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SOUTHDOWNSVIEW SPRING/SUMMER 2018
SHARING STORIES FROM BRITAIN’S NEWEST NATIONAL PARK
WHAT TO SEE AND DO Page 12
WOODLAND WONDERS Page 16
WALKING FOR HEALTH Page 18
Sign up for the South Downs newsletter at southdowns.gov.uk/newsletter
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win a family ticket
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FREE
THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK
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WELCOME...To the South Downs National Park.
Spring and summer are a great time to get outside and explore all that the South Downs National Park has to offer. With over 3,300km of rights of way there is a multitude of routes, ancient
drove ways and well-worn paths to explore on foot, by bike or on horseback. We all know the health benefits of getting out in the great outdoors and pages 18 & 19 give you some great suggestions for how to go about it.
In the centre pages you’ll find a map of the whole National Park with lots of ideas for places to visit and great opportunities for adventure over the summer months. For even more ideas there is the usual bumper pull out of Spring / Summer events happening in the National Park (pages 10–15).
We are also showcasing what makes our woodlands special (page 16), how to enjoy our precious
heathlands (page 5) and how important our chalk grassland is to our landscape, the wildlife that lives there and the impact that it has on the water that we drink (pages 6 & 7).
To further highlight the importance of chalk grassland in the South Downs, Discover National Parks Week kicks off on July 22 with our free Flagship Wild Chalk Family Fun Day at East Brighton Park. Find out more about this and the other events happening during the week, on page 19.
There is also a feature about one of our partners, Marwell Zoo (page 20) giving details of their new Tropical House opening in the spring and a competition offering an opportunity to win a family ticket to visit them.
We celebrate the beauty of the National Park by sharing with you the winners of 2017/18’s photo competition with the theme ‘Growing Places’. We had some fantastic entries and I’m sure you will agree when you see the four winners on page 4. If you fancy your chances then enter this year’s competition (see page 4 for details).
This edition we have decided to focus not on local food as we usually do, but on the fantastic beverages produced in the South Downs from still and sparkling wine and cider, to locally brewed real ale and even natural mineral water. Drink it all in on page 21.
Finally, if you have ever come across one of our rangers out in the field you may have wondered what they actually do in a day. Page 23 gives a bit of clue. A day enjoying the beauty of the South Downs National Park sounds like fun to me.
CONTENTSWHAT THE NATIONAL PARK DOES FOR YOU .............................3
WINNING PICTURES FROM THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK PHOTO COMPETITION 2017/18 ....4
HEATHLANDS REUNITED ................5
CHALK GRASSLAND – RARE AS RAINFOREST ..................................6
HOW PRECIOUS IS YOUR WATER? ..7
WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MEND THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY ..............8
SHOW YOUR LOVE FOR THE NATIONAL PARK .............................9
2018 EVENTS SPRING/SUMMER ....10
WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO IN THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK ...........................12
WOODLAND WONDERS ..............16
HEALTH WALKS ............................18
WHERE TO WALK IN THE NATIONAL PARK THIS SPRING/SUMMER .........19
MARWELL ZOO ............................20
DRINK LOCAL ..............................21
NATIONAL PARK ENTRY SIGNS .....22
RANGER DIARY ............................23
TAKE THE LEAD ............................24
INFORMATION POINTSAldershot Visitor Information Centre visit-hampshire.co.uk 01252 320968Arundel Visitor Information Point arundel.org.uk 01903 885866Bognor Regis Visitor Information Point sussexbythesea.comBrighton Tourist Information Point visitbrighton.com 01273 290337Burgess Hill Tourist Information Centre burgesshill.gov.uk/leisuretourism 01444 238202Chichester Tourist Information Centre visitchichester.org 01243 775888Eastbourne Tourist Information Centre visiteastbourne.com 01323 415415
Haslemere Visitor Information Centre haslemere.com/vic 01428 645425Horsham Visitor Information Centre visithorsham.co.uk 01403 597474Lewes Tourist Information Centre staylewes.org 01273 483448Littlehampton Tourist Information Centre lookandsea.co.uk 01903 718984Seaford Tourist Information Centre seafordtown.co.uk 01323 897426Worthing Visitor Information Centre discoverworthing.uk01903 221066Winchester City Mill and Shopvisitwinchester.co.uk/winchester-city-mill-shop 01962 870057Winchester Tourist Information Centre visitwinchester.co.uk 01962 840500
SIGN UP TO THE SOUTH DOWNS NEWSLETTER AND WIN PRIZESKeep up to date with the latest news and events from the South Downs National Park.Every month you’ll have the chance to win a prize to help you enjoy the
National Park even more – from days out to outdoor kit.Find out more and sign up at southdowns.gov.uk/newsletter
THE SOUTH DOWNS CENTRE
The home of the National Park Authority, the South Downs Centre in Midhurst is also a community hub, visitor information centre, an exhibition about the National Park and a green conference centre.
South Downs Centre, Midhurst GU29 9DH 01730 814810
OPENING HOURSMonday to Thursday: 09:00–17:00 Friday: 09:00–16:30 Saturday & Bank Holidays: (open from Easter to end of October only): 09:00–13:00
southdowns.gov.uk
Charlie Hellewell Editor
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THE FUTUREOur farmers and land managers are the custodians of the wonderful ‘natural capital’ of the South Downs; the clean air, the healthy soil and chalk aquifers which give rise to so many of the benefits we probably take for granted, but which we need to value more and more as our population grows.
Brexit will bring about a change to the way in which farm subsidies are awarded, but it is vital that they continue to build on the work farmers already put in to safeguard the precious ‘natural capital’ of the National Park.
WHAT THE NATIONAL PARK DOES FOR YOUThe South Downs are often referred to as the lungs of south-east England, a space to breathe and escape the bustle of city life. It is easy to underestimate the benefits we all get from the natural environment.
FRESH AIR
With great public transport links it has never been easier to explore the South Downs National Park and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of being out and about in this exhilarating landscape.
FRESH WATER
The iconic chalk hills of the South Downs act as a huge sponge which filters and stores rainwater, feeds rivers and streams, supports wildlife and provides fresh water for people and industry.
FRESH FOOD
The South Downs are blessed with many fine food and drink producers and outlets where visitors can buy or eat local produce. While eating this food and drink, we can appreciate the landscape that helped create it.
Are you ready for an adventure?
1 Follow in the footsteps of Gilbert White, the pioneering 18th Century
British naturalist by completing some or all of the 6 mile figure-of-eight Gilbert White Literary Walk near Selborne. Visit easthants.gov.uk/gilbert-white-literary-walk-1-mb
2 Wander the streets of historic Lewes and explore one of the earliest
Norman strongholds in England – Lewes Castle. Check out this and other car-free days-out on our website southdowns.gov.uk/go-southdowns
3 Get the wind in your hair, conquer the challenging slopes, enjoy
the exhilarating descents and embrace the breathtaking landscapes as you cycle part of the South Downs Way. Visit southdowns.gov.uk/mountainbikeguide
4 If the sea is your thing then walk along the Sussex Heritage Coast
stretching from Eastbourne, along the iconic chalk cliffs of Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, past Cuckmere Haven and on to Splash Point at Seaford. Don’t forget to also look inland and appreciate the gently rolling downs and valleys.
5 Experience the stunning regal sight of heather in bloom during
August and September at your local heath. Try Iping Common near Midhurst or Chapel Common near Liphook. Listen for skylarks or spot a sand lizard basking.
6 Discover the twisted and ancient yew trees at Kingley
Vale National Nature Reserve near Chichester. Several of the distinctive gnarled yews are among the oldest living things in Britain – at over 500 years old.
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MAKE THE MOST OF IT
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WINNING PICTURES FROM THE SOUTH DOWNS PHOTO COMPETITION 2017/18A golden harvest, a band of curious cows and a stark winter fieldOur theme, Growing Places, inspired a record number of entries for the 2017/18 photo competition but Ron De’Ath was the worthy winner for his extraordinary composition capturing the shifting seasons from summer to autumn.
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THINK YOU CAN DO BETTER? ENTER THE SOUTH DOWNS PHOTO COMPETITION 2018-19Theme: Perfectly SeasonedOur judges are looking for something different. Can you capture a fresh perspective on the changing seasons in the National Park? Impress them to win the first prize of £250.Competition closes at midday on Friday 19 October 2018. To enter, and for full terms and conditions visit:southdowns.gov.uk/enter-the-south-downs-photo-competition
THANK YOUA huge thank you to our competition judges: Steve Watkins, editor of Outdoor Photography magazine; local photographer and gallery owner Finn Hopson; Rachael Talibart, winner of the Sunday Times Magazine’s Landscape Photographer of the Year in 2016; Nick Heasman, SDNPA Countryside & Policy Manager and Doug Jones, SDNPA Member.
The judges were impressed by the bold, almost human, composition and high level of detail in Dominic Vacher’s photo ‘Staredown’. Three of the cattle are Sussex Red, a traditional local rare breed, which have been grazed in this part of the country since the Bronze Age.
Ron De’Ath subverted what could have been a conventional harvest shot – making the unusual choice to frame the picture vertically and leave out the sky entirely. The result , entitled ‘Harvest Home’, is a wonderful winding journey through chalk grassland, ploughed earth and woodland, past farm house and field margins and on to freshly harvested crops, leaving no doubt that people live and work in this landscape.
‘Sussex Farming’ by Tom Hard. An atmospheric shot with great depth and light that completely captures the spirit of the South Downs as a growing place. This image was selected as the People’s Choice following an online survey showcasing the shortlisted photographs.
Simon Verrall’s photo ‘Rolling Down’ is a simple, modern composition that captures a complicated tale of farming in the South Downs. At first glance this image might look stark but here the light soil is everything and the farmer is carefully cultivating the ground using a modern practice called ‘conservation tillage’. Come spring, this field will certainly be a place that grows and hopefully home to rare farmland birds such as skylark.
