The UK has a number of spectacular long-distance footpaths and bridleways, spanning the length and breadth of the country. With so much amazing scenery, bucolic countryside and well-maintained footpath to explore, it’s no wonder more and more people are venturing out on walking holidays.
Whether you’re looking for a chilled out, B&Bs and light hiking option, or more of a camping and long distance trekking vibe, the South Downs Way can cater for all that and more. With so many great campsites, hotels, B&B’s and public transport links, there’s no reason to not enjoy a fantastic walking holiday.
The South Downs Way
Running one hundred miles from Winchester to Eastbourne, the South Downs way is one of the most spectacular long-distance national trails in the UK. Consisting of linked paths that have been walked for over 8,000 years, with plenty of interesting sights to attest to its long history (including the beacon that spotted the Spanish Armada in Tudor times, The Long Man of Wilmington, the medieval village of Lomer and an ancient battlefield).
As well as all that history comes beautiful landscapes and scenery, and plenty of pubs to keep you fed between hikes. Walking the South Downs Way can be a great achievement, whilst also making for a fun holiday!
Hotels and B&Bs
The South Downs Way has plenty to offer in the way of hotels and B&Bs. This can be the perfect option if you’re looking for a walking holiday, but aren’t feeling like roughing it! If you want to combine a little bit of luxury and relaxation with your hiking, and want to enjoy a lengthy shower at the end of a long day of walking and pub lunches.
There is plenty of great package walking holiday deals to be had online, especially at South Downs Discovery, where you can find fully catered for, planned and guided walking holidays.
Camping
If you’re after a more hands-on, challenging and cheaper experience, camping can be just the ticket. We’re set to enjoy a great summer this year, making a bit of camping and hiking seem like the perfect combo.
With so much countryside and open scenery along the South Downs way, it’ll come as no surprise that there are plenty of campsites along the way. As long as you packed light, you could walk the entire route, staying at a range of campsites during. If you’re wanting an even more authentic experience, try wild camping, but make sure to leave everything as you find it, and take your litter with you.
Cottages
Along the way, you’ll also find plenty of self-catering cottages, allowing you to enjoy a truly beautiful rural experience, while having a cosy base to return to at the end of the day. With so many different cottages to choose from, if you don’t mind carrying everything, you could stay in a bunch of different cottages all along the South Downs way. This could prove a really fun and chilled out way to see as much of the route as possible.
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