Stargazing South Downs Is Back

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SOUTHDOWNS VIEWAUTUMN/WINTER 2019

Events Guide PAGE 10 Stargazing Discover the South Downs heaths of the is back South Downs PAGE 4 PAGE 15 SOUTH DOWNS DARK SKIES FESTIVAL ...... 4

HOW THE LOCAL PLAN WILL HELP DARK SKIES IN THE SOUTH DOWNS ...... 5

PLAN YOUR BEE-FRIENDLY GARDEN ...... 6 SIMPLE WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR WATER ...... 7 The South WHERE WILL YOUR ADVENTURE TAKE YOU...... 8 Downs Centre EVENTS GUIDE ...... 10

DON’T LET THE DARKER MONTHS GET YOU DOWN ...... 13 Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 9DH CHERRIES, GHOSTS AND VILLAGE FETES ...... 14 01730 814810 DISCOVER THE HEATHS OF THE SOUTH DOWNS ...... 15 Home of the National Park Authority, a community hub, visitor information centre and exhibition about the National Park. AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 AUTUMN/WINTER Front cover photograph © oversnap/istockphoto Opening Hours This magazine is printed on 90% FSC® recycled paper. This FSC® paper is sourced from FSC® certiﬁed mills and is from sustainable sources. Monday to Thursday: 09:00–17:00 Please Friday: 09:00–16:30 recycle me after use CONTENTS Saturday & Bank Holidays: (Easter to end of October only) 09:00–13:00

INFORMATION POINTS Aldershot Visitor Information Eastbourne Tourist Information Seaford Tourist Information Centre Centre Centre visit-hampshire.co.uk visiteastbourne.com seafordtown.co.uk 01252 320968 01323 415415 Worthing Visitor Information Arundel Visitor Information Haslemere Visitor Information Centre Point Centre discoverworthing.uk arundel.org.uk haslemere.com/vic 01903 221066 Bognor Regis Visitor 01428 645425 Winchester City Mill and Shop Information Point Horsham Visitor Information visitwinchester.co.uk/winchester- sussexbythesea.com Centre city-mill-shop Brighton Tourist Information visithorsham.co.uk 01962 870057 01403 597474 Point Winchester Tourist Information visitbrighton.com Lewes Tourist Information Centre 01273 290337 Centre visitwinchester.co.uk Burgess Hill Tourist Information staylewes.org 01962 840500 Centre 01273 483448 burgesshill.gov.uk/leisuretourism Littlehampton Tourist 01444 238202 Information Centre Keep up to date with all South sussexbythesea.com Chichester Tourist Information Downs news by signing up to our Centre Petersﬁeld Town Visitor Centre monthly newsletter – southdowns. visitchichester.org visitpetersﬁeld.com gov.uk/join-the-newsletter. 01243 950412 01730 268829

2 SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 Welcome to the South Downs National Park With the nights drawing in and temperatures dropping it can be tempting to stay indoors and curl up on the sofa but don’t be put off, the South Downs National Park has so much to offer during the colder months. for some inspiration of the many attractions, nature Fancy gazing up at the Milky Way, or brushing reserves and countryside sites you can visit. up on your constellation knowledge? Get some extra layers on and get out to one of the dark sky To keep up to date with all the news of the discovery sites to ﬁnd out why the South Downs South Downs National Park sign up for our monthly National Park has International Dark Sky Reserve enewsletter at southdowns.gov.uk/join-the- status. Or come to one of the many events taking newsletter. Remember to share your experiences place during the South Downs Dark Skies Festival – of this beautiful place by sharing your photos with us see page 4 for more details. on social media and tagging #southdowns. Enjoy! Nothing is better for shaking off the winter blues than getting some fresh air. On page 13 read about why getting closer to nature can really boost your mood during the darker months. Why not get out to see the stunning purples of the South Downs heaths in bloom this September – you’ll ﬁnd a map of these Rebecca Saunders sites on page 15. Or take a look at the centre map Editor

COME CELEBRATE COMPETITION OUR 10TH TIME! Win a powder pass jacket from ANNIVERSARY Columbia worth £100! Simply 2020 is a very special answer this question:

year for the South Q: In what year did the Downs National Park. South Downs National Park become an International t was 10 years ago that a vision Dark Sky Reserve? became a reality. After years of passionate campaigning, England’s Visit southdowns.gov.uk/ newest National Park was born, columbiacomp to submit your answer designating 1600km2 of special and be entered into the draw for this Ilandscape with its breathtaking views, amazing prize. unique heritage and hidden gems for the beneﬁt of the nation. We will be marking this special year in lots of different ways so please keep an eye on our website or even better sign up to our monthly enewsletter at southdowns.gov.uk/join-the- newsletter. SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 3 SOUTH DOWNS DARK SKIES FESTIVAL 7–23 FEBRUARY 2020

Come and celebrate all things starry and dark!

