South Downs

Published on 1 min read

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Established in 2009, the South Downs is England’s newest National Park and is a cluster of fantastic market towns, rolling hills and flourishing ancient forests. The South Downs is famous for its traditional villages and thriving towns of Chichester, Midhurst and Winchester – all packed with history, culture and fantastic architecture.

This National Park is also home to the iconic chalky white cliffs of the Seven sisters and the South Downs way – famous among hikers – stretching the entirety if the National Park. When you visit, don’t forget the highlights of Arundel castle, the Queen Elizabeth Country Park and the 270 metres high buster hill – which make fantastic key points of these beautiful downs, and also a feature for it being the most visited in England.

Top South Downs National Park articles

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King Alfred's Way Route

Cycling King Alfred’s Way

April 8, 2024
10 min read

The King Alfred’s Way is a 350km circular off-road cycling route that will take you back in time. Combining beautiful rural scenery with some of Britain’s most iconic historic sites and four National Trails this ride makes a great bikepacking adventure.

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St Catherine’s Hill, Winchester walking route on map

St Catherine’s Hill, Winchester

April 8, 2024
3 min read

Topped with the remains of an iron-age fort, this short walk just outside Winchester gives great views across the area.

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Three of the best cycling routes in the south downs

November 17, 2016
7 min read

Whether you’re looking for family friendly rides or challenging endurance rides, there’s something for everyone in the stunning South Downs National Park.

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A range of mountains over the lake

Places to visit in The South Downs

July 28, 2016
4 min read

The South Downs National Park is home to four bustling market towns as well as numerous picturesque villages and sleepy hamlets that make great bases for a visit.

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A range of mountains over the lake

Six easy south downs circular walks

July 22, 2016
3 min read

Six easy circular walks to follow if you are visiting the South Downs. All easy to reach by bus or train if you fancy leaving the car behind.

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All about the south downs way

July 28, 2015
6 min read

Situated between Eastbourne and Winchester, the South Downs Way is a designated National Trail which meanders 101 miles through some of Sussex and Hampshire’s most stunning countryside.

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