Countryside

Discover some of the best countryside in the UK, whether you choose to explore one of the National Parks, National Landscapes (previously known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty), country parks, nature reserves, glorious gardens or waymarked walks of the South East... there's no better place to fall in love with the great outdoors. 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.

The South East 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. 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.

Beautiful Places Near Me

Explore one of the 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 

Unique Countryside

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 River Test, Itchen and Meon are the three main chalk rivers in Hampshire, wandering through some of the most beautiful British countryside, with tranquil water meadows and rolling chalk hills.

There are approximately 50 chalk carved figures across the UK, it is one of the features that makes the UK countryside unique. One of the most famous is the Uffington White Horse in Oxfordshire, which lies to the north of the village of Uffington, just 25 miles outside of Oxford.  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. In Sussex, the Long Man of Wilmington, a giant etched out in slopes of Windover Hill is a located near Eastbourne. Visitors can walk to the bottom or top and discuss the mysteries surrounding its purpose on the way - maybe the 72 metre anicent warrior is guarding the old Wilmington priory!

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. 

Best Views Near Me

• 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 near Eastbourne, with its dramatic scenery and amazing views, the highest chalk cliff in the South East. 
• Take a wander up St Catherines Hill, on the outskirts of Winchester for breath-taking views over the city. 
• Head to Butser Hill the highest point in Hampshire, part of the world's newest International Dark Sky Reserve. 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.
• Experience the panoramic vistas from the top of Tennyson Down on the Isle of Wight.  Look out for the famous Needles lighthouse, Yarmouth Harbour and the English Channel.
• Head to the historic village of Abingdon and take a stroll along the River Thames. Look out for Abbey Meadows, Abingdon Lock an the view of the church steeple made famous by John Constable pencil drawing 'A view of Abingdon from the river'. 
• The iconic Long Walk is a must on any visit to Berkshire, the tree lined two and a half mile walk is picture postcard perfect at anytime of the year.
• 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.
• 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. 

Countryside near me

Scroll through the extensive list below to help discover a host of great outdoor adventures to enjoy on your next visit. 

A wander through the South East countryside is a must whenever you visit! Whether its to enjoy the views through the bear trees (November - January), the carpets of white snowdrops (January - February), the stunning bluebells walks that follow (April - May), the glourious leafy greens and wildflower meadows (May - September) or the rich colours of Autumm (September - October).