If you look at a map of England, you will find a large green space stretching across the south. These are the South Downs, arguably one of the most gorgeous areas in the country.

Spanning from Winchester to Eastbourne and covering just over 1,600 square kilometres, you could spend your whole life exploring even just the tip of the South Downs. From charming villages to ancient forests, it has a little something for everyone— it is easy to see why so many people love it so much.

TAKE IN THE HISTORY

The South Downs has a fascinating history dating back 5,000 years, with remnants such as Neolithic burial mounds and Roman villas still standing today. The region features historical landmarks like the Iron Age hill fort of Cissbury Ring, where visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the countryside from the top.

The Roman villa at Bignor boasts some of the best Roman mosaics in the UK, along with well-preserved bathhouses and living spaces, and at Petworth House you can explore a rather enviable country house filled with art and historic design. Another favourite is Arundel Castle, where you can even attend seasonal events such as the medieval weekend, Shakespeare open air theatre, and festival of history.

QUAINT VILLAGES

The South Downs is scattered with wonderful little villages such as Amberley, which boasts picturesque thatched cottages nestled alongside a medieval church and seemingly endless winding lanes just ready to be explored. Visitors can also delve into the past at the Amberley Museum, where exhibitions showcasing crafts, steam engines and the industrial legacy of the South Downs beckon guests to step back in time.

Steyning is another village that you absolutely cannot miss, with a history dating all the way back to the Saxon period. This market town is filled with independent shops, tea rooms, and historic buildings, with the 12th-century St. Andrew’s Church being one of our favourite things about this town.

While in the South Downs, you should also be sure to visit Midhurst, known for its Tudor buildings and the ruins of one of England’s grandest homes, and Arundel, with its Gothic cathedral. In both, you can find great access to many different local trails.

WALK, RIDE, RELAX

Speaking of trails, the South Downs Way, a 100-mile National Trail, is a real utopia for both outdoor enthusiasts and more relaxed amblers alike, and the Serpent Trail, the 64-mile route from Haslemere to Petersfield, offers both a diverse landscape and a certain silence that you are unlikely to experience on other trails.

Here you can also see the Seven Sisters, the series of chalk cliffs that dramatically plunge into the English Channel, creating the brilliant contrast of white cliffs and blue sea which the area is so famous for. It really is quite beautiful.

However, for those who prefer cycling over walking, the South Downs offers many fantastic routes. The Centurion Way is the best option for this, offering an old railway line turned cycle path which is both gentle and absolutely breathtaking. Spanning from Chichester to West Dean, this is an excellent route for a relatively easy ride.

Another great thing to do in the South Downs is simply stop in one of the local naturally beautiful areas, pull out a book, and sit back in the sun as you listen to birdsong and the flustering of rabbits in bushes. It really is quite perfect.

We also recommend Pulborough Brooks, where you can see wetlands, grasslands, and a wonderful mosaic, South Downs Centre in SistersMidhurst, where you can check out their exhibitions, activities, and information on the natural and cultural heritage of the area, and West Dean Gardens, where you can explore the walled kitchen garden, a sunken garden, and a series of Victorian glasshouses.

WHERE TO EAT

The South Downs has a wonderful and yet somehow deeply underrated food scene, with many incredible pubs, restaurants, and bistros. Of those, we highly recommend:

The White Horse Chilgrove

A traditional country pub with a menu which features locally sourced ingredients, a rustic atmosphere, and a very welcoming vibe. The staff here are especially friendly.

The Lavender Tea Rooms Midhurst

A delightful tea room which offers a charming and traditional afternoon tea experience, with a selection of freshly brewed teas, homemade scones, and delicate finger sandwiches. Spoiler: everything is delicious.

The Horsham Bistro Horsham

Clinging onto the fringe of the South Downs, and yet so good that it had to be mentioned, this bistro serves a range of contemporary dishes such as fish of the day, chicken parmigiana, a ‘duo of duck’, and an iconic, creamy risotto; all of which will continue to linger on your tastebuds.

The Green Olive Café, Lewes

A great choice for those who appreciate a diverse menu of delicious plant-based dishes, including hearty salads, inventive mains, and delightful desserts, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. Do we hear vegan cake, anyone?

The Plough Inn Storrington

This welcoming pub serves classic British fare with a modern twist, highlighting seasonal produce and offering a cosy setting with a large garden. Perfect for the summer.