Visiting the South Downs by Train: Best UK National Parks

Winchester Station: Well-Connected Western Station

Amberley Station: Deep in the Heart of the National Park

Walk the South Downs Way

South Downs Way is the only National Trail that lies wholly within a national park, and is regarded as one of the UK’s most challenging national trails. Starting from the National Trust City Mill in Winchester, the trail winds through the national park, before finishing at Holywell shingle beach in Eastbourne. Whether you’re tackling the full route, or walking a small section, the views are stunning the whole way. Cycling is a great way to experience the South Downs Way too, with the whole route taking between two and four days for most cyclists.

Experience nature and culture

Getting outside in unique national parks is the ideal way to relax and restore your calm. The South Downs’ rolling chalk downland is regarded by many as one of the most impressive landscapes in the UK. From Arundel to Rowlands Castle, you’ll encounter miles of thick woodland and secluded forests to bring you back to natural bliss. If you’re looking for cultural experiences in the South Downs, visit the historic Lewes Castle, a Norman stronghold built after the battle of Hastings in 1066.

Take in all the South Downs views

Wherever you are in the South Downs National Park, you’ll have inspiring views to see. Iconic features abound throughout the national park, from Seaford Head, which offers an eastwards panorama of the chalk, to Alfriston in the Cuckmere Valley, regarded as one of the best preserved villages in the National Park, with timber-clad buildings and a traditional flint walled church.

For those wanting to get around the national park on two wheels, there are plenty of bike hire sites around South Downs National Park. Cyclists have some 1,200 kilometres of bridleways to explore, many through forests. Finally, a scenic option in Hampshire is a steam train on the Watercress line from New Alresford to Alton, to relive old traditions and enjoy spectacular views alongside a 10-mile journey.

One of the most delightful landscapes in England, the South Downs National Park has an abundance of scenic places to camp, as well as cosy B&Bs to suit every taste. If you’re walking or cycling the South Downs Way you’ll have no trouble finding suitable accommodation options along the route. At either end of the trail in Winchester and Eastbourne, there are a wide range of inspiring places to stay, from coastal apartments to boutique hotels.

When is the best time of year to visit the South Downs?

If you’re planning on walking in the South Downs National Park, longer daylight hours and more favourable weather conditions push most hikers to visit in the summer months. A wonderful time to get outside and explore miles of unique scenery, Summer is less likely to be rainy too. On warm Summer days, you can also enjoy the South Downs differently by sipping English wine in one of several Hampshire and Sussex vineyards that produce small-batch vintages with distinctive orchard and elderflower flavours.

What to pack on your car-free adventure

Comfortable shoes, waterproofs, and (depending on the time of year) warm layers and thermals are travel basics for English walking holidays. On your South Downs adventure, you should also bring a water bottle and travel cup to make sure you stay hydrated and to reduce your environmental impact. Portable phone chargers are a great modern addition to the travel kit, whether solar-powered, USB, or battery pack, keep your tech charged up for GPS navigation, photos, or whatever else you need.

Leave no trace on the South Downs

When visiting the UK’s most wild landscapes, always stick to paths and marked trails, where appropriate, to avoid causing harm to the park’s nature and biodiversity. Don’t forget to take your waste away with you – or better yet, avoid creating any in the first place by bringing reusable crockery and cutlery, rather than relying on single-use disposables. Starting your national park trip by taking the train to the South Downs is already the most sustainable way to arrive!

Local Information and Visitor Centres

Home of the National Park Authority, the South Downs Centre in Midhurst is the place to go to access local knowledge, maps, travel tips, and more. Located in the heart of the South Downs National Park, the South Downs Centre offers the chance to learn about the history of the landscape and the people who look after it; it is also a community hub and green conference venue. Other information points are spread around the region, from the Seven Sisters Visitor Centre at Exceat, to Chichester Tourist Information Centre, which is built above the remains of the Roman bath house.

Buy Cheap Train Tickets

Whatever plan you have in the national park, get there in style and for less by taking the train to the South Downs. When you buy cheap tickets from TrainPal, you can save even more on your tickets: with no booking fees, advance fares, and Railcard or Group Saver discounts, you can take an unforgettable trip that doesn’t cost the earth! 

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