Viewspring/Summer 2018

FREE win a family ticket to Marwell Zoo on page 20

SHARING STORIES FROM BRITAIN’S NEWEST NATIONAL PARK SOUTHDOWNS VIEW SPRING/SUMMER 2018

WHAT TO SEE AND WOODLAND WALKING FOR DO Page 12 WONDERS Page 16 HEALTH Page 18 © SDNPA © Rebecca Saunders/SDNPA Carver © Val © SDNPA

Sign up for the South Downs newsletter at southdowns.gov.uk/newsletter 2 SOUTHDOWNS VIEW 2018 southdowns.gov.uk We celebrate the beauty of the CONTENTS National Park by sharing with you WELCOME... the winners of 2017/18’s photo WHAT THE NATIONAL PARK competition with the theme ‘Growing DOES FOR YOU...... 3 To the South Downs National Park. Places’. We had some fantastic entries and I’m sure you will agree WINNING PICTURES FROM THE Spring and heathlands (page 5) and how when you see the four winners on SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK summer are a important our chalk grassland is to PHOTO COMPETITION 2017/18.....4 page 4. If you fancy your chances great time to our landscape, the wildlife that lives then enter this year’s competition HEATHLANDS REUNITED...... 5 get outside and there and the impact that it has on (see page 4 for details). explore all that the water that we drink (pages 6 & 7). This edition we have decided to CHALK GRASSLAND – RARE AS the South Downs To further highlight the importance focus not on local food as we usually RAINFOREST...... 6 National Park of chalk grassland in the South Downs, do, but on the fantastic beverages HOW PRECIOUS IS YOUR WATER?...7 has to offer. With Discover National Parks Week kicks off over 3,300km on July 22 with our free Flagship Wild produced in the South Downs from WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MEND still and sparkling wine and cider, Charlie Hellewell of rights of Chalk Family Fun Day at East Brighton THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY...... 8 to locally brewed real ale and even Editor way there is a Park. Find out more about this and natural mineral water. Drink it all in SHOW YOUR LOVE FOR THE multitude of the other events happening during the on page 21. NATIONAL PARK...... 9 routes, ancient week, on page 19. drove ways and well-worn paths There is also a feature about Finally, if you have ever come 2018 EVENTS SPRING/SUMMER.....10 to explore on foot, by bike or on one of our partners, Marwell Zoo across one of our rangers out in the WHERE TO GO AND WHAT horseback. We all know the health (page 20) giving details of their field you may have wondered what TO DO IN THE SOUTH DOWNS benefits of getting out in the great new Tropical House opening in the they actually do in a day. Page 23 NATIONAL PARK...... 12 outdoors and pages 18 & 19 give spring and a competition offering an gives a bit of clue. A day enjoying you some great suggestions for how opportunity to win a family ticket to the beauty of the South Downs WOODLAND WONDERS...... 16 to go about it. visit them. National Park sounds like fun to me. HEALTH WALKS...... 18 In the centre pages you’ll find a map of the whole National Park with WHERE TO WALK IN THE NATIONAL lots of ideas for places to visit and SIGN UP TO THE SOUTH DOWNS PARK THIS SPRING/SUMMER...... 19 great opportunities for adventure NEWSLETTER AND WIN PRIZES over the summer months. For even MARWELL ZOO...... 20 more ideas there is the usual bumper Keep up to date with the latest news National Park even more – from DRINK LOCAL...... 21 pull out of Spring / Summer events and events from the South Downs days out to outdoor kit. happening in the National Park National Park. Find out more and sign up NATIONAL PARK ENTRY SIGNS...... 22 (pages 10–15). Every month you’ll have the chance at southdowns.gov.uk/ RANGER DIARY...... 23 We are also showcasing what to win a prize to help you enjoy the newsletter makes our woodlands special (page TAKE THE LEAD...... 24 16), how to enjoy our precious

Haslemere Visitor Information Centre THE SOUTH DOWNS CENTRE INFORMATION haslemere.com/vic POINTS 01428 645425 Horsham Visitor Information Centre Aldershot Visitor Information Centre visithorsham.co.uk visit-hampshire.co.uk 01403 597474 01252 320968 Lewes Tourist Information Centre Arundel Visitor Information Point staylewes.org arundel.org.uk 01273 483448 01903 885866 Littlehampton Tourist Information Bognor Regis Visitor Information Centre Point lookandsea.co.uk sussexbythesea.com 01903 718984 Brighton Tourist Information Point Seaford Tourist Information Centre visitbrighton.com

© SDNPA/Anne-Katrin Purkiss © SDNPA/Anne-Katrin seafordtown.co.uk 01273 290337 01323 897426 Burgess Hill Tourist Information Worthing Visitor Information Centre The home of the National Park OPENING HOURS Centre discoverworthing.uk burgesshill.gov.uk/leisuretourism Authority, the South Downs Centre Monday to Thursday: 01903 221066 in Midhurst is also a community 09:00–17:00 01444 238202 Winchester City Mill and Shop hub, visitor information centre, an Friday: 09:00–16:30 Chichester Tourist Information Centre visitwinchester.co.uk/winchester-city- exhibition about the National Park Saturday & Bank Holidays: visitchichester.org mill-shop and a green conference centre. (open from Easter to end of 01243 775888 October only): 09:00–13:00 01962 870057 Eastbourne Tourist Information Centre South Downs Centre, Winchester Tourist Information Centre visiteastbourne.com Midhurst southdowns.gov.uk visitwinchester.co.uk 01323 415415 GU29 9DH 01962 840500 01730 814810

THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK southdowns.gov.uk SPRING/SUMMER 2018 3

THE FUTURE WHAT THE Our farmers and land managers are the custodians of the wonderful ‘natural capital’ of the South Downs; NATIONAL PARK the clean air, the healthy soil and chalk aquifers which give rise to so many of the benefits we probably take for granted, but which we DOES FOR YOU need to value more and more as our population grows. The South Downs are often referred to as the lungs of south-east England, Brexit will bring about a change a space to breathe and escape the bustle of city life. It is easy to to the way in which farm subsidies are awarded, but it is vital that underestimate the benefits we all get from the natural environment. they continue to build on the work farmers already put in to FRESH AIR FRESH WATER FRESH FOOD safeguard the precious ‘natural capital’ of the National Park. © SDNPA © SDNPA Haller © SDNPA/Mischa

With great public transport links it The iconic chalk hills of the South The South Downs are blessed with has never been easier to explore Downs act as a huge sponge which many fine food and drink producers the South Downs National Park filters and stores rainwater, feeds and outlets where visitors can buy or and enjoy the health and wellbeing rivers and streams, supports wildlife eat local produce. While eating this benefits of being out and about in and provides fresh water for people food and drink, we can appreciate this exhilarating landscape. and industry. the landscape that helped create it. © SDNPA MAKE THE MOST OF IT

Are you ready for an adventure? If the sea is your thing then walk 4 along the Sussex Heritage Coast Follow in the footsteps of Gilbert stretching from Eastbourne, along the iconic 1 White, the pioneering 18th Century chalk cliffs of Beachy Head and the Seven British naturalist by completing some or all of Sisters, past Cuckmere Haven and on to the 6 mile figure-of-eight Gilbert White Literary SDNPA © Splash Point at Seaford. Don’t forget to also Walk near Selborne. Visit easthants.gov. look inland and appreciate the gently rolling © Gilbert White’s House Museum uk/gilbert-white-literary-walk-1-mb downs and valleys.

Wander the streets of historic Experience the stunning regal 2 Lewes and explore one of the earliest 5 sight of heather in bloom during Norman strongholds in England – Lewes August and September at your local heath. Castle. Check out this and other car-free days- Try Iping Common near Midhurst or Chapel out on our website southdowns.gov.uk/ Common near Liphook. Listen for skylarks or go-southdowns spot a sand lizard basking.

Get the wind in your hair, Discover the twisted and 3 conquer the challenging slopes, enjoy 6 ancient yew trees at Kingley the exhilarating descents and embrace the Vale National Nature Reserve near breathtaking landscapes as you cycle part of Chichester. Several of the distinctive gnarled the South Downs Way. Visit southdowns. yews are among the oldest living things in

gov.uk/mountainbikeguide Britain – at over 500 years old. © www.JamesGilesPhotography.co.uk ©

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW 4 SOUTHDOWNS VIEW 2018 southdowns.gov.uk WINNING PICTURES FROM THE SOUTH DOWNS PHOTO COMPETITION 2017/18 A golden harvest, a band of curious cows and a stark winter field Our theme, Growing Places, inspired a record number of entries for the 2017/18 photo competition but Ron De’Ath was the worthy winner for his extraordinary composition capturing the shifting seasons from summer to autumn.

Ron De’Ath subverted what © Dominic Vacher/SDNPA could have been a conventional The judges were impressed by the bold, almost human, harvest shot composition and high level of detail in Dominic Vacher’s photo – making the ‘Staredown’. Three of the cattle are Sussex Red, a traditional local rare unusual choice breed, which have been grazed in this part of the country since the Bronze Age. to frame the picture vertically and leave out the sky entirely. The result , entitled ‘Harvest Home’, is a wonderful winding journey through chalk grassland, ploughed earth and woodland, past farm house and field margins and on to freshly harvested crops, leaving no doubt that people

live and work in this © Simon Verrall/SDNPA landscape. Simon Verrall’s photo ‘Rolling Down’ is a simple, modern composition that captures a complicated tale of farming in the © Ron De’Ath/SDNPA South Downs. At first glance this image might look stark but here the light soil is everything and the farmer is carefully cultivating the ground using a modern ‘Sussex Farming’ practice called ‘conservation tillage’. Come spring, this field will certainly be a . An by Tom Hard place that grows and hopefully home to rare farmland birds such as skylark. PEOPLE’S atmospheric shot CHOICE with great depth and light that completely captures the spirit THANK YOU of the South Downs A huge thank you to our competition judges: Steve Watkins, editor as a growing place. of Outdoor Photography magazine; local photographer and gallery owner This image was Finn Hopson; Rachael Talibart, winner of the Sunday Times Magazine’s selected as the Landscape Photographer of the Year in 2016; Nick Heasman, SDNPA People’s Choice Countryside & Policy Manager and Doug Jones, SDNPA Member. following an online survey showcasing the shortlisted THINK YOU CAN DO BETTER? photographs. ENTER THE SOUTH DOWNS WIN PHOTO COMPETITION 2018-19 £250 Theme: Perfectly Seasoned Our judges are looking for something different. Can you capture a fresh perspective on the changing seasons in the National Park? Impress them to win the first prize of £250. Competition closes at midday on Friday 19 October 2018. To enter, and for full terms and conditions visit: southdowns.gov.uk/enter-the-south-downs-photo-competition © Tom Hard/SDNPA © Tom

THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK southdowns.gov.uk SPRING/SUMMER 2018 5

FREEFAMILY EVENT

SECRETS OF THE HEATH 8 & 9 September 2018 (10:00–17:00) Come and learn about the © SDNPA/David Tipling © SDNPA/David history of the heath. A free family event at Petersfield involvement, this project aims to Heath over two days with protect and improve key heathland educational activities ENJOY THE sites, not only for the rare plants and for the whole family, re- animals that call them home, but for enactors and birds of prey HEATHLANDS walkers, birdwatchers and nature display. enthusiasts alike. Only 1 per cent of our precious heathland habitat For details of this and remains in the South Downs National Park... Active management other heathland events Heathlands only exist today over the summer months ...mostly separated into small reunite 41 rare heathland sites in the because of human intervention over see the event pages (pages ‘islands’ where isolated plants and South Downs, creating up to 1,500 thousands of years. This means 10–15) or southdowns. animals are far more vulnerable to football pitches worth of heathland. that if heathlands aren’t actively gov.uk/events local extinction. So in 2016, with managed by people – by local Purple Paradise For volunteering 10 other partner organisations we communities, conservation groups, Their ease of access, the sandy soils opportunities visit: decided to do something about it! underfoot, combined with the striking the National Park Authority or others southdowns.gov.uk/ The Heritage Lottery Funded purple heather make heathlands – they will be lost along with the rare heathlands-reunited project Heathlands Reunited precious sites for recreation. With and endangered species that live has ambitious plans to restore and a focus on partner and community there.

HEATHLAND ARTIST COMMISSIONED Over the past few months we’ve been asking local communities to share their stories about the Examples of Graeme’s work REMEMBER TO history and heritage of their local ‘TAKE THE LEAD’ ON heathlands to help inspire new National Park to tell the story of why past economic importance to their THE HEATH pieces of art commissioned from heaths are so important – reflecting rare plants and animals. For more artist Graeme Mitcheson. The works what each community values about detail: southdowns.gov.uk/ SEE THE BACK PAGE FOR will link seven heathland sites in the their heath – from their history and heathlands-reunited MORE INFORMATION

HEATHLAND WILDLIFE TO SPOT

FREEFAMILY FUN DAY © SDNPA/Charlie Hellewell © SDNPA/Charlie © SDNPA

WILD CHALK CHALK GRASSLAND – FAMILY FUN RARE AS RAINFOREST DAY To kick off National Parks The iconic chalk downland of the South Downs National Park was once Week, join us to celebrate widespread. the wildlife, history and Today, much of this precious habitat away many of the minerals normally of chalk grassland – it has been amazing water filtering has been lost, and now only makes needed for plants to grow, so over called the European equivalent of properties of our chalk up 4 per cent of the National Park. many centuries, very specialised tropical rainforest. This diversity of grassland at East Brighton During World War II many of the plants have evolved that can cope plants means that there are also Park near Sheepcote chalk grassland areas in the South with this poor soil, and many insects, many types of insect. You may Valley, Brighton. Downs were ploughed up for food bees and butterflies have evolved with find rare plants such as the round- production and have since remained them. The plants are low growing, headed rampion, a variety of orchids Sunday 22 July and are adapted to being grazed by in cultivation. Other chalk grassland such as the pyramidal orchid and rabbits and sheep, so it is important sites have been lost to development butterflies including the Adonis blue 11:00–17:00 to keep up this grazing regime, to or through lack of management. maintain the conditions under which and chalk hill blue. Chalk grassland Sponsored by: We need to look after what is these unique plants thrive. also provides feeding and breeding left. Chalk grassland only occurs on habitat for a number of threatened thin soils covering chalk rocks, as Rich wildlife habitat birds such as the stone curlew, corn in the South Downs. As rainwater Up to 45 species of flowering plants bunting, turtle dove and skylark. It’s soaks through the chalk it washes can be found in one square metre worth protecting.

CHALK GRASSLAND WILDLIFE TO SPOT © Neil Hulme Knowlson © SDNPA/Jan © Mary Shotter Knowlson © SDNPA/Jan

Adonis blue Pyramidal orchid Round headed rampion Buff-tailed bumblebee & hoverfly

THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK southdowns.gov.uk SPRING/SUMMER 2018 7 © SDNPA

A WORD ABOUT WATER 100% OPLE Did you know that most of the water we use in the south east comes from of PE ea rely within the ChaMP erar for the chalk rock beneath our feet? on the chalk aquif Chalk acts like a massive sponge, may source water from reservoirs directly out of the chalk rock into the their water supply soaking up rainwater as it falls and rivers, water companies around sea. Its quality is therefore important on the surface above and holding Brighton pump the water out of the not only to us but to wildlife too. it underground in what is known aquifer which then becomes the as an aquifer. The quality of the water we drink and bathe in as well groundwater stored in the aquifer is as the water which grows our food. It 6 vitally important to us. Unlike other also flows into some streams, rivers areas around the country which and wetlands as well as passing 4,774YS mg/l AKAWA 50 chalk groundwater. It’s working SO in Brighton, potentiallyer with of NITRA with farmers to reduce nitrates from polluting theﬀ aquif is the drinkingTE waterS fertilisers and manure flushing oad run-o r standar through soil into the aquifer. One d in the UK way to do this is to plant cover crops over winter rather than leaving the soil bare. These crops can take up excess nitrates in the soil and use WHO MAKES UP THE ChaMP them to grow, effectively locking them up and preventing them PARTNERSHIP? © SDNPA reaching the precious groundwater. ChaMP is a partnership between the South Downs National Park and the following agencies: Driving our cars also contributes PROTECTING to pollution. Brake pads and tyres wear down releasing lead, copper YOUR WATER and zinc. Fuel and oils sometimes Chalk can filter out some spill onto the roads, and air pollution impurities, but pollution can can settle onto the ground. This toxic still get through. Nitrates are mix is then washed into drains which a particular concern, not just can be connected to the aquifer. in the South Downs National ChaMP is creating rainscapes as Park, but even globally. one solution. Rainscapes are planted Brighton ChaMP (Chalk areas which receive this polluted Management Partnership) for water and then bacteria naturally Working together with other organisations and landowners we are striving Water is a project taking action found in soil and plant roots cleans to protect our precious groundwater for many years to come. to tackle pollution threatening the it up. brightonchamp.org.uk

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW 8 SOUTHDOWNS VIEW 2018 southdowns.gov.uk WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MEND THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY! The South Downs Way, our amazing 100 mile national trail, runs the length of the National Park. © Miles Davies

20,000 people walk, cycle or ride of significant projects which, because the 100 mile length each year and they are on more remote sections of millions more will explore sections the path, are too expensive to tackle WHAT NEEDS TO BE of the trail. This year we’re asking using existing funds. Each year, as the everyone who loves using it to help erosion and mud gets worse, they get DONE? raise £120,000 to mend broken more damaged and become harder sections of the trail. to fix.”  Old Winchester Hill  Millpond Bottom (Pen Hill, “We know how much people love (Hampshire) West Sussex) the South Downs Way,” says Andy The ‘Mend our Way’ One of the most iconic hills in the This is a remote part of the South Gattiker, South Downs Way National campaign is being run by Hampshire Downs, a Scheduled Downs Way, popular for its tranquil Trail lead officer. “You share glorious the South Downs National Ancient Monument Fort as well setting and stunning views. £15,000 photos and stories with us every day Park Trust, a new charity as a National Nature Reserve. is needed to properly mend the – now we’re asking for your help to which works with partners Every winter the route up to Old churned up chalk track. mend it.” to protect the National Park Winchester Hill becomes a slippery “Fifteen thousand pairs of boots, for future generations. Find muddy strip. £50,000 will pay to  Plumpton Plain (near 10,000 tyres and 800 hooves out more and pledge your strip away the mud and replace the Ditchling Beacon, East Sussex) travelling the length of the trail each support at southdowns. surface with stones. This busy section lies between year cause a lot of wear and tear! gov.uk/mendourway Ditchling Beacon, one of the highest Existing funding allows us to make  Hyden Lane (near Butser points on the South Downs Way, most repairs but there are a number Hill, Hampshire) and the historic county town of ALTON Hyden Lane is the highest point Lewes. Water sits on the almost on the chalk ridge of the South level path so it will take £25,000 to WINCHESTER Downs and busy year round but repair and strengthen it as well as poor drainage on the path is also adding drainage.  PETERSFIELD MIDHURST a problem here. Large puddles of  PULBOROUGH SOU standing water are often trapped on TH DO WNS WAY the track and cause the surface to  LEWES break up quickly. £30,000 will pay CHICHESTER  BRIGHTON for additional limestone scalpings to & HOVE form a raised, cambered track. EASTBOURNE

‘Mend our Way’ is part of the national ‘Make a Million’ initiative, run by the British Mountaineering Council, seeking to raise £1,000,000 for some of the UK’s most treasured trails. Find out more at: mendmountains.thebmc.co.uk © John Wigley

THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK southdowns.gov.uk SPRING/SUMMER 2018 9

HOW TO HELP

“By donating through our website or leaving a lasting gift in your will you can show your love for the National Park. Or for the price of a cinema ticket you could help a child take part in an outdoor education activity that helps them discover the National Park for the first time.”

Toni Shaw, Trustee for the South Downs National Park Trust.

