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, 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.
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 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.
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.
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: 232
, currently showing 201 to 220.
Natural Feature
Littlehampton
Littlehampton Harbour serves both leisure and commercial users and is a gateway to the Arun Valley.
Animal Collection / Zoo
Weedon Lois, TOWCESTER
Try something different - take a Llama to lunch! Discover the beautiful Northamptonshire countryside leading one of our gentle llamas along bridleways and country lanes. Half day experience or full day treks with llamas or donkeys.
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.
Model / Miniature Village
GODSHILL
RHS Partner Garden & Winner of Wight in Bloom Small Tourist Attraction 2016
This beautiful Model Village nestles in the grounds of the Old Vicarage. Set in nearly two acres of gorgeous landscaped gardens this is a real retro find - a…
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.
Church / Chapel
Guildford
A beautiful church on the North Downs Way, it offers great views of the countryside.
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.
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.
Country / Royal Park
Herne Bay
The twin towers of St Mary's Church are a distinctive feature of the north Kent coast. They are visible for miles around, guiding visitors as they have guided sailors for centuries. But there is much more to Reculver than the towers...
Historic Site
Hastings
These acres of caverns conceal Hastings' exhilarating history of smugglers, bootleggers and warring gangs.
Country / Royal Park
Aldershot
Brickfields Country Park, possibly the smallest country park in the UK.
Country / Royal Park
Lightwater
The Country Park is predominately heathland habitat, but there are also ponds, woodland, shrubs and lowland bog
Country / Royal Park
Gillingham
Riverside Country Park is an excellent site for Winter birdwatching.
Situated alongside the Medway Estuary at Gillingham, the park is made up of many different habitats, including ponds, reedbed and grassland.
Cave
West Wycombe
Caves dug into chalk hillside extending to approximately 0.75 mile. Enter through a flint forecourt reminiscent of a Gothic church and explore many chambers.
Viewpoint
Hindhead
Open the gate and step into a colourful mosaic of purple, greens and gold. All is quiet apart from the sounds of nature. Visit and discover why Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punchbowl is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Castles & Stately Homes
Basingstoke
he Vyne is a warm red-bricked Tudor mansion built in the 16th century for Lord Sandys, Henry VIII's Lord Chamberlain, which later passed into the hands of the Chute family, who cared for the house and estate for over 300 years. It was remodelled to…
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.
Country / Royal Park
Finchampstead
One-hundred-and-fifty acres of beautiful and varied countryside, Longmoor Nature Reserve, 6-acre lake, public coarse fishery, paddling pool, play area, and cafe.
Garden Centre
Bampton
Bampton Garden Plants started out as a small plant sale that occurred a couple of times a year serving local residents in and around the village of Bampton.
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.