The South Downs, famous for its rolling hills, ancient woodlands, chalk cliffs and unique market towns, has everything you could ever want for glorious day trips and perfect holidays alike.
Why do people visit South Downs?
The South Downs National Park has it all – rolling hills, glorious heathland, river valleys, ancient woodland, thriving villages and market towns, and the iconic white cliffs of the Heritage Coast.
What is the best part of the South Downs Way?
Five of the best “wow” spots in England’s South Downs
- Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex.
- Kingley Vale, near Chichester, West Sussex.
- Stargazing at Butser Hill, near Petersfield, Hampshire.
- Cissbury Ring, near Worthing, West Sussex.
- Blackdown Hill, West Sussex.
What is there at the South Downs?
Some top-rated attractions and activities along the South Downs Way include:
- Winchester Cathedral.
- Amberley Working Museum.
- Weald & Downland Museum.
- Bignor Roman Villa.
- Arundel Castle.
- Parham House & Gardens.
- West Dean Gardens.
Can you drive on the South Downs Way?
Situated in a busy part of the United Kingdom, driving through parts of the South Downs can become congested, especially at busy times. It’s for this reason we encourage visitors to use public transport where possible.
Is the South Downs nice?
The South Downs, famous for its rolling hills, ancient woodlands, chalk cliffs and unique market towns, has everything you could ever want for glorious day trips and perfect holidays alike.
How long is the South Downs walk?
100 mile
The 100 mile (160 Km) long South Downs Way follows the old routes and droveways along the chalk escarpment and ridges of the South Downs. Enjoy the stunning long distance views, picturesque villages, thatched pubs and cosy tea rooms.
How difficult is the South Downs Way?
The SDW is a low difficulty trail. There are plenty of hills but there is nothing technically difficult about walking up and down them.
Is the South Downs Way easy to follow?
Exploring the Trail
Anyone who is reasonably fit can walk the South Downs Way – if you can comfortably walk say 12 miles (20km) in a day you shouldn’t have a problem. The National Trail is very well way-marked so following the route is easy. But it is always a good idea to take a guidebook or map.
Is the South Downs Way muddy?
The walk follows chalk tracks and paths for the main, which can get very muddy and slippery after wet weather. There is a fairly steep and long climb near the start and the equivalent descent towards the end.
Where should I stay when walking the South Downs Way?
Hostels and bunkhouses. There are several YHA hostels on, or near the South Downs Way, although mostly in the eastern section of the route. There’s also an independent hostel. Sustainability Centre, East Meon – a couple of miles on from Exton and right next to the South Downs Way, The Sustainability Centre.
Can you walk the South Downs?
South Downs Way
This 100 mile (160km) route follows old tracks and drove ways along the ridge of the chalk Downs; from the cathedral city of Winchester in the west to the seaside town of Eastbourne in the east. The distinctive chalk and flint route is easy to follow and usually firm under foot.
Is the South Downs Way hilly?
The South Downs Way is a hilly but rewarding route for walkers and mountain bikers.
Do you need a mountain bike for South Downs Way?
The 100-mile trail is steeply undulating and tough for the occasional off-road rider like me, with 3,810 metres of climbing. A mountain bike is a must, with at least front suspension and preferably rear as well. Further info: nationaltrail.co.uk/south-downs-way.
What villages are in the South Downs?
South Downs Towns & Villages in Hampshire
- Petersfield.
- Chawton.
- Bishop’s Waltham.
- Liss.
- Selborne.
- Hambledon.
- Bordon.
- Liphook.
Where can I park in South Downs?
Parking Information for the South Downs, Sussex
In the area that we visited there are two car parks actually on the Downs. One is about a mile to the east of Firle Beacon on Bostal Hill (Map) and the other is just over a mile to the west of Firle Beacon (Map). Both are on the top of the ridge and both are free.
Is Eastbourne beautiful?
Breathe in that fresh sea air as you approach the beautiful coastal town of Eastbourne, famous for its lush rolling landscapes, stunning beaches and iconic chalk sea cliffs.
How many wineries are in South Downs National Park?
The national park, which stretches 87 miles from Beachy Head in East Sussex to Winchester in Hampshire has been home to winemakers since Roman times – and currently has 51 vineyards and 11 wineries.
Is Crawley in the South Downs?
The distance between Crawley and South Downs National Park is 34 miles. The road distance is 41 miles. How do I travel from Crawley to South Downs National Park without a car? The best way to get from Crawley to South Downs National Park without a car is to train which takes 1h 38m and costs £19 – £50.
How long does the 7 sisters walk take?
about 6 hours
This walk is just under 8 miles / 13km in length and should take about 6 hours to walk. The walk can be started from public transport using bus route 12 / 13 stopping at Exceat (Sieven Sisters Country Park), East Dean Village or Birling Gap.
How far can you walk in a day?
Trained Walkers
That suggests that If a walker is well-trained and takes breaks, they can walk 20 miles in a day. If a walker doesn’t take breaks and is going fast, they may be able to cover 30 miles in a day.