South Downs Way

Description

  1. Length of trail 163 km, 101 miles
  2. Length in days 8 days
  3. Start of trail Eastbourne
  4. Traildino grading EW, Easy walk, nature trail

South Downs Way

101 miles, 162 km, 8 days

National Trail

The South Downs Way is a National Trail, like its northern neighbour, the North Downs Way. The route runs through a landscape of limestone hills, the Downs. The beauty of these hills is famous, and there are plans to declare the region a National Park. The path starts at the coast in Eastbourne, with a loop. Then the walk spreads west into the interior of Sussex.

The lime rich soils support a rich growth of plants and trees which have created a rich fauna. The hills are also very quiet, despite the many crowded cities in southeast England. Cyclists and horse riders can use the path. The weekends can be busy. Nobody wants to miss a sunny bank holiday in spring! Finding shelter in a youth hostel, hotel or b & b should not be a problem.

Opinions

Rate 9.0 | 2 votes | No 1. in United Kingdom
  • Rory
  • Rate 8
  • Positive The South Downs Way is covered in history, a truly beautiful walk. At times open and windy, others sheltered by woodland, but all the time a real joy to walk. Easy going, charming scenery and great pubs either side of the downs. I live on the South Downs and will say that this is the best way to experience this part of England.
  • Aaron Barnes August 2006
  • Rate 10
  • Positive Everything. Easy walking with fantastic views from start to finish. Plentyful accomodation. My favourite trail so far (2012, walked in 2006) and it will be difficult to beat. Just do it!
  • Negative I can't think of anything other than - watch out for rampaging cyclists! (Disclaimer - cast majority of cyclists are excellent - there are however always one or two idiots that seem to be intent on mowing down walkers!) Much is classified bridleway so just be aware that the route is well used by various different groups and can be busy!
More opinions…

Map

South Downs Way

Books

Stanfords
United Kingdom
2012
  • South Downs Way
  • South Downs Way, a 160-km / 100 mile route from Eastbourne in East Sussex to Winchester in Wiltshire, in a series of walking guides to the National Trails in England and Wales with colour extracts from the Ordnance Survey's Explorer series at 1:25,000 showing points along the route cross-referenced to the text. The maps also indicate nearby... Read more
  • Also available from:
  • The Book Depository, United Kingdom
  • De Zwerver, Netherlands
» Click to open
The Book Depository
United Kingdom
2012
De Zwerver
Netherlands
2012
  • Wandelgids South Downs Way | Aurum press |
  • goede kaarten van Ordnance survey, schaal 1:25.000. Routebeschrijving behoorlijk uitgebreid. The South Downs Way runs for 100 miles over the chalk down land of Sussex and Hampshire, from Eastbourne to Winchester. It is one of only two National Trails that can be used not only by walkers but also by cyclists and horse-riders for its entire... Read more
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De Zwerver
Netherlands
2012
  • Also available from:
  • Cicerone Press , United Kingdom
  • The Book Depository, United Kingdom
» Click to open
Cicerone Press
United Kingdom
2012
  • The South Downs Way
