Trail from Alfriston offers scenic views of South Downs

On a clear autumn day, Chris Neal ventured to the village of Alfriston, near Seaford, to undertake a nine-mile walk over the South Downs.

The trail offers a number of scenic and sweeping panoramic views of the rolling hills across the Downs.

A canopy of trees over a path (Image: Chris Neal) One of Chris’s photos conveys the walk's serene nature while passing through a canopy of trees.

Along the way, Chris captured a herd of sheep gathered on the Long Man of Wilmington, a mysterious figure carved into the chalk of the South Downs.

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The site’s origins are unknown, with some believing it was carved between the 11th and 15th century, while others say the man is prehistoric.

Three buzzards circle overhead (Image: Chris Neal) Chris shot some great pictures of a trio of buzzards flying overhead, who he said circled above him on the final stretch of his trek.

Alfriston’s history can be traced back to the fifth century when settlements in the area began to thrive, with a market town most likely developing in the Middle Ages.

Now, Alfriston, next to the Cuckmere River, is a charming village containing a mediaeval high street, pubs, boutiques and more.