Plan your Visit

FAQs

How long does the South Downs Way take to walk?

This will depend on how active you are but generally, we like to leave 8 days, walking on average 12 miles per day is a good amount to walk the South Downs Way. Of course, if you are fitter then you can walk it in 5/6 days, or alternatively take your time and explore Hampshire and Sussex and take some rest days. You can also do it over several weekends if you’d rather not walk consecutively for 8 days. Remember that blisters will be common as the path can be firm and you might want to take your time.

Which way should I walk the South Downs Way?

You can either begin in Winchester or Eastbourne and either way is great, but using the South Downs Way Planner and finishing off by walking along the cliffs on your last day and walking at Beachy Head is a particularly impressive route to finish on.

How long is the South Downs Way?

Officially the South Downs Way is 100 miles long, but if you are walking to and from accommodation and lunch spots and any other detours then it’s guaranteed you will walk a lot more than that.

Where should I stay?

At the end of a route section, you will nearly always find a pub or B&B in the village or town in which to stop off. There are also plenty of Airbnb’s and campsites nearby the South Downs Way, and you can get to these by public transport or walk if they aren’t too far. Visit our accommodation page for more information.

What is the difference between the South Downs Way & North Downs Way

The South Downs Way is perfect if you prefer big open landscapes, rolling hills, and stunning coastal views like the Seven Sisters. The North Downs Way, on the other hand, offers a mix of wooded trails, charming countryside, and historic sites like Canterbury Cathedral. Both are great options for long distance walks with transport links from London.

Can I book walking holidays along the South Downs Way?

Absolutely. Visit South Downs Discovery for a wide selection of industry-leading South Downs Way walking holidays and packages tailored to your group’s hiking ability and price range.