Kent Downs AONB
With over 3 million acres of countryside to explore in South East England, it's the perfect place to escape the four walls and enjoy some great open spaces, fresh air and exercise. Discover the National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, country parks, nature reserves, glorious gardens, waymarked walks of the South East.... there's no better place to fall in love with the great outdoors.
South East England is home to two National Parks covering over 2,193km2 between them. New Forest National Park in Hampshire, famous for its colourful heather, and ponies that wander through the villages and across its large open expanses and forest trails, and South Downs National Park which stretches from Winchester to Eastbourne, through the counties of Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex, and is the newest National Park in the UK. One of the many iconic images of the South, is the white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head which is part of the South Downs, along with the famous Devils Dyke, Blackdown and ancient forests of Kingsley Vale, all providing some of the best countryside in the UK. Don't miss the chance to visit both parks when you are here in South East England, they have very different landscapes and experiences to enjoy.
We encourage you to explore the countryside at every opportunity, it is so good for your well-being and mental health. However, whilst you are out and about remember to follow the Countryside Code - RESPECT - PROTECT - ENJOY. This countryside code contains advice for the public and landowners, making it easier for visitors to help respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors
There are an amazing nine Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in South East England. These have been recognised for their exceptional landscape, character, and natural beauty, and are prized enough to be protected for all to enjoy. Whether you choose to hunt for dinosaur footprints on the Isle of Wight, follow in the path of Olympians in the Surrey Hills or be charmed by the space and beauty of Chichester Harbour, these areas offer the chance to explore the beautiful English countryside easily. Reaching into every county in the South East it doesn't matter where you stay or visit, it is easy to head out and explore these stunning rural areas with the Kent Downs, Surrey Hills, North Wessex Downs and Chiltern Hills providing the easiest access to countryside near London.
Half the Isle of Wight is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making it an ideal escape to the country. A varied terrain includes dramatic coastlines with heritage status, nature reserves, woodlands, chalk hills and stunning views that'll test the memory of any smartphone camera.
There are approximately 50 chalk carved figures in the UK countryside, the most famous is the Uffington White Horse in Oxfordshire, which is located 25 miles outside of Oxford and is believed to date back to the bronze age. It can be found in the aptly named Vale of the White Horse and can be seen for miles dancing over the Ridgeway hills. Head to Eastbourne and walk to the bottom or top of the Long Man of Wilmington, a giant etched out in slopes of Windover Hill.
Don't miss the ever changing seasons that bring yearly change to the countryside, from carpets of white snowdrops in winter (January - February) the stunning bluebells walks that follow (April - May) or the rich colours of Autumm that signal the end of summer.
The Test Valley runs from the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty right down to the New Forest National Park in the south, with walkers and cyclists being able to enjoy parts of the 44 mile Test Way, nestling between Winchester, Salisbury and the New Forest.
Most of the world's chalk streams are found here in the southeast of England. The crystal-clear water provides a unique habit for wildlife, and is one of most biodiverse types of rivers in the UK, they provide a beautiful place to walk and lookout for wildlife. The rivers wander through some of the most beautiful British countryside with tranquil water meadows and rolling chalk hills. The River Test, Itchen and Meon are the three main chalk rivers in Hampshire.
You may not know that the South East is also home to two UNESCO Biosphere Reserves at Brighton and the Isle of Wight - there are only 7 sites in the UK. These Biospheres bring together rural, marine and urban environments, to take care of these special places for both nature and people.
Our extensive list below will help you find a host of ideas and countryside near me to visit when next in South East England.
Number of results: 228
, currently showing 141 to 160.
Parkland / Woodland Garden
Littlehampton
A great place to walk, exercise and observe nature through the seasons.
Nature Reserve
Winchester
Flower-rich chalk grassland cloaks this hill which is of great conservation and archaeological importance.
Walking Tour
Wadhurst
Great Oak Walks offers scenic self-guided walking holidays, over rolling hills and fields and through ancient woodland and valleys, linking some of the finest castles, houses and gardens in England.
Natural Feature
Littlehampton
Littlehampton Harbour serves both leisure and commercial users and is a gateway to the Arun Valley.
Farm
Leatherhead
Set in the beautiful countryside, Bocketts Farm offers a great day out whatever the weather! There are a large variety of friendly farm animals to feed and stroke, and lots of attractions for all the family, both inside and out.
Viewpoint
Dorking
Set in the beautiful Surrey Hills Leith Hill has always been a popular place for visitors as there are so many adventures to be had and interesting spots to explore. Climb to the top of the tower and admire the views from the highest point in…
Animal Collection / Zoo
Ringwood
Liberty's is home to a large collection of birds of prey and reptiles. Observe the birds flying free and reptiles up close in various spectacular displays throughout the day. Kennels for dogs provided free of charge.
Nature Reserve
Pulborough
The RSPB invites you to discover and enjoy wildlife all year round. Set in the scenic Arun Valley with views to the South Downs, the two mile circular nature trail leads around this beautiful reserve.
Country / Royal Park
Newbury
One of the best known hill forts in England and the site of one of the beacons that formed a network across Hampshire.
Fishing
Tonbridge
This 165 acre Country Park owes much of it character to the Haysden and Barden Lakes and the River Medway. Nature and Historical Trails, Sailing Club, fishing (day tickets available) toilets, children's play area, and refreshment service.
Lake / Reservoir
Tunbridge Wells
Beautiful lake and country park. Watersports, fly fishing, walks and rides, boat trips, visitor centre, restaurant and conference facilities. Summer events.
Beach
Totland Bay
The crystal clear waters are a favourite for local swimmers and perfect for the children to paddle. Enjoy watching the boats moor in the bay during the day and the fisherman enjoying the tranquillity at dusk.
Church / Chapel
Guildford
A beautiful church on the North Downs Way, it offers great views of the countryside.
Water Based Activities
Goring By Sea, Worthing
Authorised retailler of major watersport brands, hire of sea kayaks and towable tube rides at Goring
Museum
Pitstone
Major collection of historical farm implements, local rural crafts and domestic bygones housed in Listed farm buildings.
Picnic Site
Godalming
The common is an area of woodland and heathland which was used as an army camp in both world world wars. Witley common is easily accessible with footpaths are clearly marked. This land is managed by the National Trust and is a lovely spot for a pi
Country / Royal Park
Crowborough
Crowborough Country Park is a 16 acre local nature reserve set within the Jarvis Brook area of Crowborough entranced from Osborne Road.
Country / Royal Park
Camberley
Frimley Lodge Park is a very attractive venue for everyone looking for quiet recreation or organised activity.
Historic Site
Arundel
If you’re looking for weekends, short breaks or days out, Arundel is perfect for couples - spanning the banks of the beautiful River Arun, the town lies between the magnificent South Downs and the Sussex coastline.
Country / Royal Park
Wexham
Black Park - lakeside cafe, disabled access, walks, horse riding, orienteering. Langley Park - formal gardens, arboretum, woodland, parkland.