The South Downs Way stretches 100 miles from Winchester to Eastbourne, following the chalk ridgeline of southern England through one of its most walkable and evocative landscapes. This is a trail of light, air, and distance — where rolling hills, dry valleys, and historic trackways lead to the sea.
It’s one of the most accessible National Trails in England, ideal for self-guided walking holidays thanks to good infrastructure, gentle terrain, and far-reaching views. But it’s more than just a well-marked route — this is a journey through deep time, linking prehistoric barrows and Iron Age forts with flint villages and medieval churches.
Distance: 100 miles (160 km)
Start Point: Winchester, Hampshire
End Point: Eastbourne, East Sussex
Time Required: 7 to 9 days
Highest Point: Butser Hill (270 m / 886 ft)
Waymarking: Acorn symbol (National Trail)
Terrain: Chalk downland, ridges, valleys, woodlands, and coastal cliffs
Accessibility: Well-marked and maintained; suitable for most walkers, including those new to long-distance trails
Begin in Winchester, once the capital of Anglo-Saxon England, and walk east across high ground scattered with wildflowers, sheep pastures, and ancient yew trees. The trail undulates over the chalk spine of the downs, skirting farm valleys, wooded hangers, and open ridges.
Pass through peaceful stretches of the Meon Valley, past Old Winchester Hill and Harting Down, then descend to riverside villages like Amberley before climbing again to cross the Arun Valley. The landscape becomes more open as you approach Devil’s Dyke and Ditchling Beacon, where the views stretch across the Weald to the English Channel.
The final miles trace the dramatic Seven Sisters cliffs, ending in Eastbourne at the edge of the sea — a finish as beautiful as it is iconic.
Accommodation is easy to find along the South Downs Way, with well-spaced inns, B&Bs, pubs, and rural cottages welcoming walkers at every stage. Base yourself in Lewes, Petersfield, or Arundel for off-trail exploring and good transport links.
Many walkers choose to split the route into manageable sections — walking from village to village with luggage transfers, or choosing one central base and walking day stages. Off the path, explore chalk streams, vineyards, ancient hill figures, and nature reserves filled with orchids, skylarks, and rare butterflies.
Whether you walk the full trail or just a stretch, the South Downs Way offers a peaceful, light-filled journey through one of England’s most timeless walking landscapes.