WIN
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PEOPLE’SCHOICE
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ENJOY THE HEATHLANDSOnly 1 per cent of our precious heathland habitat remains in the South Downs National Park......mostly separated into small ‘islands’ where isolated plants and animals are far more vulnerable to local extinction. So in 2016, with 10 other partner organisations we decided to do something about it!
The Heritage Lottery Funded project Heathlands Reunited has ambitious plans to restore and
reunite 41 rare heathland sites in the South Downs, creating up to 1,500 football pitches worth of heathland.
Purple ParadiseTheir ease of access, the sandy soils underfoot, combined with the striking purple heather make heathlands precious sites for recreation. With a focus on partner and community
involvement, this project aims to protect and improve key heathland sites, not only for the rare plants and animals that call them home, but for walkers, birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Active managementHeathlands only exist today because of human intervention over thousands of years. This means that if heathlands aren’t actively managed by people – by local communities, conservation groups, the National Park Authority or others – they will be lost along with the rare and endangered species that live there.
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HEATHLAND ARTIST COMMISSIONEDOver the past few months we’ve been asking local communities to share their stories about the history and heritage of their local heathlands to help inspire new pieces of art commissioned from artist Graeme Mitcheson. The works will link seven heathland sites in the
National Park to tell the story of why heaths are so important – reflecting what each community values about their heath – from their history and
past economic importance to their rare plants and animals. For more detail: southdowns.gov.uk/heathlands-reunited
REMEMBER TO ‘TAKE THE LEAD’ ON THE HEATHSEE THE BACK PAGE FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRETS OF THE HEATH8 & 9 September 2018 (10:00–17:00)
Come and learn about the history of the heath. A free family event at Petersfield Heath over two days with educational activities for the whole family, re-enactors and birds of prey display.
For details of this and other heathland events over the summer months see the event pages (pages 10–15) or southdowns.gov.uk/events
For volunteering opportunities visit: southdowns.gov.uk/heathlands-reunited
FREEFAMILY EVENT
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HEATHLAND WILDLIFE TO SPOT
Dartford warbler Natterjack toad Sand lizard Bell heather Silver-studded blue Adder
Examples of Graeme’s work
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CHALK GRASSLAND – RARE AS RAINFORESTThe iconic chalk downland of the South Downs National Park was once widespread. Today, much of this precious habitat has been lost, and now only makes up 4 per cent of the National Park. During World War II many of the chalk grassland areas in the South Downs were ploughed up for food production and have since remained in cultivation. Other chalk grassland sites have been lost to development or through lack of management.
We need to look after what is left. Chalk grassland only occurs on thin soils covering chalk rocks, as in the South Downs. As rainwater soaks through the chalk it washes
away many of the minerals normally needed for plants to grow, so over many centuries, very specialised plants have evolved that can cope with this poor soil, and many insects, bees and butterflies have evolved with them. The plants are low growing, and are adapted to being grazed by rabbits and sheep, so it is important to keep up this grazing regime, to maintain the conditions under which these unique plants thrive.
Rich wildlife habitatUp to 45 species of flowering plants can be found in one square metre
of chalk grassland – it has been called the European equivalent of tropical rainforest. This diversity of plants means that there are also many types of insect. You may find rare plants such as the round-headed rampion, a variety of orchids such as the pyramidal orchid and butterflies including the Adonis blue and chalk hill blue. Chalk grassland also provides feeding and breeding habitat for a number of threatened birds such as the stone curlew, corn bunting, turtle dove and skylark. It’s worth protecting.
WILD CHALK FAMILY FUN DAYTo kick off National Parks Week, join us to celebrate the wildlife, history and amazing water filtering properties of our chalk grassland at East Brighton Park near Sheepcote Valley, Brighton.
Sunday 22 July
11:00–17:00Sponsored by:
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Adonis blue Pyramidal orchid Round headed rampion Buff-tailed bumblebee & hoverfly
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A WORD ABOUT WATERDid you know that most of the water we use in the south east comes from the chalk rock beneath our feet? Chalk acts like a massive sponge, soaking up rainwater as it falls on the surface above and holding it underground in what is known as an aquifer. The quality of the groundwater stored in the aquifer is vitally important to us. Unlike other areas around the country which
may source water from reservoirs and rivers, water companies around Brighton pump the water out of the aquifer which then becomes the water we drink and bathe in as well as the water which grows our food. It also flows into some streams, rivers and wetlands as well as passing
directly out of the chalk rock into the sea. Its quality is therefore important not only to us but to wildlife too.
PROTECTING YOUR WATERChalk can filter out some impurities, but pollution can still get through. Nitrates are a particular concern, not just in the South Downs National Park, but even globally.
Brighton ChaMP (Chalk Management Partnership) for Water is a project taking action to tackle pollution threatening the
chalk groundwater. It’s working with farmers to reduce nitrates from fertilisers and manure flushing through soil into the aquifer. One way to do this is to plant cover crops over winter rather than leaving the soil bare. These crops can take up excess nitrates in the soil and use them to grow, effectively locking them up and preventing them reaching the precious groundwater.
Driving our cars also contributes to pollution. Brake pads and tyres wear down releasing lead, copper and zinc. Fuel and oils sometimes spill onto the roads, and air pollution can settle onto the ground. This toxic mix is then washed into drains which can be connected to the aquifer. ChaMP is creating rainscapes as one solution. Rainscapes are planted areas which receive this polluted water and then bacteria naturally found in soil and plant roots cleans it up.
4,774in Brighton, potentially
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WHO MAKES UP THE ChaMP PARTNERSHIP?ChaMP is a partnership between the South Downs National Park and the following agencies:
Working together with other organisations and landowners we are striving to protect our precious groundwater for many years to come. brightonchamp.org.uk
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20,000 people walk, cycle or ride the 100 mile length each year and millions more will explore sections of the trail. This year we’re asking everyone who loves using it to help raise £120,000 to mend broken sections of the trail.
“We know how much people love the South Downs Way,” says Andy Gattiker, South Downs Way National Trail lead officer. “You share glorious photos and stories with us every day – now we’re asking for your help to mend it.”
“Fifteen thousand pairs of boots, 10,000 tyres and 800 hooves travelling the length of the trail each year cause a lot of wear and tear! Existing funding allows us to make most repairs but there are a number
of significant projects which, because they are on more remote sections of the path, are too expensive to tackle using existing funds. Each year, as the erosion and mud gets worse, they get more damaged and become harder to fix.”
The ‘Mend our Way’ campaign is being run by the South Downs National Park Trust, a new charity which works with partners to protect the National Park for future generations. Find out more and pledge your support at southdowns.gov.uk/mendourway
WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE? Old Winchester Hill (Hampshire)One of the most iconic hills in the Hampshire Downs, a Scheduled Ancient Monument Fort as well as a National Nature Reserve. Every winter the route up to Old Winchester Hill becomes a slippery muddy strip. £50,000 will pay to strip away the mud and replace the surface with stones.
Hyden Lane (near Butser Hill, Hampshire)Hyden Lane is the highest point on the chalk ridge of the South Downs and busy year round but poor drainage on the path is also a problem here. Large puddles of standing water are often trapped on the track and cause the surface to break up quickly. £30,000 will pay for additional limestone scalpings to form a raised, cambered track.
Millpond Bottom (Pen Hill, West Sussex)This is a remote part of the South Downs Way, popular for its tranquil setting and stunning views. £15,000 is needed to properly mend the churned up chalk track.
Plumpton Plain (near Ditchling Beacon, East Sussex)This busy section lies between Ditchling Beacon, one of the highest points on the South Downs Way, and the historic county town of Lewes. Water sits on the almost level path so it will take £25,000 to repair and strengthen it as well as adding drainage.
WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MEND THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY!
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100 mile national trail, runs the length of the National Park.
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‘Mend our Way’ is part of the national ‘Make a Million’ initiative, run by the British Mountaineering Council, seeking to raise £1,000,000 for some of the UK’s most treasured trails. Find out more at: mendmountains.thebmc.co.uk
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LOVE YOUR NATIONAL PARKFor the price of just a coffee we could create a square metre of wildflower meadow, providing a nectar source for bees and butterflies.
The UK’s newest National Park serves one of the busiest parts of the UK with 2 million people living within 5 kilometres.
As more people use and benefit from the National Park, it is coming under increasing pressure and can only be conserved through the
support and care of those who love it.
The South Downs National Park Trust is a new, independent charity set up to work with partners to “enhance and protect the South Downs National Park for future generations”. At its launch
in October 2017 actor Hugh Bonneville, star of ITV’s Downton Abbey and the Paddington movies, showed his support for the Trust. “The South Downs has been my home on and off for 40 years. Like thousands of others, locals and visitors alike, I appreciate the moments for reflection and inspiration that the South Downs National Park gives me.
“The South Downs National Park Trust is a great opportunity for us to give something back, to help care for the National Park and help more people gain access to it and enjoy it.”
southdownstrust.org.uk
HOW TO HELP“By donating through our website or leaving a lasting gift in your will you can show your love for the National Park. Or for the price of a cinema ticket you could help a child take part in an outdoor education activity that helps them discover the National Park for the first time.”
Toni Shaw, Trustee for the South Downs National Park Trust.
To donate: visit southdownstrust.org.uk
SOUTH DOWNS GEOTOUR The South Downs GeoTour is England’s first GeoTour, and an exciting way to discover the hidden gems of this special landscape.There are 30 geocaches in the tour. Join in the challenge to earn your own souvenir GeoCoin – made especially for us by our sponsors Pulse72. Visit southdowns.gov.uk/geotour to find out more and download your passport.
