View over High Weald Countryside, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

View over High Weald Countryside

High Weald 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, 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 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.

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

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.

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. 

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Number of results: 229

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  1. Herne Bay Central Beach

    Type

    Type:

    Nature Trail / Watching

    Herne Bay

    A popular bathing area for families with amusements and amenities nearby, and quaint and colourful beach huts to the western end of the seafront between Herne Bay pier and Hampton pier.

  2. Flora Thompson Circular Walk

    Type

    Type:

    Walking

    Liphook

    Flora Thompson, of Lark Rise and Candleford fame, inspired this circular walk on Weavers Down and Holly Hills near Liphook. Flora Thompson came to Liphook in August 1916, when her husband John was appointed postmaster here. In 1926 they bought a…

  3. Grand Union Canal

    Type

    Type:

    Natural Feature

    Milton Keynes

    The Grand Union Canal runs from London to Birmingham crossing straight through the Chilterns. Linking two of the UK’s biggest cities, it is a popular canal route, passing through a variety of surroundings and many picturesque settings.

  4. Ramsgate Main Sands

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    Ramsgate

    Ramsgate offers a popular long stretch of sandy beach situated right next to the only Royal Harbour and Marina in the country.

  5. Alum Chine Beach

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    Bournemouth

    Alum Chine Beach is one of Bournemouth's most popular Blue Flag award-winning beaches. It is wide, clean, sandy and shingle beach situated to the west of Bournemouth, further along from Bournemouth Pier and the town centre. It gently slopes into the…

  6. Queen Elizabeth Country Park

    Type

    Type:

    Country / Royal Park

    Horndean

    With over 2,000 acres of downland and woodland, Queen Elizabeth Country Park is the ideal place to explore, keep fit and enjoy the great outdoors.

  7. Thames Path National Trail

    Type

    Type:

    Walking Tour

    Oxford

    On its way the Trail passes through peaceful water meadows rich in wildlife, historic towns and cities such as Oxford, Henley and Windsor, many lovely villages and some of the best known landmarks of London.

  8. Leysdown Beach

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    Sheerness


    Leysdown is a beach located at the eastern end of the Isle of Sheppey on the north Kent coast.

  9. Sheerness Beach

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    Sheerness

    Sheerness Beach is a shingle beach, bordered by a wide expanse of green open space which leads to the promonade - making it an ideal spot for a picnic. Popular amongst families, it offers plenty of attractions for a great day out.

  10. Wellington Country Park

    Type

    Type:

    Country / Royal Park

    Riseley, Reading

    Wellington Country Park, ‘The Biggest Outdoor play in Berkshire’, was established in 1974 by the Eighth Duke and Duchess of Wellington. Set in 350 acres of beautiful parklands off the A33 between Basingstoke and Reading, Wellington Country Park…

  11. White Horse Wood Country Park

    Type

    Type:

    Parkland / Woodland Garden

    Maidstone

    The White Horse Country Park is set within the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The park offers beautiful countryside, local history and panoramic views and hosts the medieval ruins of Thurnham Castle.

  12. Brighton Beach Bikes

    Type

    Type:

    Cycle/Vehicle Hire

    Brighton

    Brighton & Hove bike hire allows you to ride a bike safely for 15 miles without crossing any busy roads as we’re the only cycle hire service right on the seafront cycle lane.

  13. Branksome Chine Beach

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    Poole

    Branksome Chine is one of the many beautiful beaches in the Poole area, offering sand and stunning views across the coastline. It's Blue Flag status attracts both locals and visitors. It offers a range of facilities, including a beach shop, a car…

  14. Manor Farm

    Type

    Type:

    Farm

    Southampton

    Traditional Hampshire farmstead - range of buildings, farm animals, machinery and equipment, pre-1950's farmhouse and 13thC church set for 1900 - living history site.

  15. One Garden Brighton

    Type

    Type:

    Garden

    Brighton & Hove

    Proudly presented and managed by Plumpton College, One Garden Brighton is a free to enter destination garden, a place to connect with nature and discover something different every day.

  16. Canford Cliffs Beach

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    Poole

    Canford Cliffs is a natural and tranquil area, situated between Shore Road Beach and Branksome Chine Beach. It has Blue Flag status, with sandy cliffs and picturesque wooden huts. It is within walking distance of Canford Cliffs village, which offers…

  17. Kingsgate Bay

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    Broadstairs

    Some of the best examples of sea caves in the country can be found here.

  18. Portchester Castle

    Type

    Type:

    Castle / Fort

    Portchester

    A Roman-Saxon shore fort with Norman additions. A near-perfect keep and Norman church within the walls.

  19. Shanklin Beach

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    SHANKLIN

    Shanklin Beach is a one of the Isle of Wight’s best known stretches of golden sands, which backs onto a traditional English seafront promenade.

  20. Ventnor Beach

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    VENTNOR

    Ventnor beach is the southernmost holiday beach on the Isle of Wight and is well-loved by locals and visitors alike.