Queen Elizabeth Country Park

About

Important Information: Queen Elizabeth Country Park car park is open  – normal hours and parking fees apply and payment is by card only. Toilets are accessible too. For more information please see Queen Elizabeth Country Park's website.

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.

Walking
The park is part of the South Downs National Park and spectacular views await those who head out on foot to discover everything this idyllic spot has to offer. From short easy strolls to longer rambles, there are routes to suit all ages and abilities. And they are all suitable for dogs, as well. The park’s leaflet has details of three permissive walking trails that are waymarked on the ground. ‘The dragon of Butser Hill’ is a short interactive walk designed especially for children. Long distance trails include the South Downs Way, the Staunton Way, the Shipwrights way and the Hangers Way.

Two all-terrain mobility scooters that are free for hire (Trampers) from the Visitor Centre reception. Visitors should contact the visitor centre for availability and terms and conditions.

Cycling
Exploring on two wheels is a fantastic way to get around. Trails are available for both beginners and advanced cyclists, with two permissive bike trails clearly waymarked on the ground. There is a mini wheels track, mini wheels skills area, mountain bike skills area and mountain bike coaching area. Several cycling events and races take place at the park throughout the year. See the website for details. In addition, the Sustrans National Cycle Network routes 22 and 222 pass through the park.

Nature
Venture up the slopes of Butser Hill and discover an array of wildlife. Keen-eyed spotters might find butterflies like the Duke of Burgundy, Chalkhill Blue and Silver-Spotted Skipper. During the summer months, the area is alive with birdsong such as skylarks that sing as they display.

Play Areas
The adventure play park is where you can climb up ropes, scramble over bridges and build a den to hide in. It is a great place for the whole family to have fun. 

Assualt Course and Dog Activity Course
Are you up for a physical challenge? Then test yourself on the monkey bars, rope swings, tyre obstacles and scramble nets in the military-style assault course. Visit the website for height restrictions and group bookings. There is a fun activity course for dogs too, with eight obstacles to challenge canines of all sizes.

Events
The park has an exciting programme of events and activities throughout the year.The park runs holiday activities and trails in the school holidays with themed ones at Christmas, Halloween and Easter. Keep an eye on Queen Elizabeth Country Park's Facebook page or website for details.

Food and Drink
Beechwood Kitchen serves home-made, locally sourced food, nutritious meals, snacks and cakes and a competitively priced selection of teas, coffee and hot chocolate. There are picnic areas throughout the site and family BBQ areas available for hire. The park has its own outdoor pizza oven too, with nearby shelters and seating for groups and families.

Visitor Centre
Pop into the visitor centre shop for local produce, park maps, trails, gifts and information.

Queen Elizabeth Country Park is free to enter but car parking fees apply.