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APRIL
31 MARCH–15 APRILDusty’s Giant Duck HuntWWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PBwwt.org.uk/arundel01903 881530 General admission
31 MARCH & 1 APRILLambing Open DaySaddlescombe Farm, BN45 7DEcamillaandroly.co.uk01273 857062 Tickets: Family of 4 £20, Adults £8, Child £4, Under 2s FREE
1–2 APRIL Easter Family FunParham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HSparhaminsussex.co.uk 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, Child £6, Under 5s FREE
10 MARCH–15 APRIL Lambing Time at CoombesChurch Farm, Coombes, Lancing, Sussex BN15 0RScoombes.co.uk01273 452028 Tickets: Adults £3, Child £2. Tractor rides £2.50
29 MARCH–16 APRILEaster Holiday Activities: Wild in Winchester with the Butterfly ConservationWinchester Science Centre SO21 1HZwinchestersciencecentre.org01962 863791 FREE with General Admission tickets
29 MARCH–16 APRILWild Woodies Holiday ClubsVarious locations in the National [email protected] Tickets: See details online
30 MARCH–15 APRILGiant Egg TrailMarwell Zoo, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JHmarwell.org.uk/zoo/01962 777407
30 MARCH–2 APRIL Meet the Easter BunnyMarwell Zoo, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JHmarwell.org.uk/zoo/01962 7774071 APRIL EVERY DAY 10.30–16.30 (SUBJECT TO VOLUNTEER
AVAILABILITY)Seven Sisters Visitor Centre OpeningSeven Sisters Country Park, Exceat, Seaford, East Sussex, BN25 4ADsevensisters.org.uk0345 6080193 FREE ADMISSION
1–2 APRIL Easter Family FunParham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HSparhaminsussex.co.uk 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, Child £6, Under 5s FREE
FROM 1 MARCHNature TotsVarious locations in the National Parksussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/what-we-do/environmental-education/[email protected] Tickets: See details online
3–15 APRIL Spring Nature trailNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 General admission
3–13 APRILSigns of Spring family trailNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Donations only
6 APRIL Devil’s Dyke Egg rolling competitionNational Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJnationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on 01273 857981 Tickets: £1 per egg
7–8 APRILThe Fabulous Raven Tor Living History GroupBignor Roman Villa, Pulborough RH20 1PHbignorromanvilla.co.uk 01798 869259 Tickets: Adults £6, Groups >10 £5, Under 16 £3.50, Groups >10 £2.50
7 APRILBeginner Wood CarvingWWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PBwwt.org.uk/arundel01903 881530 Tickets: £45
7 APRIL Spring animals at Pound CommonNational Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RRnationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on 01730 816638 Tickets: Adults £5, Child £3
9 APRILDawn Chorus WalkWWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PBwwt.org.uk/arundel01903 881530 Tickets: £10
12 APRIL Welcoming in the wheatears on the Lewes DownsLewes Downs (meet at BN7 2AN)sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/[email protected] 783 0891 (on day only) Tickets: Donation please (SWT members free)
14 APRIL Langham Monthly Brewery Tours (other dates available by appointment)Langham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BUlanghambrewery.co.uk 01798 860861 Tickets: Tours £12 approx. 2 hours (generous samples). Food available.
14 APRIL Rockpool rambleNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on 01323 423197 Tickets: £4
15 APRILSpring Industrial TrainsAmberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9LTamberleymuseum.co.uk01798 831370 Tickets: Adults £12.50, Child £7.00
17 APRIL Garden tourNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 General admission
18 APRIL Space LectureWinchester Science Centre SO21 1HZwinchestersciencecentre.org01962 863791 Tickets: 4:30pm Adults £8, Concessions £6, 6:30pm Adults £10, Concessions £8.
19 APRIL Twilight TourNational Trust Monk’s House, Rodmell, near Lewes. BN7 3HFnationaltrust.org.uk/monks-house/whats-on01273 474760 Tickets: Booking essential £17.50
20 APRIL Welcoming in the wheatears at Seaford Head Seaford Head (nearest postcode BN25 4QJ)sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/[email protected] 783 0891 (on day only) Tickets: FREE
20 APRIL Spring beach clean with Marine Conservation SocietyNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 FREE ADMISSION
MAY
22 & 29 APRIL, 6 MAYBluebell Wood TrainsHollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, Hants GU30 7LPhollycombe.co.uk01428 724900 Tickets: Adults £16, Senior £14, Child £12. Family tickets available.
22 APRIL & 20 MAYSeven Sisters Archaeology walksNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Tickets: £4
22 APRIL Saddlescombe Farm open dayNational Trust Saddlescombe Rd, near Brighton, West Sussex BN45 7DEnationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on01273 857981 Tickets: Adults £5, Child £3, Family £13
10 March – 15 April
LAMBING TIME AT COOMBES Where: Come and see 800 ewes lambing and 80 Sussex cows calving at Coombes Farm, Lancing, Sussex BN15 0RS. Also tractor rides to the top of the downs to see the animals more closely and the fantastic views.Details: coombes.co.uk
NATIONAL TRUST EASTER EGG TRAILS
30 MARCH–2 APRILCadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Monk’s HouseNational Trust Monk’s House, Rodmell, near Lewes. BN7 3HFnationaltrust.org.uk/monks-house/whats-on01273 474760 Admission + £1.50 per trail
31 MARCH Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Swan Barn FarmNational Trust Swan Barn Farm, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 2HUnationaltrust.org.uk/swan-barn-farm/whats-on01428 652359 FREE ADMISSION
30 MARCH–2 APRILCadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Alfriston Clergy HouseNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex. BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 Admission + £2 per trail
30 MARCH–2 APRILCadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Birling GapNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussx. BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Admission + £3.50 per trail
31 MARCH–2 APRILCadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Devil’s DykeNational Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex. BN1 8YJnationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on01273 857981 Admission + £3 per trail
1 APRIL Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Woolbeding ParklandNational Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RRnationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on01730 816638 Admission + £3 per trail
30 MARCH–15 APRILCadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Hinton AmpnerNational Trust Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0LAnationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner/whats-on01962 771305 Admission + £2 per trail
30 MARCH–15 APRILCadbury Easter Egg Hunt at PetworthNational Trust Petworth House & Park, Petworth, West Sussex GU28 9LRnationaltrust.org.uk/petworth-house-and-park/whats-on01798 342207 Admission + £3 per trail
30 MARCH–15 APRILCadbury Easter Egg Hunt at UpparkNational Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield GU31 5QRnationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on01730 825415 Admission + £2 per trail
Bank holiday Monday 28 May
GILBERT WHITE’S HOUSE – NATURE FESTIVAL Where: Gilbert White’s House, High Street, Selborne, Hampshire GU34 3JHDetails: A perfect day out for inquisitive kids. Back for its third year the popular Nature Festival pulls together many nature and wildlife organisations and experts who will be running activities, stalls, talks and tours through the day. gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk
2018 EVENTS SPRING/SUMMER (cont. page 14)
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22 APRIL Slindon’s secret bluebells guided walkNational Trust Slindon Estate, West Sussex BN18 0RHnationaltrust.org.uk/slindon-estate/whats-on01243 814730 Tickets: Adult £4, Child £2
28 APRILLive@Langhams Evening of Music and entertainmentLangham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BUlanghambrewery.co.uk 01798 860861 FREE ADMISSION
24 & 25 MARCH, 28 & 29 APRIL, 26 & 27 MAYCostume Encounters at PetworthNational Trust Petworth House & Park, Petworth, West Sussex GU28 9LRnationaltrust.org.uk/petworth-house-and-park/whats-on01798 342207 General admission
02 MAY Manors, meanders and majesty guided walkNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 Tickets: Admission + Adults £4, Child £3
5 MAYWood from the TreesAmberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9LTamberleymuseum.co.uk01798 831370 Tickets: Adults £12.50, Child £7
FROM 5 MAY Elizabeth I live: A Woman Ahead of Her TimeNational Trust Petworth House & Park, Petworth, West Sussex GU28 9LRnationaltrust.org.uk/petworth-house-and-park/whats-on01798 342207 General admission
5 MAY–2 SEPTEMBERWomen of Uppark – In her Shoes National Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield GU31 5QRnationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on01730 825415 General admission
6–7 MAYMagic Lantern ShowsHollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, Hants GU30 7LPhollycombe.co.uk01428 724900 Tickets: Adults £16, Senior £14, Child £12. Family tickets available.
18 APRIL, 9 MAY, 13 JUNE Space LectureWinchester Science Centre SO21 1HZwinchestersciencecentre.org01962 863791 Tickets: 4:30pm Adults £8, Concessions £6, 6:30pm Adults £10, Concessions £8.
11 MAYSpring on Seaford Head Seaford Head (nearest postcode BN25 4QJ)sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/[email protected] 783 0891 (on day only) Tickets: FREE
12–13 MAYThe Fabulous Raven Tor Living History GroupBignor Roman Villa, Pulborough RH20 1PHbignorromanvilla.co.uk 01798 869259 Tickets: Adults £6, Groups >10 £5, Under 16 £3.50, Groups >10 £2.50
12 MAYMinis at the QuarryAmberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9LTamberleymuseum.co.uk01798 831370 Tickets: Adult £12.50/Child £7.00
12 MAY Langham Monthly Brewery ToursLangham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BUlanghambrewery.co.uk 01798 860861 Tickets: Tours £12 take 2 hours (generous samples). Food available.
