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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.
The South Downs Way is a hilly but rewarding route for walkers and mountain bikers. Lonely Planet has even included the South Downs Way in it’s 1000 Ultimate Adventures book.
More and more people taking breaks to conquer the whole of the South Downs Way. There are many campsites, B&B’s and pubs scattered not too far off the route for walkers and cyclists looking for a hearty meal or to rest their head.
Distance: 100 miles
Planning your trip: The South Downs Way is marked by signs with white silhouette of an acorn both blue and purple arrows.
Highlights of the South Downs Way:
- Starting in the cathedral city of Winchester, the official start of the route is at the Winchester City Mill, where maps and additional information can be found Keep an eye out for otters in and around the mill.
- Old Winchester Hill – great views and there is a fine Iron Age hill-fort site at the top.
- Butser Hill – highest point on the South Downs Way at 270 metres.
- Queen Elizabeth Country Park – large area of beautiful mixed woodland.
- Amberley village – one of the prettiest villages in the South Downs, just off the way.
- Arundel with its magnificent castle and cathedral
- Fulking Hill – with fantastic 360° views.
- Devils’s Dyke
- The Tudor village of Alfriston
- Seven Sisters & Beachy Head – spectacular coastal views, with sheer chalk cliffs lining the English Channel
The route can been downloaded below (PDF).
