ADVERTORIAL

Get your walking boots on! Around the country the National Trust is hosting The Great British Walk, which celebrates the beauty of the British autumnal countryside with a series of organised walks.

The South Downs countryside team have put together an invigorating five-day guided walking programme for you. We’ve called it “Stroll the South Downs”, which includes five walks on five days.

Karen Whittaker, Visitor Experience Project Manager of South Downs Countryside adds: “We are very pleased to be part of this national walking festival. Our five guided walks are a great chance to discover this area. Guided by our knowledgeable wardens, you will learn loads of interesting facts about the landscape you are walking through. The South Downs is beautiful countryside and goes through pretty villages, has great views and is abundant with wildlife at all times of year.”

The National Trust is the largest land owner on the South Downs, Britain’s newest National Park, where we own over 6,000 hectares. Over half is open access, giving you the freedom to explore on foot wherever you like.

The South Downs stretches over 70 miles, including countryside, coast, woodland and chalk downland.

It is a destination valued for its rare habitats and wildlife. The National Trust cares for a wide variety of places within the Downs, including Alfriston Clergy House, the first building to be acquired by the National Trust.

To find out more about the National Trust, South Downs coast and countryside in Sussex and around the country, please visit the website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk and search for South Downs.

Where can I get walking...?

Join the Great British Walk and “Stroll The South Downs” with our wardens, from October 15-19. 

All walks start at 10.30am and finish at tea time, and they are between 7 to 14 miles each.

The walks will be at a leisurely pace but have some hills.

The walks cost £5 per walk or £20 for all five. Lunch and refreshments are not provided, transport back to the start will be made available where required. Booking essential on 01243 814554.

• Monday, October 15: Black Down to Woolbeding, start at Swan Barn Farm.
• Tuesday,October 16: Harting Down to Drovers/The Trundle, starting at Harting Down car park.
• Wednesday, October 17: In and around Slindon, starting at Dukes Road car park.
• Thursday, October 18: Warren Hill to Saddlescombe Farm, starting at Warren Hill car park.
• Friday, October 19: Alfriston to Birling Gap, starting at Alfriston Clergy House

For an interactive walk map, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/southdowns .

Get involved:

We couldn’t exist without the help of our volunteers. Over 1,250 people volunteer their time, whether individuals, school groups or other organisations.

If you would like to volunteer please get in touch by calling: 01243 814554 or emailing: slindon@nationaltrust.org.uk