13 MAYSouth Downs Green FairSustainability Centre, East Meon, GU32 1HRsustainability-centre.org/Adults-courses.html 01730 823166 Tickets: Adult £8/Child £3.50
15 MAY Garden tourNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 General admission
16–27 MAYBushcraft Overnight SurvivalSustainability Centre, East Meon, GU32 1HRsustainability-centre.org/Adults-courses.html 01730 823166 Tickets: £95
19–20 MAYHome Front WeekendAmberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9LTamberleymuseum.co.uk01798 831370 Tickets: Adults £12.50, Child £7
22 APRIL & 20 MAYSeven Sisters Archaeology walksNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Tickets £4
12 & 23 MAYQE CyclefestQueen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QEhargrovescycles.co.uk/hub/events/qe-cyclefest/0782 490 1988/0772 164 2284 Tickets: Register online
26 MAY–3 JUNENew Life Halfterm ActivitiesWWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PBwwt.org.uk/arundel01903 881530 General admission
26–28 MAYTraditional Crafts WeekendAmberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9LTamberleymuseum.co.uk01798 831370 Tickets: Adults £12.50, Child £7
26–28 MAYHollycombe Steam FestivalHollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, Hants GU30 7LPhollycombe.co.uk01428 724900 Tickets: Adults £16, Senior £14, Child £12. Family tickets available.
26 MAY–3 JUNEHarriet & her chickens family garden trailNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 General admission
26 MAY Rockpool rambleNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Tickets: £4
26 MAY–3 JUNEMay half-term trailNational Trust Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0LAnationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner/whats-on01962 771305 General admission + suggested donation £1
26 MAY–3 JUNEMay half-term trailNational Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield GU31 5QRnationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on01730 825415 General admission + £1 per trai
26 MAY After Dark (18+ only)Winchester Science Centre SO21 1HZwinchestersciencecentre.org01962 863791 Tickets: £14.50
26 MAY–3 JUNENew Life Halfterm ActivitiesWWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PBwwt.org.uk/arundel01903 881530 General admission
26 MAY–3 JUNETop Trumps ChallengeMarwell Zoo, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JHmarwell.org.uk/zoo/01962 777407
16–27 MAYBushcraft Overnight SurvivalSustainability Centre, East Meon, GU32 1HRsustainability-centre.org/Adults-courses.html 01730 823166 Tickets: £95
28 MAY–1 JUN50 things to do before you’re 11 3/4 trailNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Donations only
28 MAY Saddlescombe Farm clay oven pizza makingNational Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJnationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential Adults £12, Child £6
28 MAY Nature Festival 2018 Gilbert White & The Oates Collection, Selborne, Hampshire GU34 3JHgilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk01420 511275 Tickets: £7 Adults, £3 Children
29 MAYMini Secrets of the HeathShortheath Common, Bordonsouthdowns.gov.uk/[email protected] 819320 FREE ADMISSION
31 MAY Meet the CattleLiss Forest Car Park, Liss, Hampshiresouthdowns.gov.uk/[email protected] 819320 FREE ADMISSION
5 MAY–2 SEPTEMBERWomen of Uppark – In her Shoes National Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield GU31 5QRnationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on01730 825415 General admission
JUNE
2–3 JUNEThe Fabulous Raven Tor Living History GroupBignor Roman Villa, Pulborough RH20 1PHbignorromanvilla.co.uk 01798 869259 Tickets: Adults £6, Groups >10 £5, Under 16 £3.50, Groups >10 £2.50
2 JUNEHit the Trail – Explore the Meon ValleyMeon Valley Trail – see page 19southdowns.gov.uk/eventsFREE ADMISSION
26 MAY–3 JUNENew Life Half-term ActivitiesWWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PBwwt.org.uk/arundel01903 881530 General admission
06 JUNE Drovers, druids and domesday guided walkNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 General admission + Adults £4, Child £3
8–14 JUNEOpen Cabinet WeekNational Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield GU31 5QRnationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on01730 825415 General admission
9 JUNE Rockpool rambleNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Tickets: £4
9 & 10 JUNEWood Engraving WeekendNational Trust Monk’s House, Rodmell, near Lewes. BN7 3HFnationaltrust.org.uk/monks-house/whats-on0344 249 1895 Tickets: £145 Booking essential
10 JUNE Wolstonbury orchid safariNational Trust Saddlescombe Rd, near Brighton, West Sussex BN45 7DEnationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential all £10
12 JUNE Nightjar and woodcock walk at Older HillNational Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RRnationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on01730 816638 Tickets: £3
14 April, 12 May, 23 June
LANGHAM BREWERYDetails: Book up one of the Langham Monthly Brewery tours (other dates available by appointment) and try some generous samples of their locally brewed craft ale on the way round.Where: Langham Brewery, The Granary, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BUlanghambrewery.co.uk
10 June
WINCHESTER CRITERIUM & CYCLEFEST 2018Where: Winchester City Centre Details: Streets will close for a day of all things cycling, with spectacular racing and a range of activities for all the family, including the South Downs National Park Family Ride. There will be a ‘Discover the South Downs National Park’ exhibition area in Abbey Gardens full of displays and activities to help you understand more about what there is to see and do in the South Downs.To find out more and enter a bike ride or race visitwinchestercriterium.orgFREE ADMISSION
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M3
ENGLISH CHANNE L0 10 km
N
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N
A285
A285 A29
A284
A29
A27
A283
A281
A272A272
A283
A275
A26
A259
A27
A259
A24
A23
A27
A31
A325
A31
A272
A32
A31
M3
A3(M
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M27 A3
A272
A23
A264
A29A272
M3
M23
M23A22
A26
A22
A272
A26
A265
A267
A27
A22
A22
A22
River Rother
River Meon
River Itchen
River Arun
River Adur River Ouse
Cuckmere River
View to Old Winchester Hill, Hampshire East Meon, Hampshire Little Butser , Hampshire Arundel Castle, West Sussex Cissbury Ring, West Sussex View from Ditchling Beacon, East Sussex Seven Sisters, East Sussex
BASINGSTOKE
ALDERSHOTGUILDFOR D
DORKING
Cuckfield
LingfieldCharlwood SmallfieldGodalming
Milford
Hindhead
Wrecclesham
Hailsham
HeathfieldHurstpierpoint
EASTBOURNE
Alfriston
LEWES
Fulking
East Dean
DitchlingSteyning
Findon
Singleton
Seaford
Lavant
Newhaven
Rottingdean
HaywardsHeath
EASTGRINSTEAD
Horsham
CRAWLEY
WisboroughGreen
Crowborough
Uckfield
Cranleigh
Billingshurst
Selborne
Upham
Twyford
ShirrellHeath
Wickham
Bishop’sWaltham
Eastleigh Bishopstoke
Havant
WINCHESTER
CHICHESTER Barnham
BOGNOR REGIS
LITTLEHAMPTONWORTHING
BRIGHTON & HOVE
Storrington
PulboroughPetworthMIDHURSTSouth Harting
NCN2
NCN2
NCN2
NCN2
NC
N20
NCN82
NCN90
NCN90
NCN
23
Shipwrights W
ay
NCN23
Cocking
Liss
HaslemereBordon
Bentley
Ringmer
BurgessHill
Henfield
Northchapel
Fernhurst
Milland
SOUTHAMPTON
FAREHAM
GOSPORT
PORTSMOUTH
PETERSFIELD
ALTON
FourMarks
Monkwood
NewAlresford
ItchenAbbas
West MeonEast Meon
Buriton
Rowlands Castle
Hambledon
Droxford
Arundel
Liphook
Chawton
Binsted
Southease
GlyndeBerwick
Hassocks
AmberleyFalmer
NCN2
CenturionWay
ShipwrightsWay
HangersWay
SerpentTrail
The CuckooTrail
Barnhamto Bignor
DownsLink
EgretsWay
Meo
nVa
lley
Trai
l
GoodwoodCountry Park
Queen ElizabethCountry Park
Seven SistersCountry Park
Long Manof Wilmington
ry
lWoolbedingCommon
Black Down
Iping Common
Kingley Vale
Selborne
Alice Holt
Common
Heyshott Down
Beachy Head
Firle Beacon
Mill Hill
DitchlingBeacon
Devil’s DykeChanctonbury
Ring
Cissbury Ring
Bignor Hill
Harting Down
Butser Hill
Beacon Hill
St. Catherine’s Hill
OldWinchester
Hill
WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO IN THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK With its rolling hills, majestic woods, crystal clear rivers, stunning cliffs, ‘picture perfect’ villages and heavenly heathland the South Downs National Park has something for everyone. Whether you’re into sampling new foods, discovering new paths or finding that adrenaline kick, the South Downs is the place for you.
