in sharing stories, songs, jokes, and reflections on life, history, and culture. These travelling companions never reveal their real names but confer on each other descriptive epithets that most clearly describe their personalities.
The Belloc Way walk will take place over six days during the first two weeks of August 2023. Here’s a link to our Walks programme. While four committed regular walkers have pledged to complete the entire route, we warmly welcome other participants to join them for individual legs of the journey. This will provide an opportunity to learn more about Belloc’s remarkable life and his significant contributions to the literary world.
Each of the six stages of the Belloc Way are between 15 and 17 miles. Would you like to come along? We invite experienced walkers to join us for a taster walk on this journey. You may learn more about Hilaire Belloc and The Four Men and you will see the benefits of becoming a member of the Friends of the South Downs.
We are the only membership organisation dedicated to protecting the South Downs. We offer over 200 walks and strolls for varied fitness levels throughout the year. But we are more than just a walking club.
We make a difference on the South Downs:
- With our body of District Officers throughout East Sussex, West Sussex and Hampshire who submit articulate, informed responses to planning applications which ensure that the Park is protected whilst allowing sensible projects
- By raising the profile of the park through regular talks, publicity and programmes for children.
- Through physical projects, including benches along the South Downs Way, replacing stiles with kissing gates, rebuilding part of the South Downs Way and planting trees
Membership starts for as little as £2.50 a month. If you have any questions or would like to volunteer, please contact us for more information.