Running from Friday 7 February to glorious dark night skies we enjoy in Sunday 23 February our annual South the South Downs and want to hold Downs Dark Skies Festival includes talks, an event, or contribute a piece for our activities and star parties across the website please get in touch with us at length and breadth of the South Downs. [email protected]

©Anne-Katrin Purkiss We can help you plan it and help Please join in the fun! promote it. Get creative with our dark skies colouring wall As well as events and activities we will For full details of all events be inviting guest bloggers, scientists taking place during the festival visit and naturalists to post stories and southdowns.gov.uk/darkskies. experiences on our website and social media, so if you would like to be part Dates for your of our two week celebration of the diary The National Park’s popular ‘Stargazing South Downs’ event will be on tour again during the festival fortnight with indoor planetarium shows, talks on nocturnal wildlife, family activities, astronaut selfie booth and the opportunity to go outdoors and stargaze with the experts if the night is clear, there will be something for all ages. ©Anne-Katrin Purkiss The events will all run from 4.00pm until 8.00pm at the following locations: Dress up in the astronaut selfie-booth • Saturday 8 February 2020 at Midhurst Rother College • Tuesday 18 February 2020 at Petersfield Festival Hall • Thursday 20 February 2020 at Purkiss Anne-Katrin © Lewes Town Hall Learn about nocturnal wildlife © Anne-Katrin Purkiss 4 SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 How the Local Plan will help dark skies in the South Downs In 2016 the South Downs National Park development does not harm became an International Dark Sky the quality of dark night Reserve (IDSR). skies. It also encourages the With only 13 of these reserves in the enhancement of the dark night world, safeguarding the quality of the skies of the National Park, for the dark night skies in the South Downs is of benefit of people and wildlife. It strategic importance. It is quite a challenge seeks to do this by ensuring that LOCAL PLAN with 2.2 million people living within 10km proposed lighting is necessary SOUTH DOWNS –33) of the National Park. and appropriate, and by reducing ADOPTED 2 JULY 2019 (2014 Our new landscape and sustainability the unnecessary light pollution that focussed South Downs Local Plan is often a result of poor design, was adopted in July 2019 and will be a all in order to minimise the overall valuable tool not only in setting out how impact of light. the National Park Authority will manage The Local Plan sets out how development over the next 15 years but development will be permitted also specifically in helping to protect our where it conserves and enhances the dark night skies. intrinsic quality of dark night skies across To see the full Local Plan visit: The purpose of strategic policy the entire National Park and the integrity of southdowns.gov.uk/SDLocalPlan SD8 in the Local Plan is to ensure that the dark sky core.

How to embrace the • Take some snacks and a hot drink • Take a blanket or mat to lie on darkness • Take a compass or use the one on • Wrap up warm your smart phone Here are some top tips to help you make • Download a star gazing app to help Lookout for the Orionids the most of stargazing in the South you identify constellations and stars meteor shower which Downs: • Allow time for your eyes to adjust peaks on the night between • Check the phase of the moon to – this takes around 20 minutes so 21–22 October. plan your trip – stargazing is best turn off any lights, torches and put before a full moon your mobile phone away

1 Winchester Science 6 Iping Common WHERE TO FIND Centre & Planetarium 7 Bignor Hill 2 Old Winchester Hill THE TEN DARK SKY 8 Devil’s Dyke 3 Butser Hill 9 Ditchling Beacon DISCOVERY SITES IN 4 Buriton 10 Birling Gap THE SOUTH DOWNS 5 Harting Down

The map below shows the dark skies quality across the National Park. The Liphook darker the colour, the better the quality 1 of the night sky. Dark Sky Discovery Sites have free parking and open access Winchester Petersfield Liss to great stargazing sites. 2 6 3 4 Midhurst 5 7 9 8 Lewes

