Walk through peaceful fields on the SDW

South Downs Way (8 Days & 7 Nights)

For experienced walkers that enjoy a challenge, this itinerary allows you to complete the whole South Downs Way in 6 walking days. The trail stretches 100 miles from the historic city of Winchester to the coastal chalk hills on the South Coast. Walk amongst vibrant yellow fields of corn, along picturesque chalk paths, and admire thatched cottages with colourful gardens. Rolling hills dominate the West section of the walk as you pass through traditional villages with friendly country Inns. Mixed woodland walking, and views as far as the Isle of Wight can be seen from Butser Hill. As you head down to the coast the scenery changes with grasslands full of wild flowers until you reach the iconic Seven Sisters and Beachy Head. Offering peaceful, easy-going walking by day and traditional cosy pubs by night, this National Trail is a fantastic countryside escape.
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Sarah Stone
updated on: September 09, 2020
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Hiking route · United Kingdom
Winchester to East Meon
recommended route Difficulty moderate
Distance 29.8 km
Duration 8:00 h
Ascent 413 m
Descent 347 m

The first stage of the South Downs Way begins in the historic city of Winchester and takes you to East Meon via Beacon Hill Nature Reserve.

from Sarah Stone,   Macs Adventure
Hiking route · United Kingdom
East Meon to Cocking
recommended route Difficulty moderate
Distance 33 km
Duration 9:00 h
Ascent 540 m
Descent 579 m

A long day of fabulous hiking from East Meon to Cocking, taking in Buster and Beacon Hills, as well as the Queen Elisabeth Country Park and Monkton ...

from Sarah Stone,   Macs Adventure
Hiking route · United Kingdom
Cocking to Washington
recommended route Difficulty moderate
Distance 30.5 km
Duration 8:30 h
Ascent 530 m
Descent 512 m

Leaving the village of Cocking, return to the South Downs Way to continue along chalk lanes and field and forest trails to Washington.

from Sarah Stone,   Macs Adventure
Hiking route · United Kingdom
Washington to Pyecombe
recommended route Difficulty moderate
Distance 22.8 km
Duration 6:30 h
Ascent 521 m
Descent 497 m

Walk from Washington to Pyecombe, taking in varied attractions such as Lance Chapel, an ancient Donkey Wheel and the highlight of the day; the ...

from Sarah Stone,   Macs Adventure
Hiking route · United Kingdom
Pyecombe to Alfriston
recommended route Difficulty difficult
Distance 35.6 km
Duration 9:30 h
Ascent 540 m
Descent 644 m

Hike from Pyecombe to the charming village of Alfriston, a real highlight of the South Downs Way. 

from Sarah Stone,   Macs Adventure
Hiking route · United Kingdom
Alfriston to Eastbourne
recommended route Difficulty moderate
Distance 19.7 km
Duration 6:00 h
Ascent 423 m
Descent 423 m

A superlative day of walking to finish your South Down's Way with a bang. 

from Sarah Stone,   Macs Adventure