To donate: visit southdownstrust.org.uk © SDNPA/Anne-Katrin Purkiss © SDNPA/Anne-Katrin

in October 2017 actor Hugh Bonneville, star of ITV’s Downton LOVE YOUR Abbey and the Paddington movies, showed his support for the Trust. “The South Downs has been my home on and off for 40 years. NATIONAL PARK Like thousands of others, locals For the price of just a coffee we could create a and visitors alike, I appreciate the moments for reflection and square metre of wildflower meadow, providing a inspiration that the South Downs nectar source for bees and butterflies. National Park gives me. “The South Downs National Park The UK’s newest National Park support and care of those who love Trust is a great opportunity for us serves one of the busiest parts of it. to give something back, to help the UK with 2 million people living The South Downs National care for the National Park and help within 5 kilometres. Park Trust is a new, independent more people gain access to it and As more people use and benefit charity set up to work with partners enjoy it.” from the National Park, it is coming to “enhance and protect the under increasing pressure and South Downs National Park for southdownstrust.org.uk can only be conserved through the future generations”. At its launch Saunders © SDNPA/Rebecca

SOUTH DOWNS GEOTOUR The South Downs GeoTour is England’s first GeoTour, and an exciting way to discover the hidden gems of this special landscape. There are 30 geocaches in the tour. Join in the challenge to earn your own souvenir GeoCoin – made especially for us by our sponsors Pulse72. Visit southdowns.gov.uk/geotour to find out more and download your passport. © SDNPA/Anne-Katrin Purkiss © SDNPA/Anne-Katrin

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW 10 SOUTHDOWNS VIEW 2018 southdowns.gov.uk 2018 EVENTS SPRING/SUMMER (cont. page 14)

APRIL 1–2 APRIL Easter Family Fun 31 MARCH–15 APRIL Parham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HS Dusty’s Giant Duck Hunt parhaminsussex.co.uk WWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PB 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, Child £6, wwt.org.uk/arundel Under 5s FREE 01903 881530 General admission FROM 1 MARCH 31 MARCH & 1 APRIL Nature Tots Lambing Open Day Various locations in the National Park Saddlescombe Farm, BN45 7DE sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/what-we-do/environmental- camillaandroly.co.uk education/nature-tots 01273 857062 Tickets: Family of 4 £20, Adults £8, [email protected] Child £4, Under 2s FREE Tickets: See details online 1–2 APRIL 3–15 APRIL Easter Family Fun Spring Nature trail Parham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HS National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TL parhaminsussex.co.uk nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, Child £6, 01323 871961 General admission © SDNPA Under 5s FREE 3–13 APRIL 10 MARCH–15 APRIL Signs of Spring family trail Bank holiday Monday 28 May Lambing Time at Coombes National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB Church Farm, Coombes, Lancing, Sussex BN15 0RS nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on GILBERT WHITE’S HOUSE – NATURE FESTIVAL 01323 423197 Donations only coombes.co.uk Where: Gilbert White’s House, High Street, Selborne, Hampshire GU34 3JH 01273 452028 Tickets: Adults £3, Child £2. 6 APRIL Tractor rides £2.50 Devil’s Dyke Egg rolling competition Details: A perfect day out for inquisitive kids. Back for its third year the popular Nature Festival pulls together many nature and wildlife organisations and experts who will be 29 MARCH–16 APRIL National Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJ Easter Holiday Activities: Wild in Winchester with the nationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on running activities, stalls, talks and tours through the day. Butterfly Conservation 01273 857981 Tickets: £1 per egg gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk Winchester Science Centre SO21 1HZ 7–8 APRIL winchestersciencecentre.org The Fabulous Raven Tor Living History Group 01962 863791 FREE with General Admission tickets Bignor Roman Villa, Pulborough RH20 1PH 29 MARCH–16 APRIL bignorromanvilla.co.uk 12 APRIL MAY Wild Woodies Holiday Clubs 01798 869259 Tickets: Adults £6, Groups >10 £5, Welcoming in the wheatears on the Lewes Downs Various locations in the National Park Under 16 £3.50, Groups >10 £2.50 Lewes Downs (meet at BN7 2AN) 22 & 29 APRIL, 6 MAY sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk 7 APRIL sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/whats-on Bluebell Wood Trains [email protected] Beginner Wood Carving [email protected] Hollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, Hants Tickets: See details online WWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PB 0782 783 0891 (on day only) Tickets: Donation please GU30 7LP (SWT members free) 30 MARCH–15 APRIL wwt.org.uk/arundel hollycombe.co.uk Giant Egg Trail 01903 881530 Tickets: £45 14 APRIL 01428 724900 Tickets: Adults £16, Senior £14, Child Marwell Zoo, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JH 7 APRIL Langham Monthly Brewery Tours (other dates £12. Family tickets available. marwell.org.uk/zoo/ Spring animals at Pound Common available by appointment) 22 APRIL & 20 MAY 01962 777407 National Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RR Langham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BU Seven Sisters Archaeology walks langhambrewery.co.uk 30 MARCH–2 APRIL nationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB Meet the Easter Bunny 01730 816638 Tickets: Adults £5, Child £3 01798 860861 Tickets: Tours £12 approx. 2 hours nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on (generous samples). Food available. Marwell Zoo, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JH 9 APRIL 01323 423197 Tickets: £4 marwell.org.uk/zoo/ Dawn Chorus Walk 14 APRIL 22 APRIL 01962 777407 WWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PB Rockpool ramble Saddlescombe Farm open day National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB 1 APRIL EVERY DAY 10.30–16.30 (SUBJECT TO VOLUNTEER wwt.org.uk/arundel National Trust Saddlescombe Rd, near Brighton, West Sussex AVAILABILITY) 01903 881530 Tickets: £10 nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on BN45 7DE Seven Sisters Visitor Centre Opening 01323 423197 Tickets: £4 nationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on Seven Sisters Country Park, Exceat, Seaford, East Sussex, BN25 4AD 15 APRIL 01273 857981 Tickets: Adults £5, Child £3, Family £13 sevensisters.org.uk Spring Industrial Trains 0345 6080193 FREE ADMISSION Amberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9LT amberleymuseum.co.uk NATIONAL TRUST 01798 831370 Tickets: Adults £12.50, Child £7.00 17 APRIL EASTER EGG TRAILS Garden tour National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TL 30 MARCH–2 APRIL 1 APRIL Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Monk’s House Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Woolbeding Parkland nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on 01323 871961 General admission National Trust Monk’s House, Rodmell, near Lewes. BN7 3HF National Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RR nationaltrust.org.uk/monks-house/whats-on nationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on 18 APRIL 01273 474760 Admission + £1.50 per trail 01730 816638 Admission + £3 per trail Space Lecture Winchester Science Centre SO21 1HZ 31 MARCH 30 MARCH–15 APRIL winchestersciencecentre.org Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Swan Barn Farm Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Hinton Ampner National Trust Swan Barn Farm, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 2HU 01962 863791 Tickets: 4:30pm Adults £8, Concessions National Trust Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, Hampshire, £6, 6:30pm Adults £10, Concessions £8. nationaltrust.org.uk/swan-barn-farm/whats-on SO24 0LA 01428 652359 FREE ADMISSION nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner/whats-on 19 APRIL Twilight Tour 30 MARCH–2 APRIL 01962 771305 Admission + £2 per trail National Trust Monk’s House, Rodmell, near Lewes. BN7 3HF Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Alfriston Clergy House Souter © Tony 30 MARCH–15 APRIL nationaltrust.org.uk/monks-house/whats-on National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex. BN26 5TL Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Petworth 01273 474760 Tickets: Booking essential £17.50 10 March – 15 April nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on National Trust Petworth House & Park, Petworth, West Sussex 01323 871961 Admission + £2 per trail GU28 9LR 20 APRIL Welcoming in the wheatears at Seaford Head LAMBING TIME AT COOMBES 30 MARCH–2 APRIL nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth-house-and-park/whats-on Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Birling Gap 01798 342207 Admission + £3 per trail Seaford Head (nearest postcode BN25 4QJ) Where: Come and see 800 ewes sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/whats-on National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussx. BN20 0AB 30 MARCH–15 APRIL lambing and 80 Sussex cows calving at nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/ [email protected] Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Uppark 0782 783 0891 (on day only) Tickets: FREE Coombes Farm, Lancing, Sussex whats-on National Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield BN15 0RS. Also tractor rides to the top 01323 423197 Admission + £3.50 per trail 20 APRIL GU31 5QR of the downs to see the animals more nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on Spring beach clean with Marine Conservation Society 31 MARCH–2 APRIL closely and the fantastic views. Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at Devil’s Dyke 01730 825415 Admission + £2 per trail National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB National Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex. BN1 8YJ nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on Details: coombes.co.uk nationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on 01323 423197 FREE ADMISSION 01273 857981 Admission + £3 per trail THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK southdowns.gov.uk SPRING/SUMMER 2018 11

12–13 MAY 26 MAY JUNE The Fabulous Raven Tor Living History Group After Dark (18+ only) Bignor Roman Villa, Pulborough RH20 1PH Winchester Science Centre SO21 1HZ 2–3 JUNE bignorromanvilla.co.uk winchestersciencecentre.org The Fabulous Raven Tor Living History Group 01798 869259 Tickets: Adults £6, Groups >10 £5, 01962 863791 Tickets: £14.50 Bignor Roman Villa, Pulborough RH20 1PH Under 16 £3.50, Groups >10 £2.50 26 MAY–3 JUNE bignorromanvilla.co.uk 12 MAY New Life Halfterm Activities 01798 869259 Tickets: Adults £6, Groups >10 £5, Minis at the Quarry WWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PB Under 16 £3.50, Groups >10 £2.50 Amberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex wwt.org.uk/arundel BN18 9LT 01903 881530 General admission 2 JUNE amberleymuseum.co.uk 26 MAY–3 JUNE Hit the Trail – Explore the Meon Valley 01798 831370 Tickets: Adult £12.50/Child £7.00 Top Trumps Challenge Meon Valley Trail – see page 19 12 MAY Marwell Zoo, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JH southdowns.gov.uk/events Langham Monthly Brewery Tours marwell.org.uk/zoo/ FREE ADMISSION Langham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BU 01962 777407 26 MAY–3 JUNE langhambrewery.co.uk 16–27 MAY New Life Half-term Activities