South Downs Worthing Eastbourne Planetarium, Brighton Chichester 10

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 5 6 area. of wildflowerstosupportpollinatorsinyour community suchasplantingtherighttype also doyourbitingarden orlocal southdownstrust.org.uk the BeeLinescampaignbyvisiting the SouthDownsyoucandonateto To helpthebeesandbutterfliesin How you canhelp pollinators andallowthemtothrive. will protect beesandotherimportant to helprestore flower-rich habitatsthat Park Trust isbiddingtoraise£75,000 National Park.TheSouthDowns haven forpollinatorsintheSouthDowns of beesintheSouthEastandcreate a been launchedtohelpreverse the decline on thedeclineandinneedofoursupport. However thesekeypollinatingspeciesare attracts amultitudeofbeesandbutterflies. with itsstunningarrayofwildflowers The iconicSouthDownschalkgrassland GARDEN -FRIENDLY YOUR PLAN spring… planning yourpollinatorfriendlygarden forthe wildflowers andthebuzzofbees,sowhynotget Nothing liftsthespiritlikeagarden fullofbeautiful Bumblebee garden andelsewhere… Downs NationalParkbuthere are afewyoucankeepaneyeoutforinyour There are hundreds of different speciesofpollinatorsfoundintheSouth Key SouthDownsPollinators A new campaign called Bee Lines has A newcampaigncalledBeeLineshas SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019

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Bumblebee © Roger Kiernan Honey bee © Charles J Sharp Adonis Blue © Tim Squire ChaMP The South Downs National Park Authority is part of the Brighton 5 Simple ChaMP partnership which includes the Environment Agency, Southern Water, the University of Brighton and Brighton and Hove City Council, Ways to working together with Natural England, and the Brighton & Lewes Downs Biosphere (The Living Coast). The partnership is working to protect the aquifer and ensure our Protect groundwater remains a sustainable resource for the future. For more information about this project visit Your Water brightonchamp.org.uk. The water of the South Downs is an incredibly valuable • Use your car less natural asset for this region. Not only does the chalk We all know cars cause air pollution, but you may not know that road run- provide filtered drinking water to over a million people off is the third highest cause of water across our towns and cities, but the rivers provide a home pollution. Some cars leak oil and petrol, to important wildlife species and could support many more. and tyres and break pads wear down leaving heavy metals and microplastics It would be easy to take this kind of degrade and can remain in our food on the road. This pollution washes off life-sustaining resource for granted – but chain indefinitely. the road when it rains, down drains the simple truth is that we can’t. Sadly • Save water which often lead to groundwater, or statistics show that four fifths of the rivers This is particularly important during our rivers and then seas. Car tyres and streams in National Parks, as well as the summer months as lower rainfall make up the highest proportion of the aquifers which provide our drinking and hot weather place more pressure microplastics in the ocean. water, are currently considered in a “poor on the water reserves in the South • Reduce chemical use in your garden condition”, owing to decades of run-off Downs. Simple measures such as Excess fertiliser and pesticides run from surrounding land, both rural and turning off the tap while brushing your through the soil and can end up in urban. teeth, using a bucket of water to wash our groundwater, rivers, streams and The South Downs National Park your car and saving water in a water wetlands. Consider organic methods Authority is working closely with butt for the garden will really help. for pest, weed and disease control. landowners and farmers to reduce nitrate- • Remember the toilet and sink are rich run-off, but we can all play our part to not bins help preserve and improve the water of the Avoid putting sanitary products, wet The South Downs South Downs with these five simple steps. wipes and dental floss down the toilet. • Buy less plastic, and if you must The marine and river systems are National Park Authority is buy it – recycle or bin it! closely connected, and water quality More disposable packaging means can improve by taking this extra care. working closely with more plastic ends up in water courses. Also avoid pouring cooking oil, fat or Many birds are badly affected by grease down the kitchen sink. Instead, landowners and farmers plastic waste as it can be mistaken for keep a jar that collects all the fats, nest-building material or food. Litter grease or oil then discard with your to reduce nitrate-rich can be broken down into tiny particles general waste or add some seeds to called microplastics, which cannot make a bird feeder. run-off. Bumblebee © Roger Kiernan Honey bee © Charles J Sharp Squire Tim Adonis Blue ©

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 7 Key KeKey ySouth Downs National Park South Downs NationalWay Park South Downs Way (footpath only) South Downs Way Ra(footpathilway st ationsonly) There are so many attractions, nature Railway stations reserves, viewpoints and countryside CountrRailwayyside sites sites to explore in the South Downs. SeCountrttlementyside sites Here are a selection to get you started. SeVisitorttlement Information Points VCycleisitor hire Information Points 2 Cycle hire 2

