South Downs National Trail

Go to day: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Journey Time:   
6 Days
Distance: 
92 miles (148 km)
Airports:
Bournemouth/
Southampton/
Brighton

Plan your route: VisitBritain Journey Planner (visitbritain.transportdirect.info/web2)

Overview

The South Downs Way National Trail follows the old routes and droveways along the chalk escarpment of the rolling South Downs. The trail runs from King Alfred's historic capital of Winchester to the spectacular chalk cliffs at Beachy Head near Eastbourne. If you like great views, wildlife, prehistoric monuments, and pretty villages, this is the trail for you.

Day 1: Winchester - Exton - Queen Elizabeth Country Park

Winchester - Exton: 12 miles (19 km)
Exton - Queen Elizabeth Country Park: 10 miles (16 km)
Totals for Day: 22 miles (35 km)

Winchester

The city of Winchester is just 1 hour away from London. The former seat of King Alfred the Great, Winchester is England's ancient capital. The city is best known for its 11th century Cathedral and Great Hall, which for over 600 years has housed the mysterious Authurian round table. The birthplace of cricket and resting place of Jane Austen, Winchester is well worth a visit.

Must see and do:

Exton

The first stop on the trail is the pretty village of Exton, in Hampshire. Sitting on the River Meon, Exton is the perfect place to stop for a rest. Visit the 13th century St Peter & St Paul church, which is situated in the middle of the village, which is part of the East Hampshire Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Must see and do:

Queen Elizabeth Country Park

End the day with a visit to the Queen Elizabeth Country Park. Hampshire's biggest country park has 1,400 acres of open woodland and 20 miles of trails for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. The park also has a visitor centre, which houses an audiovisual theatre and activity centre.

Must see and do:

Go to day: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6