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The South East may be one of England’s most densely populated and urbanised areas, but it includes some remarkably extensive and beautiful open spaces, as well as miles of dramatic coastline. Over many decades the National Trust has acquired and protected land threatened by development and insensitive use.
Kent
The Trust owns many properties within easy reach of everyone in London and the South East, including most of the delightful village of Chiddingstone, complete with cobbled streets and the famous Chiding Stone, from which it takes its name. The Trust’s founder, Octavia Hill, knew this area well, and a woodland is named after her at Toys Hill, from where there are magnificent views.
One of the South East’s most mysterious areas is Romney Marsh, still peaceful and relatively inaccessible. Here the Trust owns 3 miles of the Royal Military Canal, between Appledore and Warehorne. There are pleasant walks along the banks of the canal, which was built in 1804–7 as a defence against Napoleonic invasion.
The White Cliffs of Dover need no introduction. Information about this fascinating area can be found in the Saga Gateway to the White Cliffs Visitor Centre, which provides access to miles of outstanding coastline and walking country, as well as the chance to visit the lighthouse at South Foreland.
Recent years have seen much development in this part of Kent due to the Channel Tunnel, but man’s presence has been felt here for many thousands of years. At Coldrum Long Barrow, near Trottiscliffe, the Trust owns a Neolithic burial chamber, in which skeletal remains have been found.
Surrey
The Surrey Hills, rising to Reigate Hill, Box Hill and Leith Hill at their highest point, provide a picturesque backdrop to some of the Trust’s classic country estates. This is idyllic countryside, offering a variety of walks with breathtaking views.
Running for nearly 20 miles between Godalming and Weybridge are the River Wey Navigations, dating back to the 17th century and once part of London’s lost route to the sea. Information on this important waterway is available at Dapdune Wharf in Guildford.
There are large expanses of heathland at Frensham and Hindhead, including the dramatic Devil’s Punch Bowl. The issues involved in the management of heathland and its associated wildlife are interpreted at the Witley Centre.
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Sussex
Along the Sussex coast Trust-owned land on the white cliffs of the Seven Sisters, including Birling Gap and Crowlink, offers delightful walks over open downland with spectacular coastal views.
Chyngton Farm, on the estuary of the meandering River Cuckmere, and Frog Firle Farm inland near Alfriston, are both in classic South Downs country, rich in natural history.
East Head offers a mile of unspoilt sandy beach and dunes at the entrance to Chichester Harbour. Access is through the West Wittering Estate. West along the South Downs Way are important areas of downland, such as Devil’s Dyke and Harting Down. Both are rich in downland flora and fauna, and reward those who leave the beaten track.
Also with all-round spectacular views is the country’s second largest Iron Age hill-fort, Cissbury Ring, north of Worthing. The Slindon Estate offers a picturesque flint village and walks in ancient woodland, parkland and downland.
The West Weald includes several large expanses of rare lowland heath. Black Down, probably the most wooded of these, is the highest point in Sussex.
Highlights for families
There is plenty of space to run around and play at Box Hill, with open heathland at Headley Common close by. Leith Hill, Polesden Lacey, the White Cliffs of Dover and the Seven Sisters, Devil’s Dyke and the Witley Centre offer a wide range of activities for children and school groups.
The Saga Gateway to the White Cliffs Visitor Centre and spectacular Bodiam Castle have much to offer families on a day out. The interactive exhibits and boat trip at Dapdune Wharf are always popular with the under 10s.
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