9 8 24 © Anne Katrin Purkiss ©

Enjoy stunning views from the top of the historic iron age hill fort of Old Winchester Hill. © Gilbert White House © Gilbert

Visit the home of naturalist Gilbert White in the picturesque © SDNPA

village of Selborne. © John Dominick Bathe in autumnal yellows, Walk amongst the purple heather oranges and reds of the trees at at Iping and Stedham commons. Alice Holt WHERE WILL YOUR ADVENTURE TAKE YOU...

1 Winchester City Mill 24 Iping and Stedham Common 47 Mill Hill 2 25 48 St. Catherine’s Hill Woolbeding Gardens Southwick Hill 3 West Walk 26 Woolbeding Countryside 49 Devil’s Dyke/Fulking Escarpment 4 Beacon Hill 27 Marley Common 50 Saddlescombe Farm/Newtimber Hill 5 Hinton Ampner 28 Black Down 51 Woods Mill 6 Old Winchester Hill 29 Swan Barn Farm 52 Wolstonbury Hill 7 Chawton House 30 Ebernoe Common 53 Ditchling Beacon 8 Alice Holt Forest 31 The Mens 54 Black Cap 9 Gilbert White House & Oates Collection 32 Petworth House and Park 55 Castle Hill 10 Selborne Common 33 Lavington Common 56 Lewes Castle 11 Woolmer Forest 34 Bignor Hill 57 Lewes Downs/Mount Caburn 12 Ashford Hangers 35 Bignor Roman Villa 58 Monks House 13 Butser Hill 36 Slindon Estate 59 Charleston House 14 Queen Elizabeth Country Park 37 Arundel Castle 60 Long Man of Wilmington 15 Uppark House 38 Arundel Wildfowl & Wetland Trust 61 Lullington Heath 16 Harting Down 39 Amberley Working Museum 62 Alfriston Clergy House 17 40 Durford Heath Amberley Wildbrooks 63 Friston Forest 18 41 Kingley Vale Pulborough Brooks 64 Seven Sisters Country Park 19 42 Goodwood Sculpture Park Warren Hill and Sullington Warren 65 Seaford Head 20 Drovers 43 Chanctonbury Ring 66 Birling Gap and Seven Sisters 21 Heyshott Down 44 Highdown Hill 67 Beachy Head 22 Weald and Downland Museum 45 Cissbury Ring 23 Goodwood Country Park 46 Bramber Castle

