South Downs

White wildflowers in long grass with mown path and Uppark in background

Wild coast, stunning wildlife, remarkable history - enjoy the top spots in Britain's newest National Park.

Places to visit

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Check before you visit 

Please make sure you check web pages for individual places before you travel, to see where is open and where you may need to book, as well as the most up to date information about visiting.

Take a look at what's open near you
Nature news
Male beaver takes its first swim in the South Downs

Beavers reintroduced in the South Downs 

We've released a pair of beavers into a sheltered valley at the edge of the South Downs as part of our efforts to restore nature. The beavers will help us create a wildlife-rich wetland landscape. The project follows our successful introduction of two beavers at Holnicote in Exmoor early last year. While the animals settle in, we’re asking people not to go to the site, to give them the best possible chance of establishing themselves.

Find out how this project will help our wildife

Places to visit

A frosty winter day at Petworth

Petworth Park and Pleasure Ground 

Inspired by the Baroque palaces of Europe, Petworth House displays one of the finest art collections in the care of the National Trust. It’s an extraordinary and surprising place created by just one family over 900 years. The Pleasure Garden at Petworth and historic deer park are open for spring walks.

The south front at Hinton Ampner, Hampshire

Hinton Ampner 

Tucked away in a sleepy corner of Hampshire, these intimate gardens take in panoramic views over rolling countryside. Discover an elegant country house, sculptured topiary, a pretty walled garden, and parkland dotted with ancient trees. Estate walks take you further afield to beech woodlands, farmland and hamlets.

The gardens at Uppark, West Sussex

Uppark 

Perched on a vantage point high on the South Downs ridge, Uppark has far reaching views and intimate gardens.

Enjoying summer across the South Downs

Chalk grassland of the South Downs

Top walks in and around West Sussex 

If you’re in need of a leg-stretch this summer you’ll find no shortage of trails in Sussex. Here are our top walks from all around the county from the Devil's Dyke to Slindon, Petworth Park to Standen. Meander along green hedgerows and woodlands lush with leaves.

The view of river meadows at Woolbeding parkland

Summer wildlife on the South Downs 

Summer is a perfect time to take a stroll and discover all the natural wonders the South Downs has to offer.

The plant centre at Hinton Ampner is full of summer colour

Summer gardens in and around the South Downs  

Our gardens are all at their colourful best during the summer months with vibrant colours, relaxing spaces and breath-taking views. From the summer borders at Woolbeding Gardens, Hinton Ampner and Petworth; come and find a summer garden near you.