View from Leith Hill part of the Surrey Hills, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Leith Hill

Surrey Hills AONB

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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, National Landscapes (Previously known as 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.

The Countryside Code

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

Beautiful Places Near Me

There are an amazing nine National Landscapes (Formally known as 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.

  • The Cotswolds, Oxfordshire
  • North Wessex Downs, Berkshire
  • Chiltern Hills, Buckinghamshire
  • High Weald, Sussex
  • Kent Downs 
  • Surrey Hills 
  • Chichester Harbour , Sussex
  • Dorset 
  • Isle of Wight

Half the Isle of Wight is a designated National Landscape, 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.

Best Views Near Me

  • Don't miss the chance to take in the stunning views of Newlands Corner, Box Hill, Devils Punchbowl and Leith Hill in the Surrey Hills.
  • Take a wander up St Catherines Hill, on the outskirts of Winchester for breath-taking views over the city. 
  • Make some time when visiting Brighton to head out to Devils Dyke, just 5 miles north-west of of the city, with its deep V-shaped valley and selection of walking trails on offer. 
  • Head to Cissbury Ring, near Worthing, the largest hill fort in Sussex dating back some 5,000 years and offering stunning views over Brighton and beyond from its ramparts. 
  • Explore Beachy Head and some of the best views of the Seven Sisters near Eastbourne, with its dramatic scenery and amazing views, the highest chalk cliff in the South East. 
  • Head to Butser Hill the highest point in Hampshire, part of the world's newest International Dark Sky Reserve - a stargazing delight.  Dont miss the chance to visit Butser Ancient Farm whilst you are here, an archaeology site where you can step back in time. 
  • Wander through the beautiful archway of trees and head up to the Halnakar Windmill to enjoy views over Sussex, Goodwood and the South Coast beyond.
  • Explore the ancient forest of Kingley Vale, full of twisted branches and an air of mystery. Head to the top and enjoy stunning views over West Sussex countryside.
  • Visit Hengistbury Head to the south of Christchurch Harbour, a wind sweep headland offering beautiful views over Isle of Wight, New Forest and Purbecks.

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:

Number of results: 232

, currently showing 161 to 180.

  1. Cissbury Ring

    Type

    Type:

    Natural Feature

    Worthing

    Cissbury Ring, just north of the coastal town of Worthing, is one of the jewels in the crown of the new South Downs National Park. It's the largest hill fort in Sussex and has a history dating back over 5,000 years.

  2. The Lost Forest of Bernwood

    Type

    Type:

    Nature Trail / Watching

    Aylesbury

    A 5.5-mile circular walk starting at Brill. It combines stunning views over the Vale of Aylesbury with fascinating heritage, including the 17thC post mill on Brill Common.

  3. Crowborough Country Park

    Type

    Type:

    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.

  4. Littlehampton Harbour

    Type

    Type:

    Natural Feature

    Littlehampton

    Littlehampton Harbour serves both leisure and commercial users and is a gateway to the Arun Valley.

  5. Liberty's Owl Raptor & Reptile Centre

    Type

    Type:

    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.

  6. Black Park

    Type

    Type:

    Country / Royal Park

    Wexham

    Black Park - lakeside cafe, disabled access, walks, horse riding, orienteering. Langley Park - formal gardens, arboretum, woodland, parkland.

  7. Widewater Lagoon

    Type

    Type:

    Natural Feature

    Lancing

    A landlocked brackish lagoon which is home to some unique plantlife and a regular base for some birds.

  8. Freshwater Bay

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    Freshwater

    Freshwater Bay is one of the most picturesque beaches in West Wight and lies just to the South of the town of Freshwater. The beach is covered in a mixture of grey flint and chalk pebbles that make a unique sound as the waves rise and fall onto the…

  9. Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Visitor Centre

    Type

    Type:

    Nature Reserve

    Sevenoaks

    A spectacular array of birds reside within this peaceful nature reserve, and wildlife enthusiasts of all levels will find something to delight. Facilities include shop, teabar, museum and nature trails, means there's something for everyone.

  10. Lightwater Country Park

    Type

    Type:

    Country / Royal Park

    Lightwater

    The Country Park is predominately heathland habitat, but there are also ponds, woodland, shrubs and lowland bog

  11. The Nature Discovery Centre

    Type

    Type:

    Nature Reserve

    Thatcham, Newbury

    The Nature Discovery Centre offers organic refreshments, interactive wildlife activities , adventure playgrounds and lakeside walks. A wonderful day out for all the family

  12. Beacon Hill Iron Age Hill Fort

    Type

    Type:

    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.

  13. Great Oak Walks

    Type

    Type:

    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.

  14. Camber Sands

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    CAMBER

    This stunning stretch of sandy beach is home to the only sand dune system in East Sussex. Camber Sands is the perfect get-away with unspoilt views of sand and sea stretching for miles.

  15. East Cowes Beach

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    EAST COWES

    East Cowes Beach is a quiet shingle and sand beach with fantastic views across West Cowes and its marina, and also out across the Solent.

  16. Alum Bay Beach

    Type

    Type:

    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.

  17. Kent Downs & North Downs Way AONB

    Type

    Type:

    Nature Reserve

    Maidstone

    The Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a nationally important, protected landscape offering, beauty, tranquility, fascinating history, vibrant communities, local produce and many opportunities to explore and enjoy.

  18. Haven Falconry

    Type

    Type:

    Wildlife Centres & Nature Reserves

    HAVENSTREET

    The friendly team at Haven Falconry are dedicated and skilled falconers who have a passion for birds of prey with experience back over 45yrs! Our ethos is education through fun!

  19. Abinger Roughs and Netley Park

    Type

    Type:

    Nature Trail / Watching

    Dorking

    Hidden woods with ancient trees and flower-sprinkled grasslands, just off the North Downs and Pilgrims Ways

    Abinger Roughs, above the village of Abinger Hammer, is an area of grassland and mixed woodland - some of the mighty oak trees are over…

  20. Rochester Castle

    Type

    Type:

    Castle / Fort

    Rochester

    One of the finest keeps in England. Also the tallest, partly built on the Roman city wall. Good views from the battlements over the River Medway.