South Down Way

The South Downs are an area of outstanding natural beauty. The area is open to walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and the disabled people using suitable cross country equipment. The South Downs way runs for about 100 miles between Winchester and Eastbourne through the rolling chalk downs of Sussex and Hampshire.

The South Downs Way is highly family-friendly, offering 100 miles of accessible chalk ridges, woodland, and coastal paths, rather than being just for serious hikers. While 100 miles long, the trail is easily broken into short, manageable day walks or shorter, fun, kid-friendly segments featuring great views and plenty of nature.

Family-Friendly Activities and Fun Things to Do
Easy Walks & Picnics: The route features easy, grassy sections (like near Devil’s Dyke) perfect for children, with stunning panoramic views.
History & Exploration: Visit the ancient Bignor Roman Villa with its mosaics, explore the 5,000-year-old burial mounds, and see WWII bunkers.
Animal & Nature Spotting: The area is teeming with wildlife, making it ideal for nature-focused adventures.
Coastal Adventure: The eastern end offers dramatic scenery, including the famous Seven Sisters cliffs and Beachy Head.
Interactive Fun: Gilbert White’s House and Gardens offers family activity trails.
Cycling: Many stretches are suitable for families on mountain bikes, especially the bridleway sections.
Pubs and Treats: The route is dotted with picturesque villages, pubs with beer gardens, and seasonal blackberry picking.

Tips for Families
Break it Up: The path is accessible by train and bus at many points, making it easy to create short, 3-5 mile trips.
Best Sections: The routes around Queen Elizabeth Country Park are great for families.
Accessibility: Parts of the trail, such as at Castle Hill, offer easier access.

The trail runs from Winchester to Eastbourne, with excellent views and firm, chalky terrain that avoids the worst of the mud