Thumbcandy, I tended to cycle loops along the South Downs heading west so not too familiar (ie not at all!) with the north downs. Next time you're at QECP, have a run up Butser hill. If you make it up in one go, you're doing fine! Are you a fast runner, or a plodder like my good self? If you fancy a plod round, let us know when you come up, I'm sure we can sort out a bit of a recce.