  • Handy pocket sized guidebook for anyone walking the South Downs Way National Trail. The 100-mile long distance walk between Eastbourne and Winchester is described in both directions over 12 stages. Generally easy underfoot the Way links many ancient and historical tracks, fine wooded areas, delightful river valleys and lovely little villages. Read more
The Book Depository
United Kingdom
2012
» Click to close
The Book Depository
United Kingdom
2012
The Book Depository
United Kingdom
2011
  • Also available from:
  • Cicerone Press , United Kingdom
» Click to open
Cicerone Press
United Kingdom
2011
  • Walking in Sussex
  • Walking in Sussex describes 40 circular walks that show the great variety of scenery and history in Sussex. Short walks and more demanding routes, including outline descriptions of some of the region's long-distance paths. Covers the South Downs, High Weald, Ashdown Forest. Read more
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De Zwerver
Netherlands
2011
  • Wandelgids Walks in the South Downs National Park > Cicerone |
  • Walks in the South Downs National Park describes 40 circular walking routes for all abilities, from Winchester to Eastbourne. Casual strolls and long-distance walks, in England´s newest national park, visiting the iconic Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, Ditchling Beacon and Cissbury Ring. Read more
  • Also available from:
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • The Book Depository, United Kingdom
  • Cicerone Press , United Kingdom
» Click to open
Stanfords
United Kingdom
2011
  • South Downs National Park Walks
  • A walking guide to the South Downs National Park, across Hampshire and East Sussex in southern England, England's newest national park, describing 40 routes for all abilities, from Winchester to Eastbourne. With some of the most iconic landscapes in southern England, including the white chalk cliffs of Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, and... Read more
The Book Depository
United Kingdom
2011
Cicerone Press
United Kingdom
2011
  • Walks in the South Downs National Park
  • Handy guidebook describing 40 circular walks in the South Downs National Park. The walks range from just under 5 miles to 11 miles in length, visiting the iconic Beachy Head, Seven Sisters, Ditchling Beacon and Cissbury Ring. The South Downs are accessible all year round, with spring and early summer best for seeing the wild flowers and wildlife. Read more
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Cicerone Press
United Kingdom
2009
  • The National Trails
  • This inspirational guidebook looks at each of the UK's 19 National Trails. Presenting the information in a way that allows ease of comparison and contrast, with practical details to help you plan your walk. Some Trails are short and easy, others much longer, many have strong themes - they may follow a coastline, or traverse ranges of hills. Read more
  • Also available from:
  • The Book Depository, United Kingdom
  • De Zwerver, Netherlands
» Click to open
The Book Depository
United Kingdom
2009
De Zwerver
Netherlands
2009
» Click to close
The Book Depository
United Kingdom
The Book Depository
United Kingdom
The Book Depository
United Kingdom
The Book Depository
United Kingdom
More books…

