South Downs Way
A National Trail along the chalk ridge of the South Downs from Winchester to the sea cliffs at Eastbourne.
At a glance
- Starts in
- Winchester
- Ends in
- Eastbourne
- Length
- 160 km
- On foot
- 8–9 days
- Countries
- United Kingdom
About the trail
The path follows the crest of the South Downs through woodland and open chalk grassland, past Iron Age hill forts and viewpoints such as Devil's Dyke and Ditchling Beacon, ending at Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters. It lies entirely within the South Downs National Park.
It was England's first long-distance bridleway, so walkers share it with cyclists and horse riders along its whole length. Most people walk west to east, finishing at the sea.
It can be walked at any time of year, but May to September are the busy months.