South Downs Way: England's Latest National Trail

The South Downs Way is a linear walk that starts in Winchester, in the South of England, and runs towards the east, where it ends in the seaside resort of Eastbourne. It is completely surrounded by the South Downs National Park and is known as one of England’s easiest long distance hikes.

It is a varied trail that crosses through lovely villages as well as through typical English valleys, where the smell of wildflowers will welcome you. Enjoy your lunch in a cozy English pub, as you are in the middle of nature, but never far away from shops and restaurants.

The trail is about 160 kilometers long and will take you from the south-west of England to the seaside in the south-east. It is a very accessible route which can easily be walked by hikers of all levels. The South Downs Way runs mostly along a ridge, but you will also walk on white chalk and rocky paths. If you want a moderate difficult hike, the South Downs Way could be finished in approximately nine days, but if you want to do a more intense hike, you can finish it in seven or eight days as well. The trail has good road signage so you can easily find your way.

Since most of the South Downs Way goes along a ridge, it is necessary to descend when you want to visit a village. However, the aggregated ascent is only about 4200 meters, and the hills are almost never more than 200 meters. This makes it a fairly easy hike. There are no steep climbs, so ascending and descending will not be too hard.

There are many things to look forward to on this hike. Even the starting point of Winchester is already a very popular city to visit. It is known for its cathedral, which we would definitely recommend visiting. About halfway through the South Downs Way, you will find the towns of Amberley and Arundel, where you will see historic thatched houses, as well as castles and the famous Bignor Roman Villa. If you are a bookworm, make sure to visit the town of Lewes. Here, you will find many old English bookshops. Be sure to pick up your favourite English folklore tale!

You’ll pass by the Devil’s Dyke, which is said to have been created by the devil himself, in order to flood the parshians below. However, scientists believe that it was created during the ice age. It is the longest, widest and deepest dry valley in England and is nearly one mile long. Move on and see the famous Seven Sisters chalk hills looming in the distance. Then, make your way down to the seaside resort and the final stop of the South Downs Way; Eastbourne. If the weather permits it, you’ll be able to relax on the beach or dip your toes in the waters of the English Channel.

The South Downs Way start is in Winchester. This city used to be the Capital of England and many tourists still come to see the longest medieval cathedral in the world. If you are a big fan of the tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, be sure to visit Winchester Castle Hall. You can see the original Round Table here.

The trail ends in the seaside resort of Eastbourne. This town is often referred to as “ the sunniest town in England”. Due to it being so close to France, it enjoys a slightly more tropical climate than the rest of England. This is great if you want to walk in England, but do not want to be walking in the rain everyday. However, it is not guaranteed that there will be no rain at all. After all, you’re still in Great-Britain so make sure to prepare for all kinds of weather.

It is recommended to walk the route from Winchester to Eastbourne (west to east) because you will have the wind in your back. If you decide to do it the other way around, you will most likely be walking in the wind for the entire route.

Not only can the South Downs Way be walked very easily, but it is also very accessible. From London Gatwick Airport, it is merely one hour to Winchester by train. If you arrive at Southampton airport, it is only 15 minutes by train to get to Winchester. Winchester is also very accessible by train from other cities in Great-Britain.

There are trains running frequently from Eastbourne or other stops along the route (Southease, Lewes, Amberley, Petersfield) back to London Victoria, London Waterloo, London Gatwick Airport or to Southampton Airport. Therefore, finding your way back home will not be a problem.

The hiking season for the South Downs Way walk is from May until September. However, the summer holiday starts mid-july and during this month you may find the trail to be much more crowded. Also, attractions along the way are visited much more in this period. Book your South Downs Way accommodation well in advance, as they might be full during the summer months. Even though this area enjoys a slightly more tropical climate. It is wise to prepare for rain as well.

Because the trail is mostly along a ridge, the water will drain easily and the ground will be dry. Nevertheless, after a rain shower it might get slightly muddy and slippery. Be sure to wear shoes with non-slip soles.

Along the South Downs Way route are lots of options for accommodation. You can stay in a typical English B&B or in a hotel. You’ll be spoiled with an English breakfast that will keep you full for a long time. On a budget? Try one of many guesthouses in the area.

The South Downs Way is a popular trek that gathers hundreds of tourists every year. There is always the possibility to have your luggage transported from one accommodation to another. Your suitcase or duffel bag will be picked up from your hotel each morning and it will be ready for you at your next hotel at the end of the day.