Maps

Stanfords
United Kingdom
2012
  • South Downs Way
  • South Downs Way, a 160-km / 100 mile route from Eastbourne in East Sussex to Winchester in Wiltshire, in a series of walking guides to the National Trails in England and Wales with colour extracts from the Ordnance Survey's Explorer series at 1:25,000 showing points along the route cross-referenced to the text. The maps also indicate nearby... Read more
  • Also available from:
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
» Click to open
Stanfords
United Kingdom
2012
  • South Downs Way
  • South Downs Way, a 160-km / 100 mile route from Eastbourne in East Sussex to Winchester in Wiltshire, in a series of walking guides to the National Trails in England and Wales with colour extracts from the Ordnance Survey's Explorer series at 1:25,000 showing points along the route cross-referenced to the text. The maps also indicate nearby... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
2012
  • South Downs Way
  • South Downs Way, a 160-km / 100 mile route from Eastbourne in East Sussex to Winchester in Wiltshire, in a series of walking guides to the National Trails in England and Wales with colour extracts from the Ordnance Survey's Explorer series at 1:25,000 showing points along the route cross-referenced to the text. The maps also indicate nearby... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
2012
  • South Downs Way
  • South Downs Way, a 160-km / 100 mile route from Eastbourne in East Sussex to Winchester in Wiltshire, in a series of walking guides to the National Trails in England and Wales with colour extracts from the Ordnance Survey's Explorer series at 1:25,000 showing points along the route cross-referenced to the text. The maps also indicate nearby... Read more
» Click to close
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Winchester and Basingstoke
  • Map No. 185, Winchester and Basingstoke, in the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Andover, Romsey, Eastleigh, Upper Chute, Litchfield, Hannington, Hurstbourne Tarrant, Quidhampton, Oakley, Overton, Cliddesden, Whitchurch, Appleshaw, Thruxton, Goodworth Clatford, Longparish, North Waltham, Herriard, Axford, Sutton Scotney,... Read more
  • Also available from:
  • De Zwerver, Netherlands
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Ordnance Survey , United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
» Click to open
De Zwerver
Netherlands
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Winchester and Basingstoke
  • Map No. 185, Winchester and Basingstoke, in the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Andover, Romsey, Eastleigh, Upper Chute, Litchfield, Hannington, Hurstbourne Tarrant, Quidhampton, Oakley, Overton, Cliddesden, Whitchurch, Appleshaw, Thruxton, Goodworth Clatford, Longparish, North Waltham, Herriard, Axford, Sutton Scotney,... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Winchester and Basingstoke
  • Map No. 185, Winchester and Basingstoke, in the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Andover, Romsey, Eastleigh, Upper Chute, Litchfield, Hannington, Hurstbourne Tarrant, Quidhampton, Oakley, Overton, Cliddesden, Whitchurch, Appleshaw, Thruxton, Goodworth Clatford, Longparish, North Waltham, Herriard, Axford, Sutton Scotney,... Read more
Ordnance Survey
United Kingdom
  • Winchester & Basingstoke
  • Map sheet number 185 in the OS Landranger map series is the ideal map to use when planning a day out around the Winchester and Basingstoke area. With plenty of cultural and city attractions alongside pleasant countryside, this area appeals to all types of outdoors enthusiast.Highlights of the area include: - Winchester Cathedral -... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Winchester and Basingstoke
  • Map No. 185, Winchester and Basingstoke, in the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Andover, Romsey, Eastleigh, Upper Chute, Litchfield, Hannington, Hurstbourne Tarrant, Quidhampton, Oakley, Overton, Cliddesden, Whitchurch, Appleshaw, Thruxton, Goodworth Clatford, Longparish, North Waltham, Herriard, Axford, Sutton Scotney,... Read more
» Click to close
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Chichester and the South Downs
  • Map No. 197, Chichester and the South Downs, in the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Bognor Regis, Arundel, Littlehampton, Havant, Emsworth, Horndean, Midhurst, Petersfield, Hawkley, Liss, Milland, Furnhurst, Kirdford, Rogate, South Harting, Petworth, Billingshurst, Pullborough, Ducton, Clanfield, Bury, Storrington,... Read more
  • Also available from:
  • Ordnance Survey , United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • De Zwerver, Netherlands
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
» Click to open
Ordnance Survey
United Kingdom
  • Chichester & the South Downs
  • Map sheet number 197 in the OS Landranger map series is the ideal map to use when planning a trip to the Chichester and South Downs area. The area has much to offer visitors including stunning sand dunes, historical buildings and rolling hills.Highlights of the area include: - Chichester Cathedral and the Market Cross - East Head... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Chichester and the South Downs
