The South Downs is a national park in South East England. The park comprises of an area of chalk upland whch stretches from Winchester in Hampshire, through West Sussex to Eastbourne in East Sussex.
Which county are the South Downs in?
The South Downs National Park is England’s newest National Park established in 2009. The Park, covering an area of 1,627 square kilometres in southern England, stretching from Winchester in the west to Eastbourne in the east through the counties of Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex.
Where are the South Downs located?
The South Downs are a long chalk escarpment that stretches for over 110 kilometres (68 mi), rising from the valley of the River Itchen near Winchester, Hampshire, in the west to Beachy Head near Eastbourne, East Sussex, in the east.
Where does the South Downs start and finish?
About. The South Downs way is situated in Hampshire’s second National Park the South Downs. The route begins in Winchester and stretches 100 miles to Eastbourne. Along the route are unspoilt views of countryside, small hamlet villages and the English channel.
Why are the South Downs so called?
Downs, rounded and grass-covered hills in southern England that are typically composed of chalk. The name comes from the Old English dūn (“hill”).
What is special about the South Downs?
The unique combination of geology and micro- climates of the South Downs has created a rich mosaic of habitats that supports many rare and internationally important wildlife species. Sheep- grazed downland is the iconic habitat of the chalk landscape.
Where does the South Downs end?
One of the most popular National Trails in the country, the South Downs Way, has finally got an official western start/end point at the National Trust’s Winchester City Mill.
Is the South Downs nice?
Breathtaking, mysterious, beautiful and inspiring – the South Downs is all these things. But there are some gems in England’s newest National Park that have an extra sprinkling of spectacular – those kind of “wow” spots capable of leaving a permanent footprint on your bank of feel-good memories.
What is the best part of the South Downs Way?
Best views on the South Downs Way
Butser Hill is the highest point along the trail at 270 metres. It looks across to the forests of Queen Elizabeth Park in Hampshire, but it’s framed by the A3 which can be a little noisy at times. For a more remote viewpoint in Hampshire, try Old Winchester Hill.
Where should I live in South Downs?
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.
- The Meon Valley.
- Petersfield.
- Midhurst and Petworth.
- Alfriston.
How difficult is the South Downs Way?
The SDW is a low difficulty trail. There are plenty of hills but there is nothing technically difficult about walking up and down them.
How long does it take to walk South Downs Way?
How long does it take to complete the Trail? Most people take 8 or 9 days to walk the whole 100 miles (160km) at 12 – 15 miles (25km) a day. It’s worth considering if you are walking that the villages where accommodation is are at the foot of the hill so you’ll have to walk down in the evening and up in the morning.
How do I get from London to South Downs National Park by train?
There is a regular service from London Waterloo and Clapham Junction which will get you from London to the South Downs National Park. Trains from London Waterloo to Winchester will take about an hour, and to get to the heart of the South Downs the train from London Waterloo to Liss takes about 90 minutes.
Are the White Cliffs of Dover in the South Downs?
The White Cliffs of Dover form part of the North Downs.
What are hills called in England?
The Hewitts
The Hewitts, named after the initials of their definition, are “hills in England, Wales and Ireland over two thousand” feet (609.6 m), with a relative height of at least 30 metres (98 ft).
Why is the South Downs a national park?
An environment shaped by centuries of farming and embracing new enterprise; Great opportunities for recreational activities and learning experiences; Well-conserved historical features and a rich cultural heritage; Distinctive towns and villages, and communities with real pride in their area.
Is South Downs worth visiting?
The variety and sheer number of indoor and outdoor attractions make it the perfect place to visit all year round. The South Downs, famous for its rolling hills, ancient woodlands, chalk cliffs and unique market towns, has everything you could ever want for glorious day trips and perfect holidays alike.
What villages are in the South Downs National Park?
South Downs Towns & Villages in Hampshire
- Petersfield.
- Chawton.
- Bishop’s Waltham.
- Liss.
- Selborne.
- Hambledon.
- Bordon.
- Liphook.
Who owns South Downs National Park?
This post is by Guy Shrubsole. A quarter of the South Downs National Park – over 100,000 acres – is owned by just a dozen landowners, Who Owns England can reveal. The landowners include two Dukes, three Viscounts, one Baron, and two Baronets.
Is the South Downs Way signposted?
Well maintained and clearly signposted, the South Downs Way is ideal for walkers, cyclists and horse riders alike. There is good access to all parts of the route and there’s plenty of accommodation and places to stop for lunch.
Can you drive on the South Downs Way?
Situated in a busy part of the United Kingdom, driving through parts of the South Downs can become congested, especially at busy times. It’s for this reason we encourage visitors to use public transport where possible.