Where wide skies meet sweeping hills, and ancient paths connect historic towns.
The South Downs National Park, spanning Hampshire, West Sussex, and East Sussex, is one of England’s most iconic landscapes for walking holidays and outdoor adventures. Known for its chalk escarpments, dry valleys, and far-reaching views, the park stretches from the historic city of Winchester to the dramatic cliffs at Eastbourne. At its heart lies the South Downs Way, one of the UK’s most celebrated National Trails, offering ridge-top walking across open downs, ancient woodland, and picture-perfect villages.
Walking here might mean climbing to the Iron Age fort at Chanctonbury Ring, tracing riverside paths along the Arun and Ouse, or exploring market towns like Lewes, Petersfield, and Midhurst. With its mix of chalk hills, cultural heritage, and easy access from London and the south coast, the South Downs is a perfect destination for both short escapes and longer self-guided walking holidays.
South Downs Way
A 100-mile National Trail from Winchester to Eastbourne, offering chalk ridge walking, panoramic sea views, and links to historic towns and villages.
Devil’s Dyke Circular
A classic downland loop near Brighton, with sweeping escarpment views, dry valleys, and ancient earthworks.
Arun Valley Walks
Riverside routes near Arundel, combining wetlands, historic castles, and rolling downland scenery.
Lewes to Alfriston
A ridge walk along the eastern South Downs, with historic towns, chalk grassland, and views towards the sea.
The South Downs Way is the park’s defining trail, running its entire length from Winchester to Eastbourne.
Yes — popular choices include Devil’s Dyke, Ditchling Beacon, and riverside loops along the Arun and Ouse valleys.
Absolutely — train stations at Lewes, Petersfield, Amberley, and Eastbourne link directly to trails.
Lewes, Midhurst, Petersfield, Arundel, and Winchester all make excellent walking hubs.
Spring for wildflowers, summer for long ridge walks, autumn for woodland colours, and winter for crisp views across the downs.