  • Map No. 197, Chichester and the South Downs, in the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Bognor Regis, Arundel, Littlehampton, Havant, Emsworth, Horndean, Midhurst, Petersfield, Hawkley, Liss, Milland, Furnhurst, Kirdford, Rogate, South Harting, Petworth, Billingshurst, Pullborough, Ducton, Clanfield, Bury, Storrington,... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Chichester and the South Downs
  • Map No. 197, Chichester and the South Downs, in the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Bognor Regis, Arundel, Littlehampton, Havant, Emsworth, Horndean, Midhurst, Petersfield, Hawkley, Liss, Milland, Furnhurst, Kirdford, Rogate, South Harting, Petworth, Billingshurst, Pullborough, Ducton, Clanfield, Bury, Storrington,... Read more
De Zwerver
Netherlands
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Chichester and the South Downs
  • Map No. 197, Chichester and the South Downs, in the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Bognor Regis, Arundel, Littlehampton, Havant, Emsworth, Horndean, Midhurst, Petersfield, Hawkley, Liss, Milland, Furnhurst, Kirdford, Rogate, South Harting, Petworth, Billingshurst, Pullborough, Ducton, Clanfield, Bury, Storrington,... Read more
» Click to close
De Zwerver
Netherlands
  • Also available from:
  • Ordnance Survey , United Kingdom
» Click to open
Ordnance Survey
United Kingdom
  • Brighton & Hove
  • Map sheet number 122 in the OS Explorer map series is ideal for those seeking adventure in the Brighton and Hove area. The coast can be explored by foot taking in the sights and sounds of Brighton, Hove, Portslade, Shoreham by Sea, Peacehaven and Newhaven on the way. The countryside in this area offers walkers rolling Sussex Downs, pretty... Read more
» Click to close
Ordnance Survey
United Kingdom
  • Winchester
  • Map sheet number 132 in the OS Explorer map series is the ideal map for days out in the Winchester area. Winchester, capital of England in Saxon times is a beautiful city with many cultural attractions. The surrounding countryside has much to offer outdoor enthusiasts.Highlights of the area include: - The South Downs Way- Winchester... Read more
  • Also available from:
  • De Zwerver, Netherlands
» Click to open
De Zwerver
Netherlands
» Click to close
Ordnance Survey
United Kingdom
  • Brighton & Hove
  • OS Explorer Map - Active is an encapsulated product that is tough, durable and weatherproof. The maps are covered in a protective plastic coating that can be written on, so your favourite routes can be easily highlighted. They are also lightweight and compact; just right for the active map user.Highlights of the area include: Lewes, Burgess... Read more
Ordnance Survey
United Kingdom
  • Winchester
  • Map sheet number 132 in the OS Explorer map series is the ideal map for days out in the Winchester area. Winchester, capital of England in Saxon times is a beautiful city with many cultural attractions. The surrounding countryside has much to offer outdoor enthusiasts.Highlights of the area include: - The South Downs Way- Winchester... Read more
Ordnance Survey
United Kingdom
  • Winchester & Basingstoke
  • Map sheet number 185 in the OS Landranger Active map series is the ideal map to use when planning a day out around the Winchester and Basingstoke area. With plenty of cultural and city attractions alongside pleasant countryside, this area appeals to all types of outdoors enthusiast.Highlights of the area include: - Winchester ... Read more
  • Also available from:
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
» Click to open
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Winchester and Basingstoke OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 185, Winchester and Basingstoke, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Andover, Romsey, Eastleigh, Upper Chute, Litchfield, Hannington, Hurstbourne Tarrant, Quidhampton, Oakley, Overton, Cliddesden, Whitchurch, Appleshaw, Thruxton, Goodworth Clatford,... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Winchester and Basingstoke OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 185, Winchester and Basingstoke, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Andover, Romsey, Eastleigh, Upper Chute, Litchfield, Hannington, Hurstbourne Tarrant, Quidhampton, Oakley, Overton, Cliddesden, Whitchurch, Appleshaw, Thruxton, Goodworth Clatford,... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Winchester and Basingstoke OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 185, Winchester and Basingstoke, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Andover, Romsey, Eastleigh, Upper Chute, Litchfield, Hannington, Hurstbourne Tarrant, Quidhampton, Oakley, Overton, Cliddesden, Whitchurch, Appleshaw, Thruxton, Goodworth Clatford,... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Winchester and Basingstoke OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 185, Winchester and Basingstoke, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Andover, Romsey, Eastleigh, Upper Chute, Litchfield, Hannington, Hurstbourne Tarrant, Quidhampton, Oakley, Overton, Cliddesden, Whitchurch, Appleshaw, Thruxton, Goodworth Clatford,... Read more