LOOK DOWN ON WINCHESTER FROM ST CATHERINE’S HILL
ENJOY THE HIGHEST VIEW IN THE SOUTH DOWNS AT BLACKDOWN
WALK AMONGST THE HEATHER AT IPING COMMON
FOLLOW GILBERT WHITE’S ZIG ZAG PATH AT SELBORNE
CYCLE OFF ROAD AT QUEEN ELIZABETH COUNTRY PARK
ENJOY CAPABILITY BROWN DESIGNED GROUNDS AT PETWORTH HOUSE
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M3
ENGLISH CHANNE L0 10 km
N
0 10 km
N
A285
A285 A29
A284
A29
A27
A283
A281
A272A272
A283
A275
A26
A259
A27
A259
A24
A23
A27
A31
A325
A31
A272
A32
A31
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M27 A3
A272
A23
A264
A29A272
M3
M23
M23A22
A26
A22
A272
A26
A265
A267
A27
A22
A22
A22
River Rother
River Meon
River Itchen
River Arun
River Adur River Ouse
Cuckmere River
View to Old Winchester Hill, Hampshire East Meon, Hampshire Little Butser , Hampshire Arundel Castle, West Sussex Cissbury Ring, West Sussex View from Ditchling Beacon, East Sussex Seven Sisters, East Sussex
BASINGSTOKE
ALDERSHOTGUILDFOR D
DORKING
Cuckfield
LingfieldCharlwood SmallfieldGodalming
Milford
Hindhead
Wrecclesham
Hailsham
HeathfieldHurstpierpoint
EASTBOURNE
Alfriston
LEWES
Fulking
East Dean
DitchlingSteyning
Findon
Singleton
Seaford
Lavant
Newhaven
Rottingdean
HaywardsHeath
EASTGRINSTEAD
Horsham
CRAWLEY
WisboroughGreen
Crowborough
Uckfield
Cranleigh
Billingshurst
Selborne
Upham
Twyford
ShirrellHeath
Wickham
Bishop’sWaltham
Eastleigh Bishopstoke
Havant
WINCHESTER
CHICHESTER Barnham
BOGNOR REGIS
LITTLEHAMPTONWORTHING
BRIGHTON & HOVE
Storrington
PulboroughPetworthMIDHURSTSouth Harting
NCN2
NCN2
NCN2
NCN2
NC
N20
NCN82
NCN90
NCN90
NCN
23
Shipwrights W
ay
NCN23
Cocking
Liss
HaslemereBordon
Bentley
Ringmer
BurgessHill
Henfield
Northchapel
Fernhurst
Milland
SOUTHAMPTON
FAREHAM
GOSPORT
PORTSMOUTH
PETERSFIELD
ALTON
FourMarks
Monkwood
NewAlresford
ItchenAbbas
West MeonEast Meon
Buriton
Rowlands Castle
Hambledon
Droxford
Arundel
Liphook
Chawton
Binsted
Southease
GlyndeBerwick
Hassocks
AmberleyFalmer
NCN2
CenturionWay
ShipwrightsWay
HangersWay
SerpentTrail
The CuckooTrail
Barnhamto Bignor
DownsLink
EgretsWay
Meo
nVa
lley
Trai
l
GoodwoodCountry Park
Queen ElizabethCountry Park
Seven SistersCountry Park
Long Manof Wilmington
ry
lWoolbedingCommon
Black Down
Iping Common
Kingley Vale
Selborne
Alice Holt
Common
Heyshott Down
Beachy Head
Firle Beacon
Mill Hill
DitchlingBeacon
Devil’s DykeChanctonbury
Ring
Cissbury Ring
Bignor Hill
Harting Down
Butser Hill
Beacon Hill
St. Catherine’s Hill
OldWinchester
Hill
WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO IN THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK
GO BACK IN TIME AT THE WEALD & DOWNLAND LIVING MUSEUM
EXPLORE THE CASTLE AT LEWES
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN BLOOMSBURY SET CULTURE AT CHARLESTON HOUSE
GET CLOSE TO NATURE AT PULBOROUGH BROOKS
ENJOY CAPABILITY BROWN DESIGNED GROUNDS AT PETWORTH HOUSE
DISCOVER CUCKMERE HAVEN AND THE ICONIC SEVEN SISTERS
TAKE THE BUS TO DITCHLING BEACON FOR A PICNIC
South Downs National Park Boundary
South Downs Way
South Downs Way Footpath Only
Multi-user routes
Planned cycle routes
Railway
National Cycle Network routes
Railway stations
Countryside sites
Settlement
Information Points (contact details on page 2)
No cycling
Dark Skies Discovery Sites
Viewpoints
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14 SOUTHDOWNS VIEW 2018 southdowns.gov.uk
13–24 JUNE Needlework on DisplayParham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HSparhaminsussex.co.uk 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, Child £6, Under 5s FREE
14 JUNE Photography workshop – beginnersNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 Tickets: £25
15 JUNE Spring Beach Clean with Marine Conservation SocietyNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 FREE ADMISSION
16 JUNESouth Downs MarathonQueen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QE209events.com/uk-running-events/south-downs-trail-marathon-slindon-to-qe-park-petersfieldinfo@209events.com Tickets: £25-40
16 JUNEFolk in the ForestSustainability Centre, East Meon, GU32 1HRsustainability-centre.org/Adults-courses.html 01730 823166 Tickets: Early bird online £11, £13 on door
16 JUNE Big Camp at Black DownNational Trust Swan Barn Farm, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 2HUnationaltrust.org.uk/swan-barn-farm/whats-on01428 652359 Tickets: Booking essential Over16 £20, Child £10
16–17 JUNE Unusual Plants Fair 2018Gilbert White & The Oates Collection, Selborne, Hampshire GU34 3JHgilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk01420 511275 Tickets: Adults £7.50, Children Free
16–17 JUNE Sussex Wildlife WeekendWWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PBwwt.org.uk/arundel01903 881530 General admission
17 JUNE Seven Sisters Archaeology walkNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Tickets: £4
17 JUNE Father’s Day den building and campfire cookingNational Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJnationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential, £12
19 JUNE National Garden Scheme Day and tourNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 General admission
19 JUNE Saddlescombe and Newtimber orchid talk and walkNational Trust Saddlescombe Rd, near Brighton, West Sussex BN45 7DEnationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential Adults £5, Child £3
20 JUNE DallowdayNational Trust Monk’s House, Rodmell, near Lewes. BN7 3HFnationaltrust.org.uk/monks-house/whats-on01273 474760 General admission
21 JUNE Summer on Iping CommonIping Common (nearest postcode GU290PB)sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/[email protected] 783 0891 (on day only) Tickets: Donation please (SWT members free)
21 JUNE Photography workshop – advancedNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 Tickets: £25
23 & 24 JUNERace to the KingQueen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QEracetotheking.com/08454 865544 Tickets: From £39
23 JUNE Langham Monthly Brewery ToursLangham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BUlanghambrewery.co.uk 01798 860861 Tours cost £12 and typically take 2 hours with generous samples. Food available.
24 JUNEHomestead Dog ShowQueen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QENo [email protected] FREE ADMISSION
13–24 JUNE Needlework on DisplayParham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HSparhaminsussex.co.uk 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, £6 Child, Under 5s FREE
30 JUNE Hairy not scary at Pound CommonNational Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RRnationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on01730 816638 FREE ADMISSION
30 JUNE Screen printing workshopNational Trust Monk’s House, Rodmell, near Lewes. BN7 3HFnationaltrust.org.uk/monks-house/whats-on0344 249 1895 Tickets: £65 Booking essential
30 JUNEMeet the CattleWoolbeding, Pound Car Parksouthdowns.gov.uk/[email protected] 819320 FREE ADMISSION
JULY
05 JULY Summer Butterflies on Seaford HeadSeaford Head (nearest postcode BN25 4QJ)sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/whats-on/[email protected] 783 0891 (on day only) Tickets: FREE event
7–8 JULY 25th Annual Garden WeekendParham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HSparhaminsussex.co.uk 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, Child £6, Under 5s FREE
7 JULY Rockpool rambleNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Tickets: £4
7 JULY National Meadows Day at SlindonNational Trust Slindon Estate, West Sussex BN18 0RHnationaltrust.org.uk/slindon-estate/whats-on01245 814730 FREE ADMISSION
7 JULY Reptile Ramble RSPB Pulborough Brookssouthdowns.gov.uk/[email protected] 819320 FREE ADMISSION
7 JULYHeathland Superheroes SafariRSPB Pulborough Brookssouthdowns.gov.uk/[email protected] 819320 FREE ADMISSION
7–8 JULY 25th Annual Garden WeekendParham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HSparhaminsussex.co.uk 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, Child £6, Under 5s FREE
13–15 JULYTrailwalkerQueen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QEoxfam.org.uk/trailwalker0300 200 1292 Tickets: From £40
14–15 JULYRail GalaAmberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9LTamberleymuseum.co.uk01798 831370 Adults £12.50, Child £7
14–15 JULYFairground Weekend and Mechanical Organ GatheringHollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, Hants GU30 7LPhollycombe.co.uk01428 724900 Tickets: Adults £16, Senior £14, Child £12. Family tickets available
15 JULYPhotography Workshop for Adults- Marvellous MacroRSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2ELrspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks01798 875851 Tickets: £50 /£40 for RSPB members
15 JULYFrog Firle farm open dayNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 FREE ADMISSION
17 JULYButterfly SafariRSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2ELrspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks01798 875851 Tickets: £20 /£16 RSPB members