46 34 56

65 © Chris Nesbit © SDNPA/Ian Canham © SDNPA/Ian Gaze up at the milky way from © Sam Moore/SDNPA Bignor Hill – one of 10 dark night Try our Miles Without Stiles route © SDNPA along the River Adur at Bramber sky discovery sites in the South Explore historic Lewes with its Breathe in the crisp winter air village. Visit southdowns.gov.uk/ Downs. cobbled streets and the 1,000 from atop of the iconic white visit for details. year old Norman castle. cliffs of the Seven Sisters on the Heritage Coast. 28 SEPTEMBER Autumn foraging & wild medicine walk National Trust, Woolbeding Countryside, Pound Common GU29 9RR nationaltrust.org.uk/woolbeding–countryside 01730 816638 £20 Booking essential 01730 816638 Events 28 SEPTEMBER Find out what events are happening near you this autumn Community apple pressing day and winter... National Trust, Swan Barn Farm, Haslemere GU27 2NX nationaltrust.org.uk/swan–barn–farm September 14, 15, 21 & 22 SEPTEMBER 01428 652359 FREE ADMISSION Batty About Bats family walk 28 SEPTEMBER 7 SEPTEMBER Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel West Sussex BN18 9PB Pulborough Harvest Fair Alresford Show Glebe Field, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 1AA Tichborne Park, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0PN wwt.org.uk/wetland–centres/arundel facebook.com/PulboroughHarvestFair alresfordshow.co.uk 01903 881530 £10 Free Community Event 01962 738748 Adult £15, Sen £13, Child 14, 21, 28 SEPTEMBER 29 SEPTEMBER (11–16) £5 Under 10’s Free Fairground at Night Green Dreams Festival 7 -8 SEPTEMBER Hollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LP Filed Place Manor House, The Boulevard, Worthing, Secrets of the Heath West Sussex BN13 1NP Petersfield Heath, Petersfield GU31 4LA hollycombe.co.uk/events 01903 446401 Free Community Event southdowns.gov.uk/heathlands-reunited 01428 724900 Adult £17/Child £14 (ticket 01730 814810 FREE ADMISSION valid for 12 months) 28–29 SEPTEMBER 8 SEPTEMBER 19 SEPTEMBER Leonard Woolf Day Romans in Residence: Butser IX Legion Woodland Way Challenge Butser Ancient Farm, Hampshire PO8 0BG Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Waterlooville, PO8 0QE National Trust, Monk’s House, The Street, Rodmell, butserancientfarm.co.uk onthewhistle.co.uk/woodland–way–challenge Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 3HF 02392598838 Normal admission applies Adult nationaltrust.org.uk/monks–house/whats–on 07887 515154 Adult £30–£32 £9 Child £5 Conc £8 (under 3’s free) 8 SEPTEMBER 01273 474760 Normal admission applies Archaeology Walk: Butser to Butser 19 SEPTEMBER October Butser Ancient Farm, Hampshire PO8 0BG Evening talk: Saving Cultural Heritage – The 2–31 OCTOBER butserancientfarm.co.uk Music of the Past with Jez Smith. 02392598838 £15 Butser Ancient Farm, Hampshire PO8 0BG Festival of Fungi RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, 10 SEPTEMBER butserancientfarm.co.uk 02392598838 £5 West Sussex, RH20 2EL Birding for Beginners – autumn migration rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, 21 SEPTEMBER 01798 875851 Suggested donation £1 West Sussex, RH20 2EL Big beach clean 5–6 OCTOBER rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks National Trust, South Downs East, Birling Gap, 01798 875851 £20/£16 RSPB members BN20 0AB Discover Birds weekend Booking essential nationaltrust.org.uk/birling–gap–and–the–seven– Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel West sisters Sussex BN18 9PB 14 SEPTEMBER 01323 423197 Booking essential wwt.org.uk/wetland–centres/arundel Wildlife photography for beginners 01903 881530 Free for WWT members, National Trust, Devil’s Dyke & Saddlescombe Farm, Nr 21 SEPTEMBER Normal admission price Brighton BN45 7DE West Grinstead Ploughing Match 