» Click to close
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Chichester and the South Downs OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 197, Chichester and the South Downs, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Bognor Regis, Arundel, Littlehampton, Havant, Emsworth, Horndean, Midhurst, Petersfield, Hawkley, Liss, Milland, Furnhurst, Kirdford, Rogate, South Harting, Petworth, Billingshurst,... Read more
  • Also available from:
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Ordnance Survey , United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
» Click to open
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Chichester and the South Downs OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 197, Chichester and the South Downs, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Bognor Regis, Arundel, Littlehampton, Havant, Emsworth, Horndean, Midhurst, Petersfield, Hawkley, Liss, Milland, Furnhurst, Kirdford, Rogate, South Harting, Petworth, Billingshurst,... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Chichester and the South Downs OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 197, Chichester and the South Downs, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Bognor Regis, Arundel, Littlehampton, Havant, Emsworth, Horndean, Midhurst, Petersfield, Hawkley, Liss, Milland, Furnhurst, Kirdford, Rogate, South Harting, Petworth, Billingshurst,... Read more
Ordnance Survey
United Kingdom
  • Chichester & the South Downs
  • Map sheet number 197 in the OS Landranger Active map series is the ideal map to use when planning a trip to the Chichester and South Downs area. The area has much to offer visitors including stunning sand dunes, historical buildings and rolling hills.Highlights of the area include: - Chichester Cathedral and the Market Cross - East ... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Chichester and the South Downs OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 197, Chichester and the South Downs, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Bognor Regis, Arundel, Littlehampton, Havant, Emsworth, Horndean, Midhurst, Petersfield, Hawkley, Liss, Milland, Furnhurst, Kirdford, Rogate, South Harting, Petworth, Billingshurst,... Read more
» Click to close
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Brighton and Lewes OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 198, Brighton and Lewes, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Worthing, Horsham, Haywards Heath, Crawley, Burgess Hill, Uckfield, Newhaven, Seaford, Shoreham-by-Sea, Turners Hill, Forest Row, Sinfold, Balcombe, Sharpthorne, Nutley, Ardingly, Handcross,... Read more
  • Also available from:
  • Ordnance Survey , United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
  • Stanfords, United Kingdom
» Click to open
Ordnance Survey
United Kingdom
  • Brighton & Lewes
  • OS Landranger Map - Active is a new encapsulated product that is tough, durable and weatherproof. The maps are covered in a protective plastic coating that can be written on, so your favourite routes can be easily highlighted. They are also lightweight and compact; just right for the active map user. Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Brighton and Lewes OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 198, Brighton and Lewes, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Worthing, Horsham, Haywards Heath, Crawley, Burgess Hill, Uckfield, Newhaven, Seaford, Shoreham-by-Sea, Turners Hill, Forest Row, Sinfold, Balcombe, Sharpthorne, Nutley, Ardingly, Handcross,... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Brighton and Lewes OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 198, Brighton and Lewes, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Worthing, Horsham, Haywards Heath, Crawley, Burgess Hill, Uckfield, Newhaven, Seaford, Shoreham-by-Sea, Turners Hill, Forest Row, Sinfold, Balcombe, Sharpthorne, Nutley, Ardingly, Handcross,... Read more
Stanfords
United Kingdom
  • Brighton and Lewes OS ACTIVE Map
  • Map No. 198, Brighton and Lewes, in the waterproof and tear-resistant OS Active version of the Ordnance Survey Landranger series at 1:50,000, including Worthing, Horsham, Haywards Heath, Crawley, Burgess Hill, Uckfield, Newhaven, Seaford, Shoreham-by-Sea, Turners Hill, Forest Row, Sinfold, Balcombe, Sharpthorne, Nutley, Ardingly, Handcross,... Read more
» Click to close
More maps…

Walking holidays

Macs Adventure
United Kingdom
  • South Downs Way
  • Walking Holiday from Winchester to Eastbourne. The South Downs Way stretches 100 miles from the historic city of Winchester to the coastal chalk hills on the South Coast. Located within an hour from the country’s capital city, this National Trail is the perfect escape from often hectic city life. Walk amongst vibrant yellow fields of corn,... Read more
More walking holidays…

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