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101 Things to do in South East England - Part 4: Take a Walk on the Wild Side
27th May 2021
Samphire Hoe, White Cliffs Country credit Explore KentIf you love walking then the South East is definitely the place for you, it's a real walkers paradise. With over 11,600 miles of walking trails and paths, you can head across beautiful countryside, walk alongside famous rivers, stroll over breath-taking cliffs, tread well trodden centuries old paths or follow new, purpose built accessible trials. You will certainly discover a place to walk and explore whatever part South East England you decide to visit.
Make your escape and discover some real South East wilderness. Head to the wind swept sand dunes of Camber Sands in 1066 Country, or the West Witterings, West Sussex, or the most southern point of the Kent coast at Dungeness, with its stark beauty and shingle desert. Be in awe of the breath-taking beauty of Cuckmere Haven, Hengistbury Head, Beachy Head, or the iconic Needles on the Isle of Wight. Experience the stunning views from Cissbury Ring, the Devils Dyke, or the top of the South Downs National Park with views over Sussex to Hampshire.
Discover some of the world's most endangered animals with a visit to one of the South East's many zoo's, wildlife parks or nature reserves. Experience leaf peeping, food foraging, wild swimming, or try camping/glamping and discover your wildside in South East England.
Take a look at the 4th part of our 5 blogs, showcasing 101 things to do in South East England. Explore 'taking a walk on the wild side' for your next South East adventure.
- Explore the Clarendon Way, a 24-mile walk between Winchester and Salisbury Cathedrals, which takes in some of the best parts of the Test Valley
- Enjoy a stroll in one of the many country parks scattered throughout the South East. The Alver Valley Country Park in Gosport offers woodlands, ponds and wildlife in and around the River Alver which runs through its centre.
- Walk the Southampton Walls - considered to be the best-preserved medieval Town Walls in England and visit a host of historic churches, wine vaults and ancient monuments en route. The two Bargate Lions, which have stood guard at the gateway to the city since 1180, were returned to their plinths following repair and restoration works.
- Head out and visit the second largest ancient woodland in Hampshire - Harewood Forest, near Andover. This beautiful forest is full of ancient oak trees, deer, owls and other flora or fauna.
- Take a ride and have your photo taken with our family-friendly carriage horse. The historic carriage of Ascot Carriages, previously used by the late Lieutenant-Colonel Sir John Miller, Her Majesty The Queen's Equerry and horsemaster for 26 years.
- Step back in history and feel like one of King Henry VIII's knights with an overnight glamp at Leeds Castle near Maidstone. The Knight’s pavilion tents pay homage to the royal setting.
- Explore breath-taking Beachy Head - one of Eastbourne's most famous film and TV locations. Choose to walk along the beach to view the famous red and white-striped lighthouse at low tide or climb to the top for stunning views and visit the NEW Beachy Head Story visitor centre.
- Head out an explore the 125-mile-long Great West Way which stretches from London to Bristol. Treat yourself to a stay in the 5* Roseate Hotel in Reading at the start or the end of the trail.
- Head out on a kayak and explore Europe's largest natural harbour from the water at Poole, fringed with unspoilt woodland and coastal walks.
- Get closer to the wonders of the natural world with a visit to Marwell Zoo. The 140-acre wildlife park is home to hundreds of animals, from endangered Amur tigers, snow leopards and white rhinos - you’re in for a wild time!
- Create your own South East adventures, with your own self-catering accommodation on wheels. Bunk Campers offer a range of 2 - 4 people campervans for hire whether you're heading out for a short break or an epic six-month adventure.
- Sample the delights caught by the Rye fishing fleet, Rye Bay scallops being a speciality, before setting out to explore this beautiful medieval town.
- Step back in time with a wander through Little Woodham 1642 Living History Village near Gosport. Meet and talk with the 'villagers' dressed in period customs as they demonstrate the historic skills of the blacksmith, potter, lace-makers and weavers.
- You don't have to fly miles for an African adventure, you can enjoy one right here in the South East. Head to Port Lympne Safari Park in Kent and check in at a new bubble house for a stay.
- Why not whizz down the first ever pier to shore zip wire in the world, launching of from Bournemouth Pier.
- Forage for your own lunch and discover seasonal produce on your doorstep. Leave your phone behind and escape to Mill Hill near Worthing where you’ll meet fungi forager extraordinaire Geoff Dann.
- See Eastbourne from a new perspective and take to the skies with a paragliding experience over the South Downs National Park. Marvel at the spectacular views across the Downs, Beachy Head and more as they unfold beneath you.
Discover other great places to visit across the South East, either on two wheels, or what about a walk to discover more of this beautiful destination. Please remember to plan ahead and pre-book your visits before you travel to avoid disappointment. This list is written to provide inspiration and ideas, please visit the individual attraction/destination websites for the most up to date information.
This is our 4th blog out of 5, you can discover more about the beautiful South East region be reading our previous blogs in this series here