5, 12, 19 OCTOBER nationaltrust.org.uk/devils–dyke Applesham Farm, Lancing, West Sussex BN15 0RP 01273 857712 £12 Booking essential 01903 879488 Adult 6.00/under 14s Free Fairground at Night Hollycombe Steam in the Country, Iron Hill, Liphook, 14 SEPTEMBER 21–22 SEPTEMBER Hampshire GU30 7LP Inspired by Nature workshop day – nature Saxons vs. Vikings hollycombe.co.uk/events photography & nature writing Butser Ancient Farm, Hampshire PO8 0BG 01428 724900 Adult £17/Child £14 (ticket RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, butserancientfarm.co.uk valid for 12 months) West Sussex, RH20 2EL 02392598838 Normal admission applies Adult 6 OCTOBER rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks £9 Child £5 Conc £8 (under 3’s free) Applefest at Alfriston 01798 875851 £125/£100 RSPB members 21 & 22 SEPTEMBER Booking essential National Trust, Alfriston Clergy House, Alfriston. BN26 5TL Heritage Open Days nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston–clergy–house 14 SEPTEMBER–14 OCTOBER National Trust, Petworth House, West Sussex, GU28 0AE 01323 871961 Normal Addmission applies nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth–house–and–park Winchester Science Centre: Curious 13 OCTOBER 01798 342207 FREE ADMISSION Combustions Bonkers For Conkers Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, Telegraph 22 SEPTEMBER & 27 OCTOBER Langham Brewery, Lodsworth, West Sussex GU28 9BU Way, Winchester, SO21 1HZ Seven Sisters archaeology walk langhambrewery.co.uk/calendar/ winchestersciencecentre.org/your–visit/whats–on National Trust, South Downs East, Birling Gap, BN20 0AB 01798 860861 FREE ADMISSION 01962 863791 £13.20 with giftaid (under 3’s nationaltrust.org.uk/birling–gap–and–the–seven– free) sisters 13 OCTOBER 01324 423197 £4 Booking essential Blackmoor Apple day Blackmoor, Liss, Hampshire GU33 6BS 01420 476003 Free event 17 OCTOBER Bonkers For Conkers at Stargazing Party! RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, Langham Brewery West Sussex, RH20 2EL Sunday 13 October rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 01798 875851 £7.50/£6 RSPB members 13:00 – 18:30 Booking essential 18 & 25 OCTOBER Langham are reaching out to all serious The Devils Dyke fungi hunts 1&2 sports men, women, families, children National Trust, Devil’s Dyke & Saddlescombe Farm, Nr Brighton BN45 7DE (and their dogs) to join their annual nationaltrust.org.uk/devils–dyke daredevil contest of skill and danger! 01273 857712 £12 Booking essential It’s free, but please give generously as 19 OCTOBER–10 NOVEMBER FREE Winchester Science Centre: Inventions we’ll be collecting for Chestnut Tree House Hospice Care Sussex. Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, Telegraph There will be two competitions taking place to find the junior (8 to 15 years) and Way, Winchester, SO21 1HZ senior conker champions of 2019. Also enjoy award winning ales, live music from winchestersciencecentre.org/your–visit/whats–on 01962 863791 £13.20 with giftaid (under 3’s Worthing Silver Brass Band and the Yukon Bass ukulele trio, as well as delicious free) South African BBQ and lots more. Visit langhambrewery.co.uk for full details. 10 SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 27 OCTOBER 16 NOVEMBER Wild families – Mousehunt! Birding for Beginners – winter guests RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, West Sussex, RH20 2EL West Sussex, RH20 2EL rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 01798 875851 £7/£5.60 RSPB members 01798 875851 £20/£16 RSPB members Booking essential Booking essential 28 OCTOBER–1 NOVEMBER 24 NOVEMBER Halloween creepy creatures trail Festive Frolic National Trust, South Downs East, Birling Gap, BN20 0AB Staunton Country Park, Havant, PO9 5HB

