The South Downs Way is an ancient long distance path running along a ridge of hills in south-east England. It runs from Winchester, the medieval capital of England, through to Beachy Head and Eastbourne, 100 miles to the east. In 1972 it was deservedly designated as one of our National Trails.
As the trail climbs out of Winchester it follows a twisting route over the Hampshire Downs before passing through the Queen Elizabeth Country Park to reach West Sussex. From here it closely follows the high ridge of the South Downs passing within sight of the large towns of Midhurst, Worthing, Brighton and Lewes before reaching Alfriston. It pauses to take a refreshing riverside stroll along the Cuckmere before tackling the magnificent Seven Sisters coastal path culminating at the soaring sight of Beachy Head and the sedate seaside resort beyond.
Much of the South Downs Way is isolated and surprisingly quiet considering the density of population just a few miles either side. It does, however, venture close enough to some pretty towns and villages, such as Buriton, Amberley & Steyning, to allow for provisions and overnight stops. The views to both north and south can be quite stunning with some high points claiming views of almost 40 miles from the Isle of Wight to Oxfordshire - and yet this is a trail that never rises above 900 feet.
This National Trail is also unique in two ways – it is the only one contained entirely within the South Downs National Park and it is the only one designated as a bridleway, meaning there are no stiles. It’s views have inspired poets such as Rudyard Kipling and Hilaire Belloc and painters like John Constable who spoke of the view from Devils Dyke as ‘grandest in the world’.
In late spring the common spotted orchid is an almost guaranteed sight whilst those with a keen eye might spot the rarer Bee Orchid. Roe Deer roam freely through the woods in surprisingly large herds whist overhead the magnificent Red Kite is becoming a common sight. The round barrows and hill forts remind us that this is an ancient land farmed long before the Romans forged Stane Street over these hills but one imagines that even the Roman soldiers must have paused and marvelled at the beauty as they crossed the ridge of these timeless hills two thousand years ago.
The South Downs Way is a splendid, undulating 100 mile trail. It can be enjoyed by most reasonably fit walkers in around nine days. It will reward you with many fine views, some lovely flowers, unexpected wildlife, a true sense of history and some of the prettiest pubs and villages in England.