View over Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour

Brownsea Island

Dorset 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. 

Number of results:

Number of results: 229

, currently showing 201 to 220.

  1. Devil's Dyke

    Type

    Type:

    Historic Site

    Brighton

    Devil’s Dyke, part of National Tust is just five miles north of Brighton, offers stunning panoramas, a record breaking valley, a curious history and England’s most colourful habitat.

  2. Padworth Common

    Type

    Type:

    Nature Reserve

    Thatcham

    Wonderful countryside sites, both hosting a wide varierty of plants and animals and perfect for walks.

  3. Bocketts Farm Park

    Type

    Type:

    Farm

    Leatherhead

    Set in the beautiful countryside, Bocketts Farm offers a great day out whatever the weather! There are a large variety of friendly farm animals to feed and stroke, and lots of attractions for all the family, both inside and out.

  4. 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.

  5. 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…

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. Leith Hill

    Type

    Type:

    Viewpoint

    Dorking

    Set in the beautiful Surrey Hills Leith Hill has always been a popular place for visitors as there are so many adventures to be had and interesting spots to explore. Climb to the top of the tower and admire the views from the highest point in…

  9. Southwater Country Park

    Type

    Type:

    Country / Royal Park

    Horsham

    This 90 acre (36 ha) site, created from a former brickworks, has level surfaced paths which provide an easy-going lakeside walk. Offering a selection of outdoor activities including an adventure-style play area.

  10. Sheldonian Theatre

    Type

    Type:

    Historic Site

    Oxford

    Secular venue for the principal meetings & public ceremonies of the university.

  11. 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.

  12. Bookham Common

    Type

    Type:

    Natural Feature

    Leatherhead

    Ancient commons, mentioned in the Domesday Book, with grassland plains, mighty oak woods and serene ponds

  13. Hotham Park

    Type

    Type:

    Parkland / Woodland Garden

    BOGNOR REGIS

    Just five minutes walk from Bognor Regis Town Centre, and two minutes from the seafront and Butlins Resort, Hotham Park is a delightful place to while away the day at little or no cost!

  14. Romantic Days Out in Arundel

    Type

    Type:

    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.

  15. Fossil hunting at Bognor Regis Beach

    Type

    Type:

    Beach

    Aldwick and, Bognor Regis

    London Clay good for fossil hunting, particularly around Bognor Rocks, west of pier and along to Aldwick Rocks

  16. Lambourn Trainers Association

    Type

    Type:

    Natural Feature

    Lambourn, Hungerford

    Tours of Racehorse Stables includes gallops, racing stables, equine swimming pool, Hall of Fame and a tour of new staff housing.

  17. Capstone Farm Country Park

    Type

    Type:

    Country / Royal Park

    Gillingham

    Capstone Farm Country Park is one of Medway's finest green spaces, offering wonderful opportunities for walking, running, cycling and more in 114 hectares of former farmland on the North Downs.

  18. Lakeside Country Park

    Type

    Type:

    Country / Royal Park

    Eastleigh

    Sixty acres of lakes, meadow and young woodland situated between Eastleigh and Southampton with easy access.

  19. Mapledurham Watermill

    Type

    Type:

    Water Mill

    Reading

    The last working corn and grist watermill on the Thames with parts dating from the 15thC. Flour produced is sold in the shop, and the traditional working machinery can be viewed.

  20. Hardwick Parks Watersports Park

    Type

    Type:

    Lake / Reservoir

    Standlake

    The watersports centre is located between our two lakes. We have a wide variety of watersports available both on a board and on your feet! There's no better day out than one on the water!