© SDNPA/Anne Katrin Purkiss © SDNPA/Anne FREE nationaltrust.org.uk/birling–gap–and–the–seven– onthewhistle.co.uk/festive sisters 07887 515154 Adult £30–£32 October half-term fun 01325 423197 Child £2 29 NOVEMBER 28 OCTOBER–1 NOVEMBER Stargazing Party! 26 October – 3 November Magical Mahem – Halloween RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Waterlooville, PO8 0QE West Sussex, RH20 2EL Winchester City Mill hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/countryparks/qecp rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 02392 595040 Various – see website 01798 875851 £7.50/£6 RSPB members As well as experiencing the full force 28 OCTOBER–1 NOVEMBER Booking essential of the River Itchen as it roars beneath October half term – Samhain, Storytelling, 30 NOVEMBER–1 DECEMBER Winchester City Mill, there’s lots Skeletons and Spooky Stuff! Christmas craft weekend Butser Ancient Farm, Hampshire PO8 0BG National Trust, South Downs East, Birling Gap, BN20 taking place in October half-term for butserancientfarm.co.uk 0AB all the family. From apple identification 02392598838 Normal admission applies Adult nationaltrust.org.uk/birling–gap–and–the–seven– and baking demonstrations to £9 Child £5 Conc £8 (under 3’s free) sisters 31 OCTOBER 1326 423197 Prices & times vary Booking spooky Halloween storytelling and Wild families – Halloween Hootenanny essential a bat cryptogram family trail. Visit RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, 30 NOVEMBER–1 DECEMBER nationaltrust.org.uk/winchester- West Sussex, RH20 2EL Wild winter weekend rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, city-mill – all activities are free after 01798 875851 Child £5/£4 RSPB members + West Sussex, RH20 2EL general admission. nature trail entry fees rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 01798 875851 FREE ADMISSION – charges November apply to guided walks & workshops 20 OCTOBER 1 NOVEMBER 30 NOVEMBER–22 DECEMBER W/E ONLY Nature photography workshop – autumn colurs Museums at Night: ‘After dark’ tour Christmas through the ages & landscape Butser Ancient Farm, Hampshire PO8 0BG National Trust, Alfriston Clergy House, Alfriston. BN26 RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, butserancientfarm.co.uk 5TL West Sussex, RH20 2EL 02392598838 £15 nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston–clergy–house 01323 871961 Normal admission applies rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 1 NOVEMBER 01798 875851 £60/£48 RSPB members Wild families – Pondemonium! 30 NOVEMBER–5 JANUARY Booking essential RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, Lady Sarah’s Christmas family trail 25 OCTOBER West Sussex, RH20 2EL National Trust, Uppark House and Gardens, South Samhain Festival rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks Harting GU31 5QR Butser Ancient Farm, Hampshire PO8 0BG 01798 875851 Child £3/£2.40 RSPB members nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark–house–and–garden 01730 825415 £2 per trail and normal butserancientfarm.co.uk + nature trail entry fees admission applies 02392598838 £15 2 NOVEMBER 26 OCTOBER–3 NOVEMBER Halloween pumpkins & scary masks December Half–term: Frankenstein trail National Trust, Devil’s Dyke & Saddlescombe Farm, Nr National Trust, Hinton Ampner, Nr Alresford SO24 0LA Brighton BN45 7DE 1–31 DECEMBER nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton–ampner nationaltrust.org.uk/devils–dyke Christmas: Hinton’s fables and trail 01962 771305 £1 per trail and normal 01273 857712 Adult £12/Child £6 Booking National Trust, Hinton Ampner, Nr Alresford SO24 0LA admission applies essential nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton–ampner 01962 771305 £2 per trail Booking essential 26 OCTOBER 3 & 24 NOVEMBER Brighton Wonderfest ‘Futures’ Baking demonstrations 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 DECEMBER Brighton Racecourse, Freshfield Road, Brighton National Trust, Winchester City Mill, Bridge Street, Christmas at the Park BN2 9XS Winchester, Hants, SO23 9BH Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Waterlooville, PO8 0QE brightonwonderfest.com nationaltrust.org.uk/winchester–city–mill hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/countryparks/qecp Free event 01962 870057 Free for National Trust 02392 595040 Various members. Adult £5/Child £2.50 26–27 OCTOBER Apple Harvest weekend 6 NOVEMBER National Trust, Winchester City Mill, Bridge Street, Pond to pond Winchester, Hants, SO23 9BH National Trust, Slindon Estate, Slindon BN18 0RG nationaltrust.org.uk/winchester–city–mill nationaltrust.org.uk/slindon–estate 01962 870057 Free for National Trust 01243 814730 Adult £10 Child £7 Booking members. Adult £5/Child £2.50 essential 26 OCTOBER–3 NOVEMBER 9–10 NOVEMBER October half–term fun Winter Wellness Weekend National Trust, Winchester City Mill, Bridge Street, Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel West Winchester, Hants, SO23 9BH Sussex BN18 9PB nationaltrust.org.uk/winchester–city–mill wwt.org.uk/wetland–centres/arundel Ancient Farm © Butser FREE 01962 870057 Free for National Trust 01903 881530 Free for WWT members, members. Adult £5/Child £2.50 Normal admission price Tales of Winter Magic 26 OCTOBER–3 NOVEMBER 16–24 NOVEMBER Half–term potion trail Winchester Science Centre: Sound & Vibration 13 December National Trust, Uppark House and Gardens, South Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, Telegraph Harting GU31 5QR Way, Winchester, SO21 1HZ Butser Ancient Farm nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark–house–and–garden winchestersciencecentre.org/your–visit/whats–on Join us in the great roundhouse 01962 863791 £13.20 with giftaid (under 3’s 01730 825415 £1 per trail and normal for a festive early evening of Winter admission applies free) 26 OCTOBER–4 NOVEMBER 16 NOVEMBER Solstice storytelling. Enjoy a hot Nocturnal Nature half term Evening Roost Late opening chocolate around the roaring fire Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel West Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel West while you soak up the atmosphere – Sussex BN18 9PB Sussex BN18 9PB wwt.org.uk/wetland–centres/arundel wwt.org.uk/wetland–centres/arundel a lovely evening for all the family. 