© SDNPA/Rebecca Saunders © SDNPA/Rebecca 01798 860861 Tickets: Tours £12 take 2 hours Bushcraft Overnight Survival WWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PB (generous samples). Food available. Sustainability Centre, East Meon, GU32 1HR wwt.org.uk/arundel 14 April, 12 May, 23 June 13 MAY sustainability-centre.org/Adults-courses.html 01903 881530 General admission South Downs Green Fair 01730 823166 Tickets: £95 LANGHAM BREWERY 06 JUNE Sustainability Centre, East Meon, GU32 1HR 28 MAY–1 JUN Drovers, druids and domesday guided walk Details: Book up one of the Langham sustainability-centre.org/Adults-courses.html 50 things to do before you’re 11 3/4 trail National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TL Monthly Brewery tours (other dates 01730 823166 Tickets: Adult £8/Child £3.50 National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on available by appointment) and try some 15 MAY nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on 01323 871961 General admission + Adults £4, Child £3 generous samples of their locally brewed Garden tour 01323 423197 Donations only 8–14 JUNE National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TL craft ale on the way round. 28 MAY Open Cabinet Week nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on Saddlescombe Farm clay oven pizza making National Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield Where: Langham Brewery, The Granary, 01323 871961 General admission National Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJ GU31 5QR Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BU 16–27 MAY nationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on langhambrewery.co.uk Bushcraft Overnight Survival 01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential 01730 825415 General admission Sustainability Centre, East Meon, GU32 1HR Adults £12, Child £6 9 JUNE sustainability-centre.org/Adults-courses.html 28 MAY Rockpool ramble 22 APRIL 01730 823166 Tickets: £95 Nature Festival 2018 National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB Slindon’s secret bluebells guided walk 19–20 MAY Gilbert White & The Oates Collection, Selborne, Hampshire nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on National Trust Slindon Estate, West Sussex BN18 0RH Home Front Weekend GU34 3JH 01323 423197 Tickets: £4 nationaltrust.org.uk/slindon-estate/whats-on Amberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk 01243 814730 Adult £4, Child £2 9 & 10 JUNE Tickets: West Sussex BN18 9LT 01420 511275 Tickets: £7 Adults, £3 Children Wood Engraving Weekend 28 APRIL amberleymuseum.co.uk 29 MAY National Trust Monk’s House, Rodmell, near Lewes. BN7 3HF Live@Langhams Evening of Music and entertainment 01798 831370 Tickets: Adults £12.50, Child £7 Mini Secrets of the Heath nationaltrust.org.uk/monks-house/whats-on Langham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BU 22 APRIL & 20 MAY Shortheath Common, Bordon 0344 249 1895 Tickets: £145 Booking essential langhambrewery.co.uk Seven Sisters Archaeology walks southdowns.gov.uk/Heathlands-reunited 01798 860861 10 JUNE FREE ADMISSION National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB [email protected] Wolstonbury orchid safari 24 & 25 MARCH, 28 & 29 APRIL, 26 & 27 MAY nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on 01730 819320 FREE ADMISSION National Trust Saddlescombe Rd, near Brighton, West Sussex Costume Encounters at Petworth 01323 423197 Tickets £4 31 MAY BN45 7DE National Trust Petworth House & Park, Petworth, West Sussex 12 & 23 MAY Meet the Cattle nationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on GU28 9LR QE Cyclefest Liss Forest Car Park, Liss, Hampshire 01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential all £10 nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth-house-and-park/whats-on Queen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QE southdowns.gov.uk/Heathlands-reunited 01798 342207 General admission 12 JUNE hargrovescycles.co.uk/hub/events/qe-cyclefest/ [email protected] Nightjar and woodcock walk at Older Hill 02 MAY 0782 490 1988/0772 164 2284 Tickets: Register online 01730 819320 FREE ADMISSION National Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RR Manors, meanders and majesty guided walk 26 MAY–3 JUNE 5 MAY–2 SEPTEMBER nationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TL New Life Halfterm Activities Women of Uppark – In her Shoes 01730 816638 Tickets: £3 nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on WWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PB National Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield 01323 871961 Tickets: Admission + Adults £4, Child £3 wwt.org.uk/arundel GU31 5QR 5 MAY 01903 881530 General admission nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on Wood from the Trees 26–28 MAY 01730 825415 General admission Amberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex Traditional Crafts Weekend BN18 9LT Amberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex amberleymuseum.co.uk BN18 9LT 01798 831370 Tickets: Adults £12.50, Child £7 amberleymuseum.co.uk FROM 5 MAY 01798 831370 Tickets: Adults £12.50, Child £7 Elizabeth I live: A Woman Ahead of Her Time 26–28 MAY National Trust Petworth House & Park, Petworth, West Sussex Hollycombe Steam Festival GU28 9LR Hollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, Hants GU30 nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth-house-and-park/whats-on 7LP 01798 342207 General admission hollycombe.co.uk 5 MAY–2 SEPTEMBER 01428 724900 Tickets: Adults £16, Senior £14, Women of Uppark – In her Shoes Child £12. Family tickets available. National Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield 26 MAY–3 JUNE GU31 5QR Harriet & her chickens family garden trail nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TL 01730 825415 General admission nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on 6–7 MAY 01323 871961 General admission Magic Lantern Shows 26 MAY

Hollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, Hants Rockpool ramble © SDNPA GU30 7LP National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB hollycombe.co.uk nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on 10 June 01428 724900 Tickets: Adults £16, Senior £14, 01323 423197 Tickets: £4 Child £12. Family tickets available. 26 MAY–3 JUNE WINCHESTER CRITERIUM & CYCLEFEST 2018 18 APRIL, 9 MAY, 13 JUNE May half-term trail Where: Winchester City Centre Space Lecture National Trust Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0LA Details: Streets will close for a day of all things cycling, with spectacular racing and Winchester Science Centre SO21 1HZ nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner/whats-on winchestersciencecentre.org 01962 771305 General admission + suggested donation £1 a range of activities for all the family, including the South Downs National Park Family 01962 863791 Tickets: 4:30pm Adults £8, Concessions Ride. There will be a ‘Discover the South Downs National Park’ exhibition area in Abbey £6, 6:30pm Adults £10, Concessions £8. 26 MAY–3 JUNE May half-term trail Gardens full of displays and activities to help you understand more about what there is to 11 MAY National Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield see and do in the South Downs. Spring on Seaford Head GU31 5QR To find out more and enter a bike ride or race visit Seaford Head (nearest postcode BN25 4QJ) nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on winchestercriterium.org sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/whats-on 01730 825415 General admission + £1 per trai [email protected] FREE ADMISSION 0782 783 0891 (on day only) Tickets: FREE

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW 12 SOUTHDOWNS VIEW 2018 southdowns.gov.uk ASINGSTOKE ALDERSHOT M3 DORKING WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO IN THE SOUTHGUILDFOR D DOWNS NATIONAL PARK With its rolling hills, majestic woods, crystal clear rivers, stunning cliffs, ‘picture perfect’ villages and heavenly heathland the South Downs National Park has something for everyone. Whether you’re into sampling new foods, discovering new paths or finding that adrenaline kick, the South Downs is the place for you.

FOLLOW GILBERT WHITE’S ZIG ZAG PATH AT SELBORNE ENJOY THE HIGHEST VIEW IN THE SOUTH DOWNS AT BLACKDOWN iew to Old Winchester Hill Hampshire East Meon Hampshire Little utser Hampshire Arundel CastleWe st Sussex Cissbury Ring West Sussex iew from Ditchling eacon East Sussex Seven Sisters East Sussex M23 Lingfield entley Wrecclesham Godalming Charlwood Smallfield Milford Cranleigh ALTON Alice Holt

© SDNPA insted pg Wa © Jonathan Mycock CRAWLE EAST Four GRINSTEAD Marks Hindhead A26 NN2 A31Chawton ordon M3 New M23 WINCHESTER Alresford Selborne Haslemere A22 A31 Liphook Crowborough Selborne A325 Itchen lack Down A23 Monkwood Common Horsham Abbas Northchapel A31 ange A264 A272 Wa Liss Fernhurst St. Catherines Hill Wisborough A26 River Itchen Milland Green A22 PETERSFIELD illingshurst Cuckfield

West Meon NN20 River Rother Woolbeding Twyford East Meon epen 2 A29 Haywards A265 M3 eacon Hilll Iping Common Common A27 A272 Ta Heath A272 A272 Upham utser Hill uriton Old A272 NN2 MIDHURST Petworth urgess Uckfield A32 Winchester South Harting A28 on 3 Heathfield Eastleigh ishopstoke Hill pg Wa Pulborough Ln Hill Droxford Hurstpierpoint A22 ishops Harting Down Cocking A27 River Meon Waltham ueen Eliabeth 9 Henfield Meon Country Park 5 A2 A28 5 6 ae Ta Hambledon Heyshott Down Hassocks A267 Storrington 1 A2 Shirrell A28 Singleton A283Steyning A2 Ditchling Heath Rowlands Castle 3 ignor Hill Fulking Ringmer A27 SOUTHAMPTON Ditchling Te oo A2 Kingley ale Goodwood ry eacon Ta Amberley 4 Wickham A28 Chanctonbury Country Park NN0 LEWES NN2 5 ana9 River Arun Ring A2 Devils Dyke 4 Falmer Glynde Hailsham A3M A28 Findon Lavant o gno erwick Cissbury Ring NN2 A2 3 enon Arundel 7 M27 A Havant NN2 River Adur Mill Hill River Ouse NN0 A22 Wa 7 LOOK DOWN ON WINCHESTER FROM A27 A2 A22 NN2 ST CATHERINE’S HILL Firle eacon FAREHAM Long Man Southease Alfriston CHICHESTER arnham RIGHTON & HOE Ege of Wilmington NN2 Wa Cuckmere River WORTHING Rottingdean A259 CYCLE OFF ROAD AT QUEEN WALK AMONGST THE HEATHER AT NN2 ENJOY CAPABILITYLITT BROWNLEHAM DESIGNEDPTON ELIZABETH COUNTRY PARK IPING COMMON GROUNDS AT PETWORTH HOUSE EASTOURNE A25 GOSPORT N Newhaven 9 OGNOR REGIS Seaford PORTSMOUTH 0 1100 kkmm Seven Sisters East Dean © SDNPA/Sam Moore © SDNPA/Sam ENGLISH CHANNE L Country Park eachy Head

THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK southdowns.gov.uk SPRING/SUMMER 2018 13 ASINGSTOKE ALDERSHOT M3 DORKING WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO IN THE SOUTHGUILDFOR D DOWNS NATIONAL PARK

South Downs National Park Boundary Railway stations South Downs Way Countryside sites South Downs Way Footpath Only Settlement

