South Downs National Park
South Downs Way: your ultimate guide to the walk
Looking for an adventure? An intoxicating mix of rolling downland, sleepy hamlets and wave-hewn cliffs makes the South Downs Way one of Britain’s most romantic long-distance walks. Learn all about the trail with BBC Countryfile Magazine's six-day guide to the South Downs Way.
Best walks in the South Downs National Park
From the chalk streams of Hampshire to the towering cliffs of East Sussex, here is our guide pick of the best walks in the South Downs National Park.
Walk: Devil’s Dyke, Sussex
Explore a rare chalk grassland – as rich in myth and legend as it is in wildlife and far-reaching views – on this 4.3-mile circular walk in the South Downs.
Discovering history and mystery in Kingley Vale in the South Downs
Explore the yew forests, wildflower meadows and hidden history of Kingley Vale, West Sussex. Poet Hugh Dunkerley hosts episode 6 of season 10 of the BBC Countryfile Magazine podcast
Walk: Firle Beacon, East Sussex
A long and invigorating walk in the South Downs National Park from the lively town of Lewes, via the impressive Mount Caburn, Firle Beacon and Itford Hill, to the historic village of Rodmell.
Walk: Cuckmere River, East Sussex
Follow this seven-mile walk along the Cuckmere River, from the picturesque village of Alfriston to the monumental Seven Sisters chalk cliffs on the Sussex south coast
Walk: Meon Valley, Hampshire
Discover a landscape shaped by man and nature over 6,000 years on a walk that enters the heart of the South Downs National Park in Hampshire.
Walk: Wilmington to Alfriston, Sussex
A short walk to the Long Man of Wilmington, the mysterious chalk figure on the South Downs. But how exactly did he get there?
Walk: North Marden to East Marden, West Sussex
Walk through a tranquil landscape of ancient field patterns, Norman churches and wooded hills in the South Downs National Park.
Podcast: The battle to improve our national parks
Listen to a fascinating discussion with Corinne Pluchino of the Campaign for National Parks on what can be done to improve our national parks for wildlife – and people in this week's podcast episode.
Camber Sands, East Sussex
Beat the traffic by arriving at this dune-backed sandy beach by bike in a gentle ride across Romney Marsh to Camber Sands.
Day out: Chanctonbury Ring, West Sussex
Fables of the Devil and curious cults proliferate in this enclave of the South Downs National Park, a landscape roamed by majestic raptors and hooting owls
Best walks in East Sussex
Hike over spectacular clifftops, across pebble beaches and alongside meandering rivers with our favourite East Sussex hikes
Guide to West Sussex: where to visit, stay, eat and walk
Explore the rolling chalk-hills, captivating coastline and fascinating history of West Sussex with our guide on the best places to visit, our favourite walks and where to stay and eat
UNESCO Biosphere status for Brighton and Lewes Downs
UNESCO has recognised the Brighton and Lewes downs as a Biosphere, making it the UK’s first new Biosphere Reserve in 40 years.
Arundel Wetland Centre, West Sussex
Julia Bradbury goes on the trail of the elusive water vole that’s found paradise in a corner of Sussex
Eastbourne and Beachy Head, East Sussex
Stroll from the genteel resort of Eastbourne to the giddy heights of Beachy Head
Long Man of Wilmington, East Sussex
Ancient or not, the Long Man is a figure of mystery and wonder. Discover his land on this delightful stroll.
Visit Chawton: Places to stay, things to do
Nestled in the rolling hills of Hampshire, Tiffany Francis explores the small village of Chawton, enriched with social and literary history, and abundant in postcard-perfect flora and fauna.
Beachy Head, East Sussex
Leave Eastbourne to trace one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline in the country
Britain's newest national park: South Downs
As the area celebrates its new-found national park status, we look at how the designation will shape the future of the stunning the South Downs.