17 JULYGarden tourNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 General admission
2018 EVENTS SPRING/SUMMER (cont.)
12 August
DOG FUN DAY Where: Woolbeding Parkland, near MidhurstJoin the National Trust and the South Downs National Park Authority for their annual canine extravaganza where you can enter your own dog into a multitude of activities and classes while learning more about being a responsible dog owner. Details: southdowns.gov.uk/dogfunday
MARWELL ZOO Throughout the yearWhere: Near Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JHShuttle buses (fee applies) run from Eastleigh and Southampton train stations direct to Marwell Zoo (end of March to beginning of September).Details: As well as all their existing exhibits, Marwell has lots of events going on year round from their Explorers Trail around the zoo, Easter Egg trails and Meet the Easter Bunny to Top Trumps challenges in the May half term holiday.During the summer holidays there is always something special going on around the zoo to keep you busy and keep the kids entertained. marwell.org.uk/zoo
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20 JULY Devil’s Dyke wild food walk, talk and picnicNational Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJnationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential £5
20 JULY–3 SEPTEMBERSummer Holiday Activities: SPACE!Winchester Science Centre SO21 1HZwinchestersciencecentre.org01962 863791 FREE with General Admission tickets
21 JULY–2 SEPTWWT Wildlife Rangers ActivitiesWWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PBwwt.org.uk/arundel01903 881530 General admission
21 JULY–24 AUGUSTSummer search family trailNational Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TLnationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on01323 871961 General admission
21 JULY–2 SEPTEMBERSherlock Holmes Summer family trailNational Trust Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0LAnationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner/whats-on01962 771305 General admission + suggested donation £1
21 JULY–2 SEPTEMBERSummer Family TrailNational Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield GU31 5QRnationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on01730 825415 General admission + £1 per trail
21 JULY–2 SEPTEMBERWWT Wildlife Rangers ActivitiesWWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PBwwt.org.uk/arundel01903 881530 General admission
21 & 22 JULYCreepy Crawlies WeekendDrusillas Park, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5QSdrusillas.co.uk01323 874100 Tickets: See details online
22 JULYSeven Sisters Archaeology walkNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Tickets: £4
22 JULYButterfly walk and talkNational Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJnationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential £10
27–28 JULY & 28–29 JULYBig Wild SleepoutRSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2ELrspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks01798 875851 Tickets: Adults £40, RSPB members £32, Child £20, RSPB members £16
28 JULYCountryside crafts day at Swan Barn FarmNational Trust Swan Barn Farm, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 2HUnationaltrust.org.uk/swan-barn-farm/whats-on01428 652359 FREE ADMISSION
31 JULYBioblitzLynchmere, Haslemeresouthdowns.gov.uk/[email protected] 819320 FREE ADMISSION
AUGUST
1 AUGUSTSpider-ManDrusillas Park, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5QSdrusillas.co.uk01323 874100 Tickets: See details online
21 JULY–2 SEPTEMBERWWT Wildlife Rangers ActivitiesWWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PBwwt.org.uk/arundel01903 881530 General admission
1–31 AUGUSTWild – Fantastic Floral FunMarwell Zoo, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JHmarwell.org.uk/zoo/01962 777407
3 AUGUSTYoung Photographers Workshop (for 8-14 year olds)RSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2ELrspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks01798 875851 Tickets: Child £15, RSPB members £12
3 AUGUSTRockpool rambleNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Donations only
4–5 AUGUSTThe Fabulous Raven Tor Living History GroupBignor Roman Villa, Pulborough RH20 1PHbignorromanvilla.co.uk 01798 869259 Tickets: Adults £6, Groups >10 £5, Under 16 £3.50, Groups >10 £2.50
4–5 AUGUSTGeorgian FairGilbert White & The Oates Collection, Selborne, Hampshire GU34 3JHgilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk01420 511275 Tickets: Adults £8, Children £4
4 AUGUST Outdoor Theatre: Pirates of PenzanceNational Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield GU31 5QRnationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on0344 2491895 Tickets: Booking essential Adults £16, Child £8
9–12 AUGUSTBoomtown Fair 2018Mattingly Estate, Winchester SO21 1HWboomtownfair.co.uk Tickets: £233.50
12 AUGUSTHollycombe Children’s Teddy Bears OutingHollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, Hants GU30 7LPhollycombe.co.uk01428 724900 Tickets: Adults £16, Senior £14, Child £12. Family tickets available.
12 AUGUSTDog Fun Day at Woolbeding ParklandNational Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RRnationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on01730 816638 FREE ADMISSION
17 AUGUST Saddlescombe Tudor style soap making & picnic in orchardNational Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJnationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential, £12
17 AUGUST A Teddy Bear’s picnic – NorthwoodNational Trust Slindon Estate, West Sussex BN18 0RHnationaltrust.org.uk/slindon-estate/whats-on1246 814730 Tickets: Booking essential, Adults FREE, Child £5
18 & 19 AUGUSTSouth Downs ShowQueen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QEsouthdownsshow.co.uk07918 941398 Tickets: From £3.50
18 AUGUSTNight-time Safari- Brilliant Bats and Magnificent MothsRSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2ELrspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks01798 875851 Tickets: Adults £20, RSPB members £16, Child 1/2 price £10/£8
18 AUGUSTPicnic in the Park at Woolbeding ParklandNational Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RRnationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on01730 816638 Tickets: Donations only
18 AUGUSTOutdoor Theatre: Dr DoolittleNational Trust Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0LAnationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner/whats-on0344 2491895 Tickets: Booking essential Adults £16, Child £8
18-27 AUGUSTMADhurst – Music, Arts & Drama FestivalMidhurst - Various times & locations madhurst.co.uk Tickets: Box office from 1 July
19 AUGUST Seven Sisters Archaeology walkNational Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on01323 423197 Tickets: £4
22 AUGUST Discover Drovers summer guided walkNational Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RRnationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on01730 816638 Tickets: £2
25 AUGUSTLive@Langhams All day mini beer and music festival (MADHURST)Langham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BUlanghambrewery.co.uk 01798 860861 FREE ADMISSION
26 AUGUST Little WomenGilbert White & The Oates Collections, Selborne, Hampshire GU34 3JHgilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk01420 511275 Tickets: See details online
SEPTEMBER
31 AUGUST–2 SEPTEMBERAle at AmberleyAmberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9LTamberleymuseum.co.uk01798 831370 Tickets: Adult £12.50, Child £7
21 JULY–2 SEPTEMBERSherlock Holmes summer family trailNational Trust Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0LAnationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner/whats-on01962 771305 General admission + suggested donation £1
4 SEPTEMBERBringing Heathland HomeLiss Forest, car park – Liss, Hampshiresouthdowns.gov.uk/[email protected] 819320 FREE ADMISSION
8 SEPTEMBER Findon Sheep Fair and Village FestivalNepcote Green, Nepcote Lane, Findon, BN14 0SDfindonsheepfair.co.uk01903264161 Tickets: £5.00 for Car Park
8–9 SEPTEMBERSecrets of the HeathPetersfield Heathsouthdowns.gov.uk/[email protected] 819320 FREE ADMISSION
22-28 July
DISCOVER NATIONAL PARKS WEEK Details: Our annual celebration of everything that is unique and wonderful about the South Downs National Park. Keep an eye on our website for details of free family activities taking place across the South Downs during the first week of the school summer holidays.southdowns.gov.uk
8-9 September
SECRETS OF THE HEATH Where: Petersfield Heath Details: A weekend of horrible histories recreating the past uses and current wildlife of our lowland heath. Meet characters from the Stone Age to present day rangers and learn how their activities have created and maintained this rare and fascinating habitat.southdowns.gov.uk/events
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DISCOVER NATIONAL PARKS WEEKS(see page 19)
22 JULYWild Chalk Family Fun Day East Brighton Park, Nr Sheepcote Park, Brightonsouthdowns.gov.uk/eventsFREE ADMISSION
25 JULY Discover National Parks – CrawleyQueens Park, Crawley RH10 1HAsouthdowns.gov.uk/events FREE
26 JULY Discover National Parks – SouthseaSouthsea Seafront, Clarence Esplanade, Portsmouth PO4 9RGsouthdowns.gov.uk/eventsFREE
27 JULY Discover National Parks – WorthingCorner Montague Place / Montague St, Worthing BN11southdowns.gov.uk/eventsFREE
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Did you know that the South Downs National Park has more woodland than any of the other National Parks in England and Wales?
With around 380km2 our trees cover an area bigger than the Isle of Wight.
The different geology and landscapes in the National Park create conditions suitable for different woodlands, including yew woods, ‘hanging’ beech woods, and traditional coppice woodland. Even when you’re up high on open downland you can’t escape views of woodland below – look out for small woods, farmland copses and some of the largest continuous woodland in the south east.
Almost half of the woodland in the South Downs is Ancient Woodland which, because of their age, have richly diverse trees and wildlife. These woods were historically managed as coppice or timber to build ships and houses. Over many centuries a woodland culture has built up around the woods and they are still an important part of the economy today, as well as being great places to relax, walk and try a little ‘forest bathing’. Remember that woods here may be privately owned, or important habitat, so please enjoy them from public rights of way such as footpaths and bridleways.
Woodlands under threatFrom climate change to pests and diseases, and development
pressures to lack of management – our woodlands are under threat. The best way to protect the future of our trees for future generations is to make sure that our woods are managed sustainably.
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The South Downs National Park Authority is working in partnership with the Woodland Trust to offer a free advisory service for woodland owners within the National Park.Our site visits include:
� Looking at the site history and mapping � Discovering how the wood contributes to the South Downs Landscape � A basic site survey � Guidance on managing woodland for wildlife. � Advice on approaching contractors and consultants. � Starting to write a management plan and securing grant funding. � Asking if there is a market for timber from your wood in the area?
Book a site visit with [email protected]
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Great woods to visit in the South Downs National
Park
For woodland trails on foot or bike: the Forestry Commission has recreational centres for walkers and cyclists at Alice Holt Forest in Hampshire and Friston Forest in East Sussex. Also try Queen Elizabeth Country Park run by Hampshire County Council near Petersfield.
For ‘hanging’ woods: in Old English ‘Hangra’ means
a steeply wooded slope so it’s not surprising that the
Hangers Way, a 21 mile walking route starting near
Alton in Hampshire, follows a chain of steep hills covered in
rich beech woodlands.
For some spooky woodland magic:explore the ancient gnarled yews of Kingley Vale – thought to be at least 500 years old and among the oldest living things in Britain.
For a wilder wood:‘The Mens’, is a large wild
area of ancient woodland owned by the Sussex Wildlife
Trust between Petworth and Wisborough Green, has an untamed feel, its
unusual name comes from the Anglo-Saxon word ‘ge-
mænnes’ meaning common land.
For wild bluebells and daffodils: West Deans Woods, another nature reserve run by Sussex Wildlife Trust, have been coppiced for hundreds of years allowing carpets of yellow wild daffodil to form and later in the season the iconic bluebells.
BUTTERFLIESSee silver washed fritillary or white admiral feeding in the warm, bright woodland rides. Look out for the purple emperor butterfly (below) searching for a mate high in the canopy of ash or oak. You may spot them during July at Alice Holt Forest in Hampshire or West Dean Woods in Sussex.
BIRDSONGGet up early to experience bird song at its best in spring. Join a guided woodland dawn chorus walk in April / May to help identify what you are hearing. Try one at RSPB Pulborough Brooks where you might be lucky enough to catch a nightingale’s song among the more usual species.