Multi-user routes Information Points (contact details on page 2) Planned cycle routes No cycling Railway Dark Skies Discovery Sites National Cycle Network routes Viewpoints GO BACK IN TIME AT THE WEALD & DOWNLAND LIVING MUSEUM iew to Old Winchester Hill Hampshire East Meon Hampshire Little utser Hampshire Arundel CastleWe st Sussex Cissbury Ring West Sussex iew from Ditchling eacon East Sussex Seven Sisters East Sussex M23 Lingfield entley Wrecclesham Godalming Charlwood Smallfield Milford Cranleigh ALTON Alice Holt insted pg Wa © Jonathan Mycock CRA© SDNPA WLE EAST Four GRINSTEAD Marks Hindhead A26 NN2 A31Chawton ordon M3 New M23 EXPLORE THE CASTLE AT LEWES WINCHESTER Alresford Selborne Haslemere GET CLOSE TO NATURE AT A22 A31 Liphook PULBOROUGH BROOKS Crowborough Selborne A325 Itchen lack Down A23 Monkwood Common Horsham Abbas Northchapel A31 ange A264 A272 Wa Liss Fernhurst St. Catherines Hill Wisborough A26 River Itchen Milland Green A22 PETERSFIELD illingshurst Cuckfield © SDNPA

West Meon NN20 River Rother © SDNPA Twyford East Meon Woolbeding epen Haywards A26 A272 A29 5 M3 eacon Hilll Iping Common Common Ta Heath A272 A272 IMMERSE YOURSELF IN BLOOMSBURY A272 SET CULTURE AT CHARLESTON HOUSE Upham utser Hill uriton Old A272 NN2 MIDHURST Petworth urgess Uckfield A32 Winchester South Harting A28 on 3 Heathfield Eastleigh ishopstoke Hill pg Wa Pulborough Ln Hill Droxford Hurstpierpoint A22 ishops Harting Down Cocking A27 River Meon Waltham ueen Eliabeth 9 Henfield Meon Country Park 5 A2 A28 5 6 ae Ta Hambledon Heyshott Down Hassocks A267 Storrington 1 A2 Shirrell A28 Singleton A283Steyning A2 Ditchling Heath 3 Rowlands Castle © SDNPA ignor Hill Fulking Ringmer A27 SOUTHAMPTON Ditchling Te oo A2 Kingley ale Goodwood ry eacon Ta Amberley 4 Wickham A28 Chanctonbury Country Park NN0 LEWES NN2 5 ana9 River Arun Ring A2 Devils Dyke 4 Falmer Glynde Hailsham A3M A28 Findon Lavant o gno erwick Cissbury Ring NN2 A2 3 enon Arundel 7 M27 A Havant NN2 River Adur Mill Hill River Ouse NN0 A22 Wa 7 A27 A2 A22 NN2 Firle eacon FAREHAM Long Man Southease Alfriston CHICHESTER arnham RIGHTON & HOE Ege of Wilmington NN2 Wa Cuckmere River WORTHING Rottingdean A259 NN2 ENJOY CAPABILITYLITT BROWNLEHAM DESIGNEDPTON TAKE THE BUS TO DITCHLING BEACON GROUNDS AT PETWORTH HOUSE FOR A PICNIC EASTOURNE A25 GOSPORT N Newhaven 9 DISCOVER CUCKMERE HAVEN ANDS eaford OGNOR REGIS THE ICONIC SEVEN SISTERS PORTSMOUTH 0 1100 kkmm Seven Sisters East Dean ENGLISH CHANNE L Country Park eachy Head

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW 14 SOUTHDOWNS VIEW 2018 southdowns.gov.uk 2018 EVENTS SPRING/SUMMER (cont.)

13–24 JUNE 17 JUNE Needlework on Display Father’s Day den building and campfire cooking Parham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HS National Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJ parhaminsussex.co.uk nationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, Child £6, Under 5s 01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential, £12 FREE 19 JUNE 14 JUNE National Garden Scheme Day and tour Photography workshop – beginners National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TL National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TL nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on 01323 871961 General admission 01323 871961 Tickets: £25 19 JUNE 15 JUNE Saddlescombe and Newtimber orchid talk and walk Spring Beach Clean with Marine Conservation Society National Trust Saddlescombe Rd, near Brighton, West Sussex National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB BN45 7DE nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on nationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on 01323 423197 FREE ADMISSION 01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential Adults £5, Child 16 JUNE £3

South Downs Marathon 20 JUNE © Rebecca Saunders/SDNPA Queen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QE Dallowday 209events.com/uk-running-events/south-downs-trail-marathon- National Trust Monk’s House, Rodmell, near Lewes. BN7 3HF 12 August slindon-to-qe-park-petersfield nationaltrust.org.uk/monks-house/whats-on [email protected] Tickets: £25-40 01273 474760 General admission DOG FUN DAY 16 JUNE 21 JUNE Where: Woolbeding Parkland, near Midhurst Folk in the Forest Summer on Iping Common Join the National Trust and the South Downs National Park Authority for their annual Sustainability Centre, East Meon, GU32 1HR Iping Common (nearest postcode GU290PB) canine extravaganza where you can enter your own dog into a multitude of activities and sustainability-centre.org/Adults-courses.html sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/whats-on classes while learning more about being a responsible dog owner. 01730 823166 Tickets: Early bird online £11, £13 on door [email protected] 16 JUNE 0782 783 0891 (on day only) Tickets: Donation please Details: southdowns.gov.uk/dogfunday Big Camp at Black Down (SWT members free) National Trust Swan Barn Farm, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 2HU 21 JUNE nationaltrust.org.uk/swan-barn-farm/whats-on Photography workshop – advanced 13–24 JUNE 7 JULY Needlework on Display Heathland Superheroes Safari 01428 652359 Tickets: Booking essential Over16 £20, National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TL Parham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HS RSPB Pulborough Brooks Child £10 nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on parhaminsussex.co.uk southdowns.gov.uk/Heathlands-reunited 01323 871961 Tickets: £25 16–17 JUNE 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, £6 Child, Under 5s [email protected] Unusual Plants Fair 2018 23 & 24 JUNE FREE 01730 819320 FREE ADMISSION Gilbert White & The Oates Collection, Selborne, Hampshire Race to the King GU34 3JH Queen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QE 30 JUNE 7–8 JULY Hairy not scary at Pound Common 25th Annual Garden Weekend gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk racetotheking.com/ National Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RR Parham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HS 01420 511275 Tickets: Adults £7.50, Children Free 08454 865544 Tickets: From £39 nationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on parhaminsussex.co.uk 16–17 JUNE 23 JUNE 01730 816638 FREE ADMISSION 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, Child £6, Under 5s Sussex Wildlife Weekend Langham Monthly Brewery Tours FREE WWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PB Langham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BU 30 JUNE Screen printing workshop wwt.org.uk/arundel langhambrewery.co.uk 13–15 JULY National Trust Monk’s House, Rodmell, near Lewes. BN7 3HF Trailwalker 01903 881530 General admission 01798 860861 Tours cost £12 and typically take 2 hours nationaltrust.org.uk/monks-house/whats-on Queen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QE with generous samples. Food available. 17 JUNE 0344 249 1895 Tickets: £65 Booking essential oxfam.org.uk/trailwalker Seven Sisters Archaeology walk 24 JUNE 0300 200 1292 Tickets: From £40 National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB Homestead Dog Show 30 JUNE Meet the Cattle nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on Queen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QE 14–15 JULY Woolbeding, Pound Car Park Rail Gala 01323 423197 Tickets: £4 No website southdowns.gov.uk/Heathlands-reunited Amberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, West Sussex [email protected] FREE ADMISSION [email protected] BN18 9LT 01730 819320 FREE ADMISSION amberleymuseum.co.uk 01798 831370 Adults £12.50, Child £7 JULY 14–15 JULY Fairground Weekend and Mechanical Organ Gathering 05 JULY Hollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, Hants Summer Butterflies on Seaford Head GU30 7LP Seaford Head (nearest postcode BN25 4QJ) hollycombe.co.uk sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/whats-on/ 01428 724900 Tickets: Adults £16, Senior £14, Child [email protected] £12. Family tickets available 0782 783 0891 (on day only) Tickets: FREE event 15 JULY 7–8 JULY Photography Workshop for Adults- Marvellous 25th Annual Garden Weekend Macro Parham House & Gardens, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 4HS RSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2EL parhaminsussex.co.uk rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 01903 742 021 Tickets: Adults £11, Child £6, Under 5s 01798 875851 Tickets: £50 /£40 for RSPB members FREE 15 JULY 7 JULY Frog Firle farm open day

© Natasha Jeffries Rockpool ramble National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on 01323 423197 FREE ADMISSION MARWELL ZOO Throughout the year 01323 423197 Tickets: £4 17 JULY Where: Near Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JH 7 JULY Butterfly Safari National Meadows Day at Slindon RSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2EL Shuttle buses (fee applies) run from Eastleigh and Southampton train stations direct to National Trust Slindon Estate, West Sussex BN18 0RH rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks Marwell Zoo (end of March to beginning of September). nationaltrust.org.uk/slindon-estate/whats-on 01798 875851 Tickets: £20 /£16 RSPB members Details: As well as all their existing exhibits, Marwell has lots of events going on year 01245 814730 FREE ADMISSION 17 JULY round from their Explorers Trail around the zoo, Easter Egg trails and Meet the Easter 7 JULY Garden tour Bunny to Top Trumps challenges in the May half term holiday. Reptile Ramble National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TL RSPB Pulborough Brooks nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on During the summer holidays there is always something special going on around the zoo southdowns.gov.uk/Heathlands-reunited 01323 871961 General admission to keep you busy and keep the kids entertained. [email protected] marwell.org.uk/zoo 01730 819320 FREE ADMISSION

THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK southdowns.gov.uk SPRING/SUMMER 2018 15

4–5 AUGUST 18 AUGUST The Fabulous Raven Tor Living History Group Outdoor Theatre: Dr Doolittle Bignor Roman Villa, Pulborough RH20 1PH National Trust Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0LA bignorromanvilla.co.uk nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner/whats-on 01798 869259 Tickets: Adults £6, Groups >10 £5, 0344 2491895 Tickets: Booking essential Adults £16, Under 16 £3.50, Groups >10 £2.50 Child £8 4–5 AUGUST 18-27 AUGUST Georgian Fair MADhurst – Music, Arts & Drama Festival Gilbert White & The Oates Collection, Selborne, Hampshire Midhurst - Various times & locations GU34 3JH madhurst.co.uk Tickets: Box office from 1 July gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk 19 AUGUST 01420 511275 Tickets: Adults £8, Children £4 Seven Sisters Archaeology walk 4 AUGUST National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB

© Rebecca Saunders/SDNPA Outdoor Theatre: Pirates of Penzance nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on National Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield 01323 423197 £4 8-9 September Tickets: GU31 5QR 22 AUGUST SECRETS OF THE HEATH nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on Discover Drovers summer guided walk 0344 2491895 Tickets: Booking essential Adults £16, National Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RR Where: Petersfield Heath Child £8 nationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on Details: A weekend of horrible histories recreating the past uses and current wildlife of 9–12 AUGUST 01730 816638 Tickets: £2 our lowland heath. Meet characters from the Stone Age to present day rangers and learn Boomtown Fair 2018 25 AUGUST how their activities have created and maintained this rare and fascinating habitat. Mattingly Estate, Winchester SO21 1HW Live@Langhams All day mini beer and music festival boomtownfair.co.uk Tickets: £233.50 southdowns.gov.uk/events (MADHURST) 12 AUGUST Langham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BU Hollycombe Children’s Teddy Bears Outing langhambrewery.co.uk 01798 860861 20 JULY 21 & 22 JULY Hollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, Hants GU30 7LP FREE ADMISSION Devil’s Dyke wild food walk, talk and picnic Creepy Crawlies Weekend hollycombe.co.uk 26 AUGUST National Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJ Drusillas Park, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5QS 01428 724900 Tickets: Adults £16, Senior £14, Little Women nationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on drusillas.co.uk Child £12. Family tickets available. Gilbert White & The Oates Collections, Selborne, Hampshire 01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential £5 01323 874100 Tickets: See details online 12 AUGUST GU34 3JH gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk 20 JULY–3 SEPTEMBER 22 JULY Dog Fun Day at Woolbeding Parkland Summer Holiday Activities: SPACE! Seven Sisters Archaeology walk National Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RR 01420 511275 Tickets: See details online Winchester Science Centre SO21 1HZ National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on winchestersciencecentre.org nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on 01730 816638 FREE ADMISSION SEPTEMBER 01962 863791 FREE with General Admission tickets 01323 423197 Tickets: £4 17 AUGUST 31 AUGUST–2 SEPTEMBER 21 JULY–2 SEPT 22 JULY Saddlescombe Tudor style soap making & picnic in WWT Wildlife Rangers Activities Butterfly walk and talk orchard Ale at Amberley WWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PB National Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJ National Trust Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex BN1 8YJ Amberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Arundel, wwt.org.uk/arundel nationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on nationaltrust.org.uk/devils-dyke/whats-on West Sussex BN18 9LT amberleymuseum.co.uk 01903 881530 General admission 01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential £10 01273 857981 Tickets: Booking essential, £12 01798 831370 Tickets: Adult £12.50, Child £7 21 JULY–24 AUGUST 27–28 JULY & 28–29 JULY 17 AUGUST Summer search family trail Big Wild Sleepout A Teddy Bear’s picnic – Northwood 21 JULY–2 SEPTEMBER National Trust Alfriston Clergy House, East Sussex BN26 5TL RSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2EL National Trust Slindon Estate, West Sussex BN18 0RH Sherlock Holmes summer family trail nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house/whats-on rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks nationaltrust.org.uk/slindon-estate/whats-on National Trust Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0LA nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner/whats-on 01323 871961 General admission 01798 875851 Tickets: Adults £40, RSPB members £32, 1246 814730 Tickets: Booking essential, Adults FREE, Child £5 01962 771305 General admission + suggested donation £1 21 JULY–2 SEPTEMBER Child £20, RSPB members £16 4 SEPTEMBER Sherlock Holmes Summer family trail 28 JULY 18 & 19 AUGUST National Trust Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0LA Countryside crafts day at Swan Barn Farm South Downs Show Bringing Heathland Home nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner/whats-on National Trust Swan Barn Farm, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 2HU Queen Elizabeth Country Park, PO8 0QE Liss Forest, car park – Liss, Hampshire 01962 771305 General admission + suggested donation £1 nationaltrust.org.uk/swan-barn-farm/whats-on southdownsshow.co.uk southdowns.gov.uk/Heathlands-reunited [email protected] 01428 652359 FREE ADMISSION 07918 941398 Tickets: From £3.50 21 JULY–2 SEPTEMBER 01730 819320 FREE ADMISSION Summer Family Trail 31 JULY 18 AUGUST National Trust Uppark House & Garden, South Harting, Petersfield Bioblitz Night-time Safari- Brilliant Bats and Magnificent 8 SEPTEMBER GU31 5QR Lynchmere, Haslemere Moths Findon Sheep Fair and Village Festival nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden/whats-on southdowns.gov.uk/Heathlands-reunited RSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2EL Nepcote Green, Nepcote Lane, Findon, BN14 0SD 01730 825415 General admission + £1 per trail [email protected] rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks findonsheepfair.co.uk 01903264161 £5.00 for Car Park 01730 819320 FREE ADMISSION 01798 875851 Tickets: Adults £20, RSPB members £16, Tickets: 21 JULY–2 SEPTEMBER Child 1/2 price £10/£8 WWT Wildlife Rangers Activities 8–9 SEPTEMBER WWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PB AUGUST 18 AUGUST Secrets of the Heath wwt.org.uk/arundel Picnic in the Park at Woolbeding Parkland Petersfield Heath National Trust Woolbeding Countryside, West Sussex GU29 9RR southdowns.gov.uk/Heathlands-reunited 01903 881530 General admission 1 AUGUST Spider-Man nationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding-countryside/whats-on [email protected] Drusillas Park, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5QS 01730 816638 Tickets: Donations only 01730 819320 FREE ADMISSION DISCOVER NATIONAL drusillas.co.uk 01323 874100 Tickets: See details online PARKS WEEKS 21 JULY–2 SEPTEMBER (see page 19) WWT Wildlife Rangers Activities WWT Arundel Wetland Centre BN18 9PB 22 JULY wwt.org.uk/arundel Wild Chalk Family Fun Day 01903 881530 General admission East Brighton Park, Nr Sheepcote Park, Brighton southdowns.gov.uk/events 1–31 AUGUST Wild – Fantastic Floral Fun FREE ADMISSION Marwell Zoo, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JH 25 JULY marwell.org.uk/zoo/ Discover National Parks – Crawley 01962 777407 Queens Park, Crawley RH10 1HA 3 AUGUST southdowns.gov.uk/events Young Photographers Workshop (for 8-14 year olds) FREE RSPB Pulborough Brooks RH20 2EL 26 JULY rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks

Discover National Parks – Southsea 01798 875851 Tickets: Child £15, RSPB members £12 Warren © SDNPA/Laura Southsea Seafront, Clarence Esplanade, Portsmouth PO4 9RG 3 AUGUST 22-28 July southdowns.gov.uk/events Rockpool ramble FREE National Trust Birling Gap, East Sussex BN20 0AB nationaltrust.org.uk/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters/whats-on DISCOVER NATIONAL PARKS WEEK 27 JULY Discover National Parks – Worthing 01323 423197 Donations only Details: Our annual celebration of everything that is unique and wonderful about the Corner Montague Place / Montague St, Worthing BN11 South Downs National Park. Keep an eye on our website for details of free family activities southdowns.gov.uk/events taking place across the South Downs during the first week of the school summer holidays. FREE southdowns.gov.uk

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW 16 SOUTHDOWNS VIEW 2018 southdowns.gov.uk

LAND IN OD SO O U TH W E D H O T W F

N O

S C

I O E

L T A

WOODLAND THE MO IS ST RK W PA O L O A D N E D O I I © SDNPA WONDERS T N A

Did you know that the South Downs National Park G

N L

W has more woodland than any of the other National N

O D

Parks in England and Wales? &

W T

O L

E S With around 380km2 our trees pressures to lack of management S cover an area bigger than the Isle of – our woodlands are under threat. Wight. The best way to protect the future The different geology and of our trees for future generations landscapes in the National Park is to make sure that our woods are create conditions suitable for managed sustainably. different woodlands, including yew woods, ‘hanging’ beech woods, The South Downs National and traditional coppice woodland. Park Authority is working Even when you’re up high on open in partnership with the downland you can’t escape views of Woodland Trust to offer a woodland below – look out for small free advisory service for woods, farmland copses and some woodland owners within of the largest continuous woodland the National Park. in the south east. Our site visits include: Almost half of the woodland in the Looking at the site history and South Downs is Ancient Woodland mapping which, because of their age, have richly diverse trees and wildlife. Discovering how the wood These woods were historically contributes to the South managed as coppice or timber to Downs Landscape build ships and houses. Over many A basic site survey centuries a woodland culture has Guidance on managing built up around the woods and they woodland for wildlife. are still an important part of the Advice on approaching economy today, as well as being contractors and consultants. great places to relax, walk and try a little ‘forest bathing’. Remember that Starting to write a woods here may be privately owned, management plan and or important habitat, so please enjoy securing grant funding. them from public rights of way such Asking if there is a market for as footpaths and bridleways. timber from your wood in the area? Woodlands under Book a site visit with threat bob.epsom@southdowns. From climate change to pests gov.uk and diseases, and development Heasman © SDNPA/Nick

THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK southdowns.gov.uk SPRING/SUMMER 2018 17

GREAT WOODS For ‘hanging’ woods: TO VISIT IN THE in Old English ‘Hangra’ means a steeply wooded slope so SOUTH DOWNS it’s not surprising that the NATIONAL PARK Hangers Way, a 21 mile walking route starting near Alton in Hampshire, follows a For woodland trails

at Alice Holt Forest © SDNPA in Hampshire and Great woods to Friston Forest in East © SDNPA/Charlie Hellewell Sussex. Also try Queen visit in the South Elizabeth Country Downs National Park run by Hampshire County Council near Park For a wilder wood: Petersfield. ‘The Mens’, is a large wild area of ancient woodland owned by the Sussex Wildlife © Val Carver Trust between Petworth and Wisborough Green, has an untamed feel, its For some spooky unusual name comes from woodland magic: the Anglo-Saxon word ‘ge- explore the ancient gnarled mænnes’ meaning common yews of Kingley Vale – land. thought to be at least 500 years old and among the oldest living things in Britain. REMEMBER TO ‘TAKE THE LEAD’ IN For wild bluebells and daffodils: THE WOODS West Deans Woods, another nature reserve run by Sussex Wildlife Use the Woodland Trust Trust, have been coppiced for hundreds of years allowing carpets of – Visit Woods Website SEE THE BACK yellow wild daffodil to form and later in the season the iconic bluebells. woodlandtrust.org.uk/ PAGE FOR MORE visiting-woods INFORMATION

