South Downs Society

Getting around the South Downs

The South Downs are well-served by public transport. Why not leave the car behind and explore by bus and train? Click here for more information.

A Unique Landscape

The South Downs is a unique landscape, being a remnant of an extensive dome that originally covered much of southern England and the extreme north of France. Erosion over millions of years has created the chalk downs as a remnant of this dome with a steep north-facing scarp slope and a gentle dip-slope to the south. The profile of the scarp and dip-slope was described by Rudyard Kipling as the "blunt, bow-headed, whale-backed downs". Particular features of the Downs are the dry valleys (also known as wind gaps) created by rivers when the water table level was much higher.

At the eastern end the Downs are cut off by the sea, forming the Seven Sisters. At the western end, beyond Butser Hill, the Downs merge into the lower hills of the Hampshire Basin. Four rivers cut through the Downs – the Cuckmere, Ouse, Adur and Arun – providing a different landscape.

Originally covered by forest, predominantly beech wood, the Downs have been chalk grassland for a long time, created by sheep farming. In the Second World War much of this grassland was ploughed and has since remained in cultivation. West of the river Arun, the Downs are more wooded with such features as the yew groves of Kingley Vale, north-west of Chichester.

Although large populations along the coast have led to some encroachment of the Downs, there still remain substantial areas where the beauty of contrasting landscapes can be seen by the visitor.

The South Downs Way was opened in 1972, being the first long-distance bridleway in the country. Originally running from Eastbourne to the Sussex-Hampshire border near Buriton it was later extended into Hampshire and now finishes (or starts!) at Winchester.

The Society produces its own guide (by Harry Comber) which follows the route both ways and has a comprehensive list of accommodation.

It is regularly updated and the latest edition was produced in 2001. "Along the South Downs Way" can be purchased from the office at Pulborough, price £6 post free.

If you would like to order a copy, send us a message from the contact us page.

Useful Links:

www.sussexwt.org.uk Discover more about Sussex Wildlife Trust; our 37 nature reserves (covering over 3400 acres), local conservation issues and events for all the family.

Ditchling Beacon