BATSThe Daubenton’s bat is one of many bats that can be found in the south of England, commonly occupying wooded river valleys with water present; a habitat that provides space to roost and forage. Try joining a Night-time Safari to spot bats and other nocturnal wildlife at RSPB Pulborough Brooks.
FLORAAncient woodland is alive with colour in the spring – bluebell, wood anemone (below), primrose, wild garlic and early purple orchid all bloom early to catch the sun before the tree foliage emerges leaving them in shade. Try a guided bluebell walk at National Trust Slindon Estate.
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Use the Woodland Trust – Visit Woods Website
woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods
GREAT WOODS TO VISIT IN THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK
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REMEMBER TO ‘TAKE THE LEAD’ IN THE WOODSSEE THE BACK PAGE FOR MORE INFORMATION
WOODLAND WILDLIFE TO SPOT
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HEALTH WALKSThe news has recently been full of the health benefits of being outdoors and getting close to nature. Whether it’s the act of getting physical, by walking or cycling or the sense of mental wellbeing that comes from being in forests or green open spaces, there is no doubt that we can be happier and healthier by making the most of the great outdoors…
Now that the days are longer, it’s the perfect time to get your ‘health fix’ in the beautiful countryside of the South Downs.
If you’re new to walking there are plenty of opportunities to join other beginners right across the National Park by taking part in a Health Walk. By definition, health walks are designed
for people who want to improve their health and fitness by increasing their physical activity levels. Across the South Downs, many local authorities offer a programme of health walks run by experienced volunteer walk leaders. Walks tend to last around one and a half hours and are usually graded by length and difficulty. No special equipment is required – just some suitable footwear. Why not make discovering more of the South Downs part of your fitness challenge this year?
To find out more visit walkingforhealth.org.uk and search for walks in your area.
MILES WITHOUT STILESThe rights of way network in the National Park extends across a farmed landscape and gates and stiles are often required by farmers for stock control. In an ideal world, all footpaths would be free from stiles and, for some people, all hills would be flat.
But then the Downs wouldn’t be the Downs and of course we don’t wish to iron out our hills. However, many of us struggle with stiles and look for walks that are completely stile free. Miles without Stiles are routes across the National Park
suitable for people with limited mobility. Wheelchair users, families with pushchairs and less agile walkers can choose from a list of routes designed to meet their needs. Paths are generally graded into three categories based on
surface conditions and gradients. Long-distance views from our routes at Mill Hill, Seaford Head and Seven Sisters are truly stunning, while the gentle riverside paths
from the historic village of Bramber offer a different experience.
Seven routes in four locations are available to download from our website southdowns.gov.uk/miles-without-stiles and, supported by funding from Gatwick Airport, we are now busy working on creating more Miles without Stiles opportunities by installing new gates, upgrading poor surfaces and even replacing tricky steps with a gentle ramp. The overall network of rights of way (3,330km in total) is managed by local highways authorities and the National Park Authority is pleased to add value to their work by promoting and supporting greater access for all opportunities.
southdowns.gov.uk/miles-without-stiles
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We are spoiled for choice in terms of walking routes in the South Downs National Park.
In fact we have over 3,300 km of footpath, bridleways and byways – more than any other National Park in the UK. The variety is enormous whether you are out for a quick dog walk or planning a pub lunch at the half way point of a hike there will be a route that’s right for you.
There are a range of interesting walks for all abilities to download and print for free on our website.
Visit southdowns.gov.uk/walking. Leaflets are also available from Information Points.
If you prefer to go digital then try our FREE range of walking trails on the ViewRanger app. Visit southdowns.gov.uk/viewranger for details.
Apart from sections of the South Downs Way to choose from there are also old railway lines such
as the Centurion Way in West Sussex or the Meon Valley Trail in Hampshire which have been converted to multi-user paths.
Walk part or all of the winding 64 mile Serpent Trail through the stunning heathland of the Wealden Greensand. Take part in a Meet the Cattle day with Heathlands Reunited or a guided walk on Iping Common with the Sussex Wildlife Trust. The National Trust also offer many guided walks around their sites. Check the Events pages for details of all these activities.
TAKE A HIKE HIT THE TRAIL – EXPLORE THE MEON VALLEY 2 JUNEDiscover more about the multi-user Meon Valley Trail and some of the interesting places to visit along the route. A FREE family event hosted by Hampshire County Council takes place on Saturday 2 June (10:00–15:00). A range of activities organised by local groups and nearby parishes will be on offer at various locations throughout the day.
Details: southdowns.gov.uk/events
‘DISCOVER NATIONAL PARKS’ WEEK 22–28 JULYNational Parks all over the country will be laying on special events during the ‘Discover National Parks’ week at the beginning of the school holidays and the South Downs is no exception.
The week will launch with a brand new event:
Wild Chalk Free Family Fun Day (11:00–17:00) � Sunday 22 July: East Brighton Park – beside Sheepcote Valley
This will celebrate the wildlife, history and amazing water filtering properties of our chalk downland with storytelling beside a shepherds hut, birds of prey demonstrations, ‘meet the sheep’, badge and sash making, giant jigsaws, butterfly spotting, guided walks – and much more.
During the following week our rangers will be taking a wildlife roadshow to town centres around the National Park with fun activities for families to take part in, and encouraging them to sign up to coming into the National Park a few days later to meet up with our rangers for a free afternoon of adventure, getting to know the real wildlife to be found in the South Downs.
Family Wildlife Activities (11:00–15:00)
� Wednesday 25 July: Crawley – Queens Square
� Thursday 26 July: Southsea Seafront – next to the Canoe Lake
� Friday 27 July: Worthing – Montague Place
Don’t forget that at each of these events you can sign up to come on further free adventures in the National Park a few days later.
Details: southdowns.gov.uk/events
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MARWELL ZOOA visit to Marwell Zoo, near Winchester, is a chance to get close to the wonders of the natural world.
From ring-tailed lemurs to majestic giraffes, endangered tigers to white rhinos, curious meerkats to pygmy hippos – their 140-acre park is home to an incredible range of exotic and endangered species, in beautiful, landscaped surroundings and by exploring Marwell Zoo you’ll play a big part in helping to save them.
As a global conservation charity, their mission is to conserve biodiversity and other natural resources, both locally and internationally – but they rely on the support of thousands to bring it to life! With an aim to connect people with nature and inspire care for the natural world, they engage with more than 40,000 children through their conservation educational
programmes, and welcome more than half a million visitors each year to the zoological park.
New for 2018Marwell’s biggest ever exhibit, a new Tropical House, will be opening at Easter 2018. This marks the second phase of a £17m investment programme for the zoo over the next ten years, creating improved habitats for animals and more immersive experiences for guests. The £8m exhibit will span two levels offering fantastic vantage points across a lush, tropical canopy and the opportunity to experience the captivating life of the forest floor. Guests will be free to share the habitat and enjoy uninterrupted, close-up views of new, colourful
and charismatic mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and insects. Powered by Marwell’s animal waste, the new exhibit will significantly reduce their carbon footprint.
HighlightsWhat’s more, spend time with Marwell’s playful primates at ‘Lemur Loop’, a new walkthrough exhibit – now open. Explore the environment of different types of lemur whilst learning about the evolution of the species. Their knowledgeable staff are on hand to answer any questions! With a beautiful landscaped setting, both indoors and out, the new lemur exhibit promises a truly immersive experience.
As well as Lemur Loop, you can experience the African wilderness
first hand at Wild Explorers! Home to white rhino, Grevy’s zebra and scimitar-horned oryx, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of the animals, both near and far, from the raised observation boardwalk. It’s the perfect spot for wildlife photography.
Marwell Zoo also offers guests a programme of fascinating daily talks and feeds on a range of animal species throughout the day including meerkats, penguins and giraffes. Plus, take part in Marwell’s popular Explorers, Trail collecting stamps of your favourite animals! With five adventure playgrounds, a free road train and rail train, there’s plenty to occupy your little ones while you relax and soak up the surroundings. marwell.org.uk/zoo
COMPETITION TIMEWe’re giving readers of South Downs View the chance to win a family ticket to Marwell Zoo for two adults and two children! The ticket is valid for 12 months, giving one lucky winner the flexibility of choosing when to visit.
Simply go to marwell.org.uk/southdowns and answer the following question by 31 August 2018.
How many acres is Marwell Zoo?A) 120 B) 140 C) 160The winner will be contacted by email by 7 September 2018, good luck!
Marwell’s new Tropical House opens Easter 2018.
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DRINK LOCALIn other editions of South Downs View we have featured the enormous variety of food available in and around the National Park...
...In this edition we would like to highlight the growing diversity of local beverage producers in the region. It’s not just still and sparkling wine but also locally brewed real ale and cider – not to mention mineral water sourced here too.
WineWine may not be something that you immediately associate with the South Downs but some of England’s finest sparkling and white wines are
produced by award winning, local vineyards.
The vineyards owe some of their success to the chalky soils and fine climate providing a “unique” flavour of the South Downs”. In fact, grapes have been growing in this area, which is very similar to the Champagne region in France, since Roman times.
To find more local drink and food producers visit southdownsfood.org
Langham BreweryLodsworth, West Sussex
langhambrewery.co.uk
Independent award-winning steam powered micro-brewery producing secondary cask conditioned real ale from an 18th century granary barn in West Sussex.
Finest quality ingredients – water sourced from a local aquifer; floor malted barley from one of the 2 remaining floor maltsters in the UK and flavoursome leaf hops produce innovative, distinctive and flavoursome real ale. Best-selling beers are Hip Hop and Arapaho... now joined by South Downs Traditional Best Bitter. Look out for it at your local real ale supplier.
Tour and tasting dates available year round
Long Man BreweryLitlington, East Sussex
longmanbrewery.com
The multi award-winning Long Man Brewery uses water from its own borehole in the chalk below the farm and grows its own barley. Old Man won World’s Best Dark Mild Beer at the 2017 World Beer awards.
South Downs CiderWilmington, East Sussex southdownscider.co.uk Small cider maker producing a variety of delicious still and sparkling ciders with 95% of ingredients coming from within 10 miles of Wilmington. Two best sellers are the Medium – a cloudy still cider and Silver Lining – a cloudy sparkling cider both at 4.5% ABV. Elderflower Cider is also popular using elderflower from the South Downs.
Upperton VineyardTillington West Sussex uppertonvineyards.co.ukFamily run vineyard dedicated to making award winning sparkling English wine. Star product: Tenebris their 100% pinot sparkling wine has proved to be incredibly popular.Tour and tasting from May to September.
Rathfinny Wine EstateNear Alfriston, East Sussexrathfinnyestate.com At its RIBA nominated, state-of-the-art Winery, Rathfinny established in 2010 and plans to become a world class producer of vintage sparkling wine. Tour and tasting dates available June to October.
Ridgeview Wine EstateDitchling Common, East Sussexridgeview.co.uk Second generation family winery producing world class wine from their “ridge with a view”. Star product: Bloomsbury NV Sparkling, Official wine served for the Queen’s Diamond JubileeTour and tasting dates available to book.
South Downs Natural Mineral Watersouthdownswater.co.uk Naturally wholesome without any treatment, South Downs Natural Mineral Water is drawn from an artesian well 420ft below ground. Filtered through the chalk it is naturally high in calcium and low in sodium and then bottled at source near Kingley Vale, West Sussex in the South Downs National Park.
Plumpton Wine Estateplumpton.ac.uk Award winning still and sparkling wines such as Dean Brut NV, produced on site by aspiring young vine growers and winemakers.Based at Plumpton College the UK’s centre for excellence in wine – offering first class education, training and research.
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THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK
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COLUMBIA PARTNERSHIPThe UK’s 15 National Parks are working together with Columbia Sportswear making Columbia the Official Outfitter to the National Park rangers and staff – the people who protect and promote some of Britain’s best-loved landscapes.
Demonstrating huge commitment to the National Parks, Columbia is outfitting upwards of 2,000 National Park staff including 300 rangers, providing high quality clothing that's "tested tough"™ and designed to keep them warm, dry, cool and protected in Britain's toughest conditions.South Downs National Park Chief Executive, Trevor Beattie said:
“The partnership between Columbia and the UK’s National Parks is a significant undertaking. Columbia Sportswear has obviously put a great deal of thought into the diverse and high quality range of gear they are providing to keep our rangers and staff protected from the worst the weather can throw at them”.
FUNDING FOR COMMUNITY PROJECTSWhat do a wooden bridge over a chalk stream, an attempt to make authentic Roman shoes, a Hilaire Belloc novel, and a community shop have in common? They’re all part of projects supported by the South Downs National Park Authority’s Sustainable Community Fund (SCF).
Do you have a project in the National Park? Do you need funding? Will your project bring social, environmental, economic or cultural benefits to your community? If so, you should definitely call the SCF team.
The National Park Authority’s Sustainable Communities Fund issues grants from £250 to £10,000 and up to 50% of project costs.
Find out more and how to apply at southdowns.gov.uk/sustainable-communities-fund
Protecting the beauty of the Downs
Join us and become a member of the South Downs Society
a charity dedicated to the protection and conservation of the South Downs
. Over 200 organised walks & strolls each year
. Activities & events
. Help us to campaign to preserve the landscape for future generations. Help us improve access to the Downs
For more details, please visit our website www.southdownssociety.org.uk or telephone 01798 875073South Downs Society, 2 Swan Court, Station Road, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 1RL
Protecting the beauty of the South Downs
NATIONAL PARK ENTRY SIGNSOver the eight years since the South Downs was designated we’ve often been asked why there are no signs telling people that they’ve arrived in the National Park.But what would they look like? Before we could consider any signage we first needed to develop an identity for the South Downs. Now this is in place we will be piloting bespoke signage this summer to give people a sense that they are arriving in the UK’s newest National Park and influence positive behaviour towards our protected landscape.
Our second challenge is that there are over 2,000 entrances/exits
to the National Park and 600km of boundary. So, we have selected 19 locations at, or near, the South Downs’ borders – all carefully selected as places in which there is a real sense of arrival in the National Park. Each sign’s size and design will be tailored to fit with that particular location.
We’re looking forward to joining all 14 other UK National Parks in proudly signalling our presence to visitors and people who live here.
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NATIONAL CITIZEN SERVICEConnecting young people with nature is a key aim for the South Downs National Park.
Along with all other English National Parks, the South Downs has a target to double the number of young people experiencing a National Park as part of National Citizen Service (NCS). So what is this all about?
The National Citizen Service (NCS) was established by the Government and is now in its 5th year. The programme aims to:
� Engage 15–17 year olds across the UK
� Develop the skills that employers increasingly value including confidence, leadership and independence � Link to social action projects �Motivate young people to long term engagement in volunteering
NCS achieves this through a 4 week programme where young people work in groups of 12–15 to undertake three strands:
� Adventure – a week’s residential in an activity centre trying out new activities and teambuilding � Skills – a week’s residential developing life skills to boost CV or UCAS personal statement � Social action – Plan, fundraise and make a difference over 5 days of activity
Last summer we piloted three sessions in the Western Downs with Mountbatten School, a Hampshire provider of NCS. These sessions aimed to encourage more young people to volunteer within the National Park. Young people from across the area participated in river bank conservation on the River Rother including removing the invasive Himalayan Balsam, conducting river fly monitoring experiments and learning about our water vole reintroduction programme. This summer we will be extending the opportunities into West Sussex in a collaboration with West Sussex County Council NCS team.
For more information and to get involved ‘say yes to NCS’ at www.ncsyes.co.uk.
8:00 Surveying 1km squares as part of the South
Downs Farmland Bird Initiative. These help to track the population trends of important farmland birds like yellowhammer and skylark and are best done before 9am.
9:30 Practical conservation tasks with our volunteers,
such as cutting back hawthorn and blackthorn on chalk grassland, coppicing woodland to open up clearings for wildlife and improving accessibility on the South Downs Way.
14:00 Clearing nettles at a local chalk grassland
site, so we’ll carry out a butterfly survey too. The results go to Butterfly Conservation, but any data also helps us and the landowner gauge the recovery of this threatened habitat.
DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SOUTH DOWNS
NATIONAL PARK RANGERRANGER DIARY
Charlotte Wray, Assistant Ranger, Western Downs
No two days are the same, just as no two rangers are the same – the diversity of the job keeps us all on our toes and means we use a huge number of different skills.
15:30 Back to the yard with our volunteers where
we unload and carry out tool and vehicle maintenance. If we have time we’ll make some barn owl boxes for local farmers. We monitor these in the spring with the Hawk Conservancy Trust.
16:30 A good time to catch up on emails and start
planning for tomorrow when we’re attending an event with the Country Trust. We’ll be engaging with school children of all ages, teaching them about the National Park and the ecology of barn owls and water voles.
17:00 Time to check one of our South Downs
geocaches on the way home – it’s been reported missing but after a short hunt we’ve found it nearby and hidden it again, ready for the next intrepid explorer to find!
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Lots of you visit the South Downs National Park because it is a great place to walk your dog. There’s over 3,000 km of rights of way, bridleways and paths for them to explore within the boundaries of a National Park, but please remember this is a farmed landscape with livestock and wildlife that can be injured or disturbed.
Top tips for being a Responsible Dog Owner:
1 Put your dog on a lead near livestock. This is so important when walking in fields where sheep or cattle are present. What may look like playful chasing by your dog could result in pregnant ewes
aborting their young through fright. It’s worth remembering that farmers have the right to shoot any dog which may be harming their livestock on their land. Better to be safe than sorry so always Take the Lead.
2 Protect ground nesting birds. Bounding around the heather may be great fun for your dog but between March and October increasingly rare ground nesting birds such as the nightjar, woodlark or
Dartford warbler are trying to rear their young. Disturbance could mean the loss of that year’s brood. Be vigilant and always stick to the paths.
3 Bag and Bin your dog poo. With all the joys of owning a dog comes the messy part of picking up their poo. Responsible dog owners do it
because they know the risks if they don’t. Bacteria in dog poo is harmful to animals and humans alike and no-one likes to tread in dog poo – it can ruin a country walk, so always bag it and bin it – any public bin will do. Please don’t leave it behind.
4 Know where your dog is. Dogs often dash off to explore interesting smells and
can end up lost, injured or disturbing wildlife. Dogs can also escape from gardens and cause havoc to livestock. Keep your dog safe – keep it under close control and keep it secure when at home. Also make sure they are microchipped so that you can be reunited if they get lost.
5 Stick to the path. The National Park is made up of beautiful farmland and important
wildlife habitats, please stick to the path and don’t wander across private land.
6 Keep Safe: Do not enter military training areas when the red flags are
flying. Ministry of Defence land is usually clearly marked and at certain times can be off limits.
Contacts UsSouth Downs National Park Authority South Downs CentreNorth StreetMidhurstWest SussexGU29 9DH01730 814810
So, when you’re dog walking in the South Downs, join your fellow responsible dog walkers and Take the Lead.
Visit southdowns.gov.uk/take-the-lead to watch and share our Take the Lead videos. Use the hashtag #takethelead on social media. We love to see photos of you enjoying the South Downs National Park with your dog.
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SIGN UP TO THE SOUTH DOWNS E-NEWSLETTER AND WIN PRIZES!Keep up to date with the latest news and events from the South Downs National Park.
Every month you’ll have the chance to win a prize to help you enjoy the National Park even more – from days out to outdoor kit.
Find out more and sign up at southdowns.gov.uk/newsletter
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TAKE THE LEAD
© Rebecca Saunders/SDNPA