01903 881530 Free for WWT members, 01903 881530 Free for WWT members, Adult £15/ Child £8/ Family £40 Normal admission price Normal admission price SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 11 6 DECEMBER 21–23 DECEMBER 8 FEBRUARY Stargazing Party! The Holly King; an ancient midwinter celebration Stargazing South Downs – Midhurst RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, Butser Ancient Farm, Hampshire PO8 0BG Midhurst Rother College, North Street, Midhurst, West Sussex, RH20 2EL butserancientfarm.co.uk GU29 9DT rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 02392598838 £10 per person (under 3’s free) southdowns.gov.uk/darkskiesfestival 01798 875851 £7.50/£6 RSPB members 01730 814810 FREE ADMISSION Booking essential January–March 8 FEBRUARY–1 MARCH 7 DECEMBER–5 JANUARY 1 JANUARY Winchester Science Centre: Destination Space Christmas before turkey and tinsel! New Year’s Day milling demonstration Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, Telegraph National Trust, Petworth House, West Sussex, GU28 0AE National Trust, Winchester City Mill, Bridge Street, Way, Winchester, SO21 1HZ nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth–house–and–park Winchester, Hants, SO23 9BH winchestersciencecentre.org/your–visit/whats–on 01798 342207 Normal Addmission applies nationaltrust.org.uk/winchester–city–mill 01962 863791 £13.20 with giftaid (under 3’s 7, 8, 14 & 15 DECEMBER 01962 870057 FREE ADMISSION free) Sail to Santa 1 JANUARY 15–23 FEBRUARY Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel West New Year’s Day walk February half–term fun Sussex BN18 9PB National Trust, Hinton Ampner, Nr Alresford SO24 0LA National Trust, Winchester City Mill, Bridge Street, wwt.org.uk/wetland–centres/arundel nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton–ampner Winchester, Hants, SO23 9BH 01903 881530 £8, plus admission price, Free 01962 771305 £10 Booking essential nationaltrust.org.uk/winchester–city–mill for WWT members 6 JANUARY–20 MARCH 01962 870057 Free for National Trust 10 DECEMBER J.M.W Turner at Petworth members. Adult £5/Child £2.50 Christmas at Saddlescombe Farm National Trust, Petworth House, West Sussex, GU28 0AE 15– 23 FEBRUARY National Trust, Devil’s Dyke & Saddlescombe Farm, Nr nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth–house–and–park Sussex Puddle Jumping Championship Brighton BN45 7DE 01798 342207 Normal Addmission applies Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel West nationaltrust.org.uk/devils–dyke 11 JANUARY Sussex BN18 9PB 01273 857712 £25 Booking essential Dawn of the Ducks wwt.org.uk/wetland–centres/arundel 13 DECEMBER RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, 01903 881530 Free for WWT members, Tales of Winter Magic West Sussex, RH20 2EL Normal admission price Butser Ancient Farm, Hampshire PO8 0BG rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 18 FEBRUARY butserancientfarm.co.uk 01798 875851 £28/£22.40 RSPB members Stargazing South Downs – Petersfield 02392598838 Adult £15/ Child £8/ Family Booking essential Petersfield Festival Hall, Heath Road, Petersfield, £40 11 JANUARY–2 FEBRUARY Hampshire, GU31 4EA 14 DECEMBER Winchester Science Centre: Microscopic Marvels southdowns.gov.uk/darkskiesfestival Andrew Pickett/ SDNPA © Way the Egrets Walking Alder Valley Brass Christmas Carols Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, Telegraph 01730 814810 FREE ADMISSION National Trust, Winchester City Mill, Bridge Street, Way, Winchester, SO21 1HZ 20 FEBRUARY Winchester, Hants, SO23 9BH winchestersciencecentre.org/your–visit/whats–on Stargazing South Downs – Lewes nationaltrust.org.uk/winchester–city–mill 01962 863791 £13.20 with giftaid (under 3’s Lewes Town Hall, High Street, Lewes, East Sussex, 01962 870057 Free for National Trust free) BN7 2QS members. Adult £5/Child £2.50 13 JANUARY–14 FEBRUARY southdowns.gov.uk/darkskiesfestival 14–15 DECEMBER Winter conservation opening 01730 814810 FREE ADMISSION Christmas family fun National Trust, Hinton Ampner, Nr Alresford SO24 0LA 21 FEBRUARY National Trust, South Downs East, Birling Gap, BN20 nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton–ampner Stargazing Party! 0AB 01962 771305 Normal admission applies RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, nationaltrust.org.uk/birling–gap–and–the–seven– 14 JANUARY West Sussex, RH20 2EL sisters Birding for Beginners – winter guests rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 01328 423197 Child £5 RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, 01798 875851 £7.50/£6 RSPB members 15 DECEMBER West Sussex, RH20 2EL Booking essential Carols in the cafe rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 21 FEBRUARY National Trust, South Downs East, Birling Gap, 01798 875851 £20/£16 RSPB members Stargazing evening with HantsAstro BN20 0AB Booking essential Butser Ancient Farm, