South Downs Way

The South Downs Way is a long-distance footpath in Hampshire and neighboring counties that runs 160 kilometers from Winchester to Eastbourne. It follows open ridges along chalk formations with occasional views toward the coast and offshore islands.

The route follows trading paths and droveways that merchants and farmers used for centuries to move goods and livestock across the southern chalk ridges. It was officially designated as a National Trail in 1972.

The name refers to the rolling chalk hills that shepherds and travelers crossed for generations. Today walkers follow the same high ground where sheep graze and old field boundaries mark the land.

Experienced cyclists complete the full distance in around three days, while walkers typically spend eight to nine days covering 19 to 24 kilometers (12 to 15 miles) daily. Open sections offer little shade, so sun protection and enough water are recommended.

The total elevation change reaches 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) spread across the full distance, exceeding many alpine hikes. The route crosses five nature reserves where rare chalk grassland supports plants and insects found in few other places.