Walking the South Downs Way is an exhilarating experience that offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in southern England. Stretching over 100 miles from the historic city of Winchester in Hampshire to the chalky cliffs of Eastbourne in East Sussex, this National Trail is renowned for its stunning vistas, vibrant wildlife, and rich history. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to embark on this beautiful trail.
Key Features of the South Downs Way
- Length: Approximately 100 miles (160 kilometers)
- Start and End Points: Winchester to Eastbourne
- Terrain: Predominantly rolling chalk downland
- Typical Duration: 8 to 9 days for the entire route if walking, though it is also popular with cyclists.
Highlights of the South Downs Way
- Winchester: The ancient capital of England and the starting point of the trail.
- Butser Hill: Near Petersfield, one of the highest points in the South Downs National Park.
- Devil’s Dyke: Offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views across Sussex.
- Ditchling Beacon: The highest point in East Sussex, providing extensive views across the Weald.
- Seven Sisters and Beachy Head: Iconic white chalk cliffs offering dramatic coastline scenery before the trail’s end in Eastbourne.
Planning Your Walk
- Accommodation: There are plenty of options along the route including campsites, B&Bs, and hotels. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak summer months.
- Transportation: Both Winchester and Eastbourne are well-served by public transport. Additionally, several other points along the trail are accessible by bus or train, making it feasible to tackle the trail in smaller segments.
- Supplies: There are numerous villages along the route where you can replenish supplies. However, some sections are quite remote, so it’s wise to carry enough water and snacks for the day.
- Waymarking: The route is well waymarked with acorn symbols indicative of National Trails. Carrying a detailed map or a GPS device is still recommended, especially for detours or more isolated sections.
- Weather and Clothing: Weather can be variable, even in summer. It’s wise to dress in layers and carry waterproof gear. Comfortable walking boots are essential as the terrain can be rough in places.
Tips for Walking the South Downs Way
- Physical Preparation: While the South Downs Way is considered one of the gentler National Trails, it’s still wise to prepare with some pre-walk training, especially if you plan to cover long distances each day.
- Leave No Trace: As always, respect the environment. Stick to the path, carry out your rubbish, and close gates behind you.
- Safety: Let someone know your plans and expected finish times each day. Mobile coverage can be spotty in remote areas, so prepare accordingly.
- Enjoy the Local Culture: Take time to explore the local villages and towns along the way. Sussex and Hampshire boast wonderful pubs, cafes, and restaurants where you can enjoy local food and drink.
Walking the South Downs Way not only offers the chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature but also provides a deep dive into the history and culture of southern England. Whether you’re looking for a challenging long-distance trek or a series of leisurely day walks, the South Downs Way is a fulfilling and scenic choice.
South Downs Way Map
South Downs Way Interactive Map
Transport Links
Buses
A number of bus services that operate within the South Downs include:
- Buses: https://www.traveline.info/ – 0871 200 22 33
- Brighton & Hove: buses.co.uk – 01273 886200
- Compass: compass-travel.co.uk – 01903 690025
- Cuckmere: cuckmerebuses.org.uk –01323 870920
- Metrobus: metrobus.co.uk – 01293 449191
- Stagecoach: http://stagecoachbus.com – 0845 121 0190
Trains Stations
- Winchester
- Petersfield
- Amberley
- Shoreham
- Falmer
- Seaton
Staged Itineraries
4 Day Walking Itinerary with Public Transport
If you are advanced walker who can handle 20 to 30 miles a day and live locally to the South Downs Way the below 4 day intierary might be of interest you! The 4 day stage that have been mapped out using train station as start and endpoint. This itinerary suits someone who has limited spare time and wants to complete trail own long period of time..
| Stage | Start Point | Distance | Ascent / Descend (feet) |
| Day 1 | Winchester Train Station to Petersfield Train Station | 27.6 | 2709 ft / 2614 ft |
| Day 2 | Petersfield Train Station to Amberley Train Station | 26.1 | 3011 ft / 3195 ft |
| Day 3 | Amberley Train Station to Falmer Train Station | 29.7 | 3538 ft / 3415 ft |
| Day 4 | Falmer Train Station to Eastbourne Train Station | 26 | 3421 ft / 3441 ft |
6 Day Walking Itinerary
| Stage | Start Point | Distance | Ascent / Descend (feet) |
| Day 1 | Winchester to East Meon | 17 | 2709 ft / 2614 ft |
| Day 2 | East Meon to Cocking | 21 | 3011 ft / 3195 ft |
| Day 3 | Cocking to Amberley | 13 | 3538 ft / 3415 ft |
| Day 4 | Amberley to Pyecombe | 20 | 3421 ft / 3441 ft |
| Day 5 | Pyecombe to Alfriston | 22 | |
| Day 6 | Alfriston to Eastbourne | 11 |
| Stage | Start Point | Distance | Ascent / Descend (feet) |
| Day 1 | Winchester to Exton | 12 | |
| Day 2 | Exton to South Harting | 17 | |
| Day 3 | South Harting to Amberley | 22 | |
| Day 4 | Amberley to Upper Beeding | 13 | |
| Day 5 | Upper Beeding to Kingston near Lewes | 18 | |
| Day 6 | Kingston near Lewes to Alfriston | 11 | |
| Day 7 | Alfriston to Eastbourne | 11 |
8 Day Walking Itinerary with Accommodation
For walkers looking for accommodation after each stage and prefer 10 to 17 mile distances this guide breaks the South Downs Way into 8 days worth of hiking. In short the maximum day of hiking would be 16.5 miles and minimum amount of hiking would be 10.7 miles. Also accommodation has been listed after each stage.
| Start Point | Distance (miles) | Ascent / Descend (feet) | Accommodation |
| Winchester to Exton | 12.3 | 1155 ft | George and Falcon, Wanford |
| Exton to Buriton | 14.1 | The Five Bells | |
| Buriton to Cocking | 12.5 | The Blue Bells | |
| Cocking to Amberley | 13.1 | Black Horse | |
| Amberley to Bramber | 13.4 | Old Tollgate Hotel | |
| Bramber to Housedean | 16.5 | The Hovel at Housedean | |
| Housedean to Alfrinston | 14 | Wingrove House | |
| Alfinston to Eastbourne | 10.7 | N/A |
9 Day Walking Itinerary
South Downs Way broken into 9 stages with the most miles you walk on stage being 14 miles and the lowest miles being 6 miles. This should be a manageable walk for most ages.
| Start Point | Distance (miles) | Ascent / Descend (feet) |
| Winchester to Exton | 12.3 | 1155 ft |
| Exton to Buriton | 12.5 | |
| Buriton to Cocking | 11.1 | |
| Cocking to Amberley | 12.1 | |
| Amberley to Upper Breeding | 13.7 | |
| Upper Breeding to Pyecombe | 6.6 | |
| Pyecombe to Kingston | 11.1 | |
| Kingston to Alfinston | 11.6 | |
| Alfinston to Eastbourne | 10.9 |
Maps Required for South Downs Way
South Downs Way Related Books
