WALKING HOLIDAYS IN THE SOUTH DOWNS
The South Downs is England’s newest national park having only been bestowed the status in 2010. It was this rich landscape which inspired William Blake to pen the words to Jerusalem, the countryside views are as gorgeous as you’d imagine. Ancient woodland, hidden valleys, chalky cliffs, and high-backed hills welcome visitors to what’s fondly known as the gateway to England.
What to expect on a self guided walking holiday in South Downs
Scenery-packed walking routes
There are plenty of walking opportunities around the South Downs National Park that will leave you speechless. Trek the 100-mile long South Downs Way and you’ll journey from the Saxon capital of Winchester, through wildflower-carpeted lowland heaths all the way to the chalky ridges of the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head – a wall of gleaming white sea cliffs that look out across the English Channel.
The views from atop the V-shaped valley at Devil's Dyke are equally striking. Look out across the countryside from this famous Sussex beauty spot and keep your eyes peeled for Hares galloping through the fields and skylarks flying overhead, filling the air with song. These delightful birds are so intertwined with the local landscape that they are even referred to as the "Songsters of the South Downs".
Walk through Britain's oldest forests and heritage-rich estates
Around a quarter of the South Downs is woodland, making it the most thickly forested national park in England and Wales. The dense woods of Kingley Vale are home to the oldest trees in the country as well as mysterious Bronze Age burial chambers known as the Devil’s Humps.
Alongside thickets of ancient yew trees, you’ll also find the well-manicured gardens of Sussex’s finest stately homes. Discover the Elizabethan splendour of 16th century Parham House or explore the 700-acre deer park surrounding Petworth House. And if you can tear yourself away from the handsome grounds, inside, Petworth has lavishly decorated drawing rooms, artworks and antique furnishings to admire.
Start planning your walking holiday in South Downs
We offer a wide selection of holidays which take in the best of the SOuth Downs. From guided walking holidays and birdwatching breaks to winery tours and sightseeing, you'll find plenty of ways to explore this beautiful region with expert leaders and friendly company throughout.
3 Night South Downs Gentle Guided Walking Holiday
3 Night South Downs Walking with Sightseeing Holiday
3 Night Yoga & Walking Holiday in the South Downs
3 Night South Downs Guided Walking Holiday
