East Sussex
Getting out and about to exercise is a welcome escape from the four walls at the moment and is proven to improve our health and wellness. South East of England has a wealth of countryside to get out in and explore, and with lots of space, social distancing is easy.
South East England has two National Parks covering over 2,193km2 between them. The New Forest in Hampshire and South Downs, which stretches with rolling hills from Winchester to Eastbourne.
We encouage you to enjoy the countryside at every opportunity, it is so good for our well being. However, whilst you are out and about remember to follow the Countryside Code. RESPECT - PROTECT - ENJOY. This code contains advice for the public and landowners, making it easier for visitors to help respect, protect and enjoy the outdoors.
Both our national parks have an excellent selection of walking and cycling routes, and their is plenty to keep the children entertained to. Looking out for ponies, horses, cows and even pigs roaming free around the New Forest while the South Downs has a selection of stunning viewpoints including Devils Dyke, White Cliffs of Dover and Beachy Head.
The South East also benefits from nine areas of outstanding natural beauty. These areas have been recognised for their exceptional landscape, character and natural beauty, and are prized enough to be protected for all to enjoy.
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 coastline with heritage status, nature reserves, woodlands, chalk hills and stunning views that'll test the memory of any smartphone camera.
South East England's countryside also includes leafy Surrey near London. Newlands Corner, Box Hill and Leith Hill offer outstanding viewpoints around Guildford while the Wey and Arun Canal Trust offer the chance to discover the countryside from a different perspective.
Highdown Gardens in Worthing, created out of a chalk pit over-looking the Downs, offers a beautiful collection of unusual plants and trees including the National Plant Collection introduced by Sir Fredrick Stern. A visit to Worthing's countryside isn't complete without a trip to Cissbury Ring, the largest hill fort in Sussex and history dating back 5,000 years.
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.
The rural geography of South East England makes for ideal star gazing spots to wonder in the night sky. Butser Ancient Farm in Hampshire is one such location, along with the South Downs National Park which is the world's newest International Dark Sky Reserve and the Isle of Wight a UNESCO Biosphere reserve, but anywhere away from the lights of urban centres is a great place to start.
Number of results: 220
, currently showing 21 to 40.
Forest
Crowborough
"A hidden treat". A unique 61 acre family-run working woodland, where you can still see traditional coppicing. Fascinating and beautiful at all seasons, with miles of paths and tracks to explore, including springtime bluebell walk.
Country / Royal Park
Southampton
Once the site of one of the largest Victorian military hospitals, view images & information about Royal Victoria Country Park, set in 200-acres of parkland
Historic House / Palace
Stansted Park is home to stunning weddings, forest walks, afternoon teas and some of the best events in the south! Visit the Mansion for a real sense of a bygone era.
Beach
Sandown
Yaverland Beach is one of the Isle of Wight’s best beaches, providing a long stretch of sand and great swimming waters for children and families.
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.
Beach
Margate
This is a great family beach with a sandy bay with a small section of sand at high tide.
Forest
CRANBROOK
Bedgebury offers a world-class conifer collection and the best mountain-biking, cycling, riding, walking and active play facilities in SE England.
Country / Royal Park
Seaford
Situated in the Sussex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Seven Sisters Country Park comprises 280 hectares of chalk cliffs, meandering river valley and open chalk grassland.
Animal Collection / Zoo
Andover
The Hawk Conservancy Trust is a visitor centre and conservation charity that works in the fields of conservation, education, rehabilitation and research of birds of prey.
Natural Feature
Dorking
Dramatic and stunning chalk escarpment with panoramic views
With amazing views towards Leith Hill, the highest point in south east England, Denbies Hillside is a great spot for wildlife-watching.
Named after John Denby, a 17th-century farmer,…
Beach
Broadstairs
A small popular tucked away bay that is great for rock pooling with a promenade café
Formal Garden
Etchingham
This plant nursery, shop, garden and tearoom is a hidden gem in the High Weald.
Walking
Chawton
Come and discover the beautiful countryside that inspired Jane Austen and take a peek inside her house where she lived and worked for 8 years.
Nature Trail / Watching
Polegate
The Cuckoo Trail is 11 miles long joining three of the district’s towns, Heathfield, Hailsham and Polegate. It also passes through the villages of Horam and Hellingly.
Nature Reserve
Hill Head
Wetland nature reserve with varied habitats including river, marshland and scrapes. Excellent birdwatching with easy access to the viewing hides. Good views of other wildlife.
Nature Reserve
Arlington
Enjoy vistas of bluebells in 23 acres of ancient woodland. Walks and trails through three farms. Countryside exhibition. One walk is wheelchair friendly.
Farm
Woodchurch
Large collection of rare farm breeds on a working farm with children's play activities. Home to the 'Tamworth Two'. Woodland walks.
Garden
Hailsham
Herstmonceux is renowned for its magnificent moated castle, set in 550 acres of glorious parkland and superb Elizabethan gardens.
Beach
Ventnor
Ventnor beach is the southernmost holiday beach on the Isle of Wight and is well-loved by locals and visitors alike.
Beach
Ramsgate
Ramsgate offers a popular long stretch of sandy beach situated right next to the only Royal Harbour and Marina in the country.