WOODLAND WILDLIFE TO SPOT BUTTERFLIES BIRDSONG BATS FLORA

See silver washed fritillary or Get up early to experience The Daubenton’s bat is one of Ancient woodland is alive with white admiral feeding in the bird song at its best in spring. many bats that can be found in colour in the spring – bluebell, warm, bright woodland rides. Join a guided woodland the south of England, commonly wood anemone (below), Look out for the purple emperor dawn chorus walk in April / occupying wooded river valleys primrose, wild garlic and early butterfly (below) searching for May to help identify what you with water present; a habitat purple orchid all bloom early a mate high in the canopy of are hearing. Try one at RSPB that provides space to roost to catch the sun before the tree ash or oak. You may spot them Pulborough Brooks where you and forage. Try joining a Night- foliage emerges leaving them in during July at Alice Holt Forest might be lucky enough to catch time Safari to spot bats and shade. Try a guided bluebell walk in Hampshire or West Dean a nightingale’s song among the other nocturnal wildlife at RSPB at National Trust Slindon Estate. Woods in Sussex. more usual species. Pulborough Brooks. © Paul Pearson © Paul © SDNPA © David Kind Hellewell © SDNPA/Charlie

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW 18 SOUTHDOWNS VIEW 2018 southdowns.gov.uk HEALTH WALKS The news has recently been full of the health benefits of being outdoors and getting close to nature. Whether it’s the act of getting physical, for people who want to improve their by walking or cycling or the sense of health and fitness by increasing their mental wellbeing that comes from physical activity levels. Across the being in forests or green open spaces, South Downs, many local authorities there is no doubt that we can be offer a programme of health walks happier and healthier by making the run by experienced volunteer walk most of the great outdoors… leaders. Walks tend to last around Now that the days are longer, it’s one and a half hours and are usually the perfect time to get your ‘health graded by length and difficulty. No fix’ in the beautiful countryside of the special equipment is required – just South Downs. some suitable footwear. Why not make If you’re new to walking there are discovering more of the South Downs plenty of opportunities to join other part of your fitness challenge this year? beginners right across the National To find out more visit Park by taking part in a Health Walk. and walkingforhealth.org.uk James © SDNPA/Nigel By definition, health walks are designed search for walks in your area.

from the historic village of Bramber offer a different experience. Seven routes in four locations are available to download from our website southdowns.gov. uk/miles-without-stiles and, supported by funding from Gatwick Airport, we are now busy working on creating more Miles without Stiles opportunities by installing new gates, upgrading poor surfaces and even replacing tricky steps with a gentle ramp. The overall network of rights of way (3,330km in total) is managed by local highways authorities and the National Park © SDNPA/Anne-Katrin Purkiss © SDNPA/Anne-Katrin Authority is pleased to add value to their work by promoting and surface conditions and gradients. supporting greater access for all Long-distance views from our routes opportunities. MILES WITHOUT at Mill Hill, Seaford Head and Seven Sisters are truly stunning, southdowns.gov.uk/miles- STILES while the gentle riverside paths without-stiles The rights of way network in the National Park extends across a farmed landscape and gates and stiles are often required by farmers for stock control. In an ideal world, all footpaths would be free from stiles and, for some people, all hills would be flat.

But then the Downs wouldn’t be suitable for people with limited the Downs and of course we don’t mobility. Wheelchair users, families wish to iron out our hills. However, with pushchairs and less agile many of us struggle with stiles and walkers can choose from a list look for walks that are completely of routes designed to meet their stile free. Miles without Stiles needs. Paths are generally graded are routes across the National Park into three categories based on © SDNPA

THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK southdowns.gov.uk SPRING/SUMMER 2018 19

HIT THE TRAIL – EXPLORE THE TAKE A HIKE MEON VALLEY 2 JUNE Discover more about the multi- user Meon Valley Trail and some of the interesting places to visit along the route. A FREE family event hosted by Hampshire County Council takes place on Saturday 2 June (10:00–15:00). A range of activities organised by local groups and nearby parishes will be on offer at various locations throughout the day. Details: southdowns.gov.

We are spoiled for choice in terms of walking as the Centurion Way in West Sussex or the Meon Valley Trail routes in the South Downs National Park. in Hampshire which have been converted to multi-user paths. In fact we have over 3,300 km of Visit southdowns.gov.uk/ Walk part or all of the winding footpath, bridleways and byways – walking. Leaflets are also available 64 mile Serpent Trail through the more than any other National Park from Information Points. stunning heathland of the Wealden in the UK. The variety is enormous If you prefer to go digital then Greensand. Take part in a Meet the whether you are out for a quick dog try our FREE range of walking Cattle day with Heathlands Reunited walk or planning a pub lunch at the trails on the ViewRanger app. or a guided walk on Iping Common half way point of a hike there will be Visit southdowns.gov.uk/ with the Sussex Wildlife Trust. The a route that’s right for you. viewranger for details. National Trust also offer many There are a range of interesting Apart from sections of the South guided walks around their sites. walks for all abilities to download Downs Way to choose from Check the Events pages for details of © SDNPA and print for free on our website. there are also old railway lines such all these activities. ‘DISCOVER NATIONAL PARKS’ WEEK 22–28 JULY National Parks all over the country will be laying on special events during the ‘Discover National Parks’ week at the beginning of the school holidays and the South Downs is no exception. During the following week our rangers will be taking a wildlife roadshow to town centres around the National Park FREE with fun activities for families to take part FAMILY in, and encouraging them to sign up EVENTS to coming into the National Park a few days later to meet up with our rangers for a free afternoon of adventure, getting to know the real wildlife to be found in the South Downs.

© SDNPA Family Wildlife Activities (11:00–15:00) The week will launch with a brand new event: Wednesday 25 July: Crawley – Queens Square Wild Chalk Free Family Fun Day (11:00–17:00) Thursday 26 July: Southsea Seafront – next to the Canoe Lake Sunday 22 July: East Brighton Park – beside Sheepcote Valley Friday 27 July: Worthing – Montague Place This will celebrate the wildlife, history and amazing water filtering Don’t forget that at each of these events you can sign up to come on properties of our chalk downland with storytelling beside a shepherds hut, further free adventures in the National Park a few days later. birds of prey demonstrations, ‘meet the sheep’, badge and sash making, giant jigsaws, butterfly spotting, guided walks – and much more. Details: southdowns.gov.uk/events

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW 20 SOUTHDOWNS VIEW 2018 southdowns.gov.uk

and charismatic mammals, birds, first hand at Wild Explorers! Home reptiles, amphibians, fish and to white rhino, Grevy’s zebra and insects. Powered by Marwell’s scimitar-horned oryx, you’ll enjoy MARWELL ZOO animal waste, the new exhibit will uninterrupted views of the animals, significantly reduce their carbon both near and far, from the raised A visit to Marwell Zoo, near Winchester, is a chance footprint. observation boardwalk. It’s the to get close to the wonders of the natural world. Highlights perfect spot for wildlife photography. What’s more, spend time with Marwell Zoo also offers guests From ring-tailed lemurs to majestic programmes, and welcome more Marwell’s playful primates at ‘Lemur a programme of fascinating daily giraffes, endangered tigers to white than half a million visitors each year rhinos, curious meerkats to pygmy to the zoological park. Loop’, a new walkthrough exhibit – talks and feeds on a range of animal hippos – their 140-acre park is now open. Explore the environment species throughout the day including home to an incredible range of New for 2018 of different types of lemur whilst meerkats, penguins and giraffes. exotic and endangered species, in Marwell’s biggest ever exhibit, a learning about the evolution of Plus, take part in Marwell’s popular beautiful, landscaped surroundings new Tropical House, will be opening the species. Their knowledgeable Explorers, Trail collecting stamps staff are on hand to answer and by exploring Marwell Zoo you’ll at Easter 2018. This marks the of your favourite animals! With five second phase of a £17m investment any questions! With a beautiful play a big part in helping to save adventure playgrounds, a free road them. programme for the zoo over the landscaped setting, both indoors and train and rail train, there’s plenty As a global conservation next ten years, creating improved out, the new lemur exhibit promises charity, their mission is to conserve habitats for animals and more a truly immersive experience. to occupy your little ones while you biodiversity and other natural immersive experiences for guests. As well as Lemur Loop, you can relax and soak up the surroundings. resources, both locally and The £8m exhibit will span two levels experience the African wilderness marwell.org.uk/zoo internationally – but they rely on the offering fantastic vantage points support of thousands to bring it to across a lush, tropical canopy and life! With an aim to connect people the opportunity to experience the with nature and inspire care for the captivating life of the forest floor. COMPETITION TIME natural world, they engage with Guests will be free to share the We’re giving readers more than 40,000 children through habitat and enjoy uninterrupted, of South Downs View their conservation educational close-up views of new, colourful the chance to win a family ticket to Marwell Zoo for two adults and two children! The ticket is valid for 12 months, giving one lucky winner the flexibility of choosing when to visit. Simply go to marwell.org.uk/ southdowns and answer the following Marquick © Karen question by 31 August 2018. How many acres is Marwell Zoo? A) 120 B) 140 C) 160 The winner will be contacted by email by 7 September 2018, good luck! © Jason Brown

THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK southdowns.gov.uk SPRING/SUMMER 2018 21

Ridgeview Wine Plumpton Wine DRINK LOCAL Estate Estate In other editions of South Downs View we have Ditchling Common, East Sussex plumpton.ac.uk ridgeview.co.uk Award winning still and featured the enormous variety of food available in Second generation family winery sparkling wines such as Dean and around the National Park... producing world class wine from Brut NV, produced on site by their “ridge with a view”. aspiring young vine growers and winemakers. ...In this edition we would like to produced by award winning, local Star product: Bloomsbury NV highlight the growing diversity of vineyards. Sparkling, Official wine served Based at Plumpton College local beverage producers in the The vineyards owe some of their for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee the UK’s centre for excellence success to the chalky soils and in wine – offering first class region. It’s not just still and sparkling Tour and tasting dates available fine climate providing a “unique” education, training and research. wine but also locally brewed real ale to book. and cider – not to mention mineral flavour of the South Downs”. In fact, water sourced here too. grapes have been growing in this area, which is very similar to the Wine Champagne region in France, since Wine may not be something that Roman times. you immediately associate with the To find more local drink and food South Downs but some of England’s producers visit southdownsfood. finest sparkling and white wines are org Rathfinny Upperton Wine Estate Vineyard Near Alfriston, East Sussex Tillington West Sussex rathfinnyestate.com uppertonvineyards.co.uk At its RIBA nominated, state- Family run vineyard dedicated of-the-art Winery, Rathfinny to making award winning established in 2010 and sparkling English wine. plans to become a world class Star product: Tenebris their producer of vintage sparkling 100% pinot sparkling wine has wine. proved to be incredibly popular. Tour and tasting dates available Tour and tasting from May to Langham Brewery June to October. September. Lodsworth, West Sussex langhambrewery.co.uk Independent award-winning steam powered micro-brewery producing secondary cask conditioned real ale from an 18th century granary barn in West Sussex. Finest quality ingredients – water sourced from a local aquifer; floor malted barley from one of the 2 remaining floor maltsters in the UK and South Downs South Downs flavoursome leaf hops produce innovative, distinctive and flavoursome real ale. Best-selling beers are Hip Hop and Arapaho... now joined Cider Natural Mineral by South Downs Traditional Best Bitter. Look out for it at your Wilmington, East Sussex Water local real ale supplier. southdownscider.co.uk southdownswater.co.uk Tour and tasting dates available year round Small cider maker producing Naturally wholesome without a variety of delicious still and any treatment, South Downs sparkling ciders with 95% of Natural Mineral Water is drawn ingredients coming from within from an artesian well 420ft Long Man 10 miles of Wilmington. Two best below ground. Filtered through sellers are the Medium – a cloudy the chalk it is naturally high Brewery still cider and Silver Lining – a in calcium and low in sodium cloudy sparkling cider both at Litlington, East Sussex and then bottled at source near 4.5% ABV. Elderflower Cider is also Kingley Vale, West Sussex in the longmanbrewery.com popular using elderflower from the South Downs National Park. The multi award-winning Long South Downs. Man Brewery uses water from its own borehole in the chalk below the farm and grows its own barley. Old Man won World’s Best Dark Mild Beer at the 2017 World Beer awards. NATURAL MINERAL WATER

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW 22 SOUTHDOWNS VIEW 2018 southdowns.gov.uk

NATIONAL PARK Haller © SDNPA/Mischa ENTRY SIGNS FUNDING FOR COMMUNITY Over the eight years since the South Downs was PROJECTS designated we’ve often been asked why there What do a wooden bridge over a chalk stream, an attempt are no signs telling people that they’ve arrived in to make authentic Roman shoes, a Hilaire Belloc novel, the National Park. and a community shop have in common? They’re all part of projects supported by the South Downs National Park But what would they look to the National Park and 600km Authority’s Sustainable Community Fund (SCF). like? of boundary. So, we have selected Do you have a project in the National Park? Do you need funding? Will Before we could consider any 19 locations at, or near, the South your project bring social, environmental, economic or cultural benefits to signage we first needed to develop Downs’ borders – all carefully your community? If so, you should definitely call the SCF team. an identity for the South Downs. selected as places in which there is a Now this is in place we will be The National Park Authority’s Sustainable Communities Fund issues real sense of arrival in the National piloting bespoke signage this grants from £250 to £10,000 and up to 50% of project costs. Park. Each sign’s size and design will summer to give people a sense that be tailored to fit with that particular Find out more and how to apply at they are arriving in the UK’s newest southdowns.gov.uk/sustainable-communities-fund National Park and influence positive location. behaviour towards our protected We’re looking forward to joining landscape. all 14 other UK National Parks in Our second challenge is that proudly signalling our presence to there are over 2,000 entrances/exits visitors and people who live here. Protecting the beauty of the South Downs

Join us and become a member of the South Downs Society a charity dedicated to the protection and conservation COLUMBIA PARTNERSHIP of the South Downs The UK’s 15 National Parks are working together with Columbia Sportswear making Columbia the Official Outfitter to the National . Over 200 organised walks & strolls each year Park rangers and staff – the people who protect and promote some of . Activities & events Britain’s best-loved landscapes. . Help us to campaign to preserve the landscape Demonstrating huge commitment to the National Parks, Columbia is for future generations outfitting upwards of 2,000 National Park staff including 300 rangers, . Help us improve access to the Downs providing high quality clothing that's "tested tough"™ and designed to keep them warm, dry, cool and protected in Britain's toughest conditions. South Downs National Park Chief Executive, Trevor Beattie said: “The partnership between Columbia and the UK’s National Parks is a significant undertaking. Columbia Sportswear has obviously put a great deal of thought into the diverse and high quality range of gear they are Protecting the beauty of the Downs providing to keep our rangers and staff protected from the worst the For more details, please visit our website weather can throw at them”. www.southdownssociety.org.uk or telephone 01798 875073 South Downs Society, 2 Swan Court, Station Road, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 1RL

THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK southdowns.gov.uk SPRING/SUMMER 2018 23

RANGER DIARY OWNS UTH D A SO GER D E OF K RAN AY IN THE LIF PAR NAL NATIO © SDNPA/Charlotte Wray © SDNPA/Charlotte © Neil Hulme © John Walton

Surveying 1km squares Practical conservation Clearing nettles at a 8:00 as part of the South 9:30 tasks with our volunteers, 14:00 local chalk grassland Downs Farmland Bird Initiative. such as cutting back hawthorn and site, so we’ll carry out a butterfly These help to track the population blackthorn on chalk grassland, survey too. The results go to Butterfly trends of important farmland birds coppicing woodland to open up Conservation, but any data also like yellowhammer and skylark and clearings for wildlife and improving helps us and the landowner gauge are best done before 9am. accessibility on the South Downs the recovery of this threatened © SDNPA Way. habitat.

Charlotte Wray, Assistant Ranger, Western Downs

No two days are the

same, just as no two © SDNPA © SDNPA © SDNPA/ Anne-Katrin Purkiss rangers are the same Back to the yard with A good time to catch Time to check one – the diversity of the 15:30 our volunteers where 16:30 up on emails and start 17:00 of our South Downs job keeps us all on our we unload and carry out tool and planning for tomorrow when we’re geocaches on the way home – it’s toes and means we vehicle maintenance. If we have attending an event with the Country been reported missing but after a time we’ll make some barn owl Trust. We’ll be engaging with school short hunt we’ve found it nearby and use a huge number of boxes for local farmers. We monitor children of all ages, teaching them hidden it again, ready for the next different skills. these in the spring with the Hawk about the National Park and the intrepid explorer to find! Conservancy Trust. ecology of barn owls and water voles.

Develop the skills that Last summer we piloted three employers increasingly value sessions in the Western Downs with including confidence, leadership Mountbatten School, a Hampshire and independence provider of NCS. These sessions Link to social action projects aimed to encourage more young Motivate young people people to volunteer within the to long term engagement in National Park. Young people from volunteering across the area participated in © SDNPA NCS achieves this through a 4 river bank conservation on the week programme where young River Rother including removing NATIONAL CITIZEN SERVICE people work in groups of 12–15 to the invasive Himalayan Balsam, undertake three strands: conducting river fly monitoring Connecting young people with nature is a key Adventure – a week’s experiments and learning about aim for the South Downs National Park. residential in an activity centre our water vole reintroduction trying out new activities and programme. This summer we will Along with all other English The National Citizen Service teambuilding be extending the opportunities into National Parks, the South Downs (NCS) was established by the Skills – a week’s residential West Sussex in a collaboration with has a target to double the number Government and is now in its 5th developing life skills to boost CV West Sussex County Council NCS of young people experiencing a year. The programme aims to: or UCAS personal statement team. National Park as part of National Engage 15–17 year olds Social action – Plan, fundraise For more information and to get Citizen Service (NCS). So what is across the UK and make a difference over 5 involved ‘say yes to NCS’ at this all about? days of activity www.ncsyes.co.uk.

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW TAKE THE LEAD

SIGN UP TO THE SOUTH DOWNS E-NEWSLETTER AND WIN PRIZES! Keep up to date with the latest Lots of you visit the South Downs National Park news and events from the South Downs National Park. because it is a great place to walk your dog. There’s Every month you’ll have the over 3,000 km of rights of way, bridleways and paths chance to win a prize to help for them to explore within the boundaries of a National Park, but please you enjoy the National Park even more – from days out to remember this is a farmed landscape with livestock and wildlife that can outdoor kit. be injured or disturbed. Find out more and sign up at southdowns.gov.uk/ Top tips for being a Responsible Dog Owner: newsletter Put your dog on a lead near livestock. This is so important when walking in fields where sheep 1 or cattle are present. What may look like playful chasing by your dog could result in pregnant ewes aborting their young through fright. It’s worth remembering that farmers have the right to shoot any dog which may be harming their livestock on their land. Better to be safe than sorry so always Take the Lead. Protect ground nesting birds. Bounding around the heather may be great fun for your dog but 2 between March and October increasingly rare ground nesting birds such as the nightjar, woodlark or Dartford warbler are trying to rear their young. Disturbance could mean the loss of that year’s brood. Be To keep up-to-date with news, vigilant and always stick to the paths. events and competitions, Bag and Bin your dog poo. With all the joys of owning a dog comes the messy part of picking follow us on... 3 up their poo. Responsible dog owners do it because they know the risks if they don’t. Bacteria /SDNPA in dog poo is harmful to animals and humans alike So, when you’re dog walking in the South Downs, and no-one likes to tread in dog poo – it can ruin join your fellow responsible dog walkers and Take @SDNPA a country walk, so always bag it and bin it – any the Lead. @Ranger_sdnpa . Please don’t leave it behind. public bin will do Visit southdowns.gov.uk/take-the-lead to Know where your dog is. Dogs often watch and share our Take the Lead videos. Use the southdownsNP 4 dash off to explore interesting smells and hashtag #takethelead on social media. We love can end up lost, injured or disturbing wildlife. to see photos of you enjoying the South Downs Dogs can also escape from gardens and cause havoc to livestock. Keep your dog safe – National Park with your dog. keep it under close control and keep it Twitter @sdnpa Contacts Us secure when at home. Also make sure they are microchipped so that you can be reunited if they get Facebook /SDNPA South Downs National Park lost. Instagram @southdownsnp Authority Stick to the path. The National Park is South Downs Centre made up of beautiful farmland and important North Street 5 © Rebecca Saunders/SDNPA wildlife habitats, please stick to the path and don’t Midhurst wander across private land. West Sussex Keep Safe: Do not enter military GU29 9DH 6 training areas when the red flags are 01730 814810 flying. Ministry of Defence land is usually clearly [email protected]. marked and at certain times can be off limits. uk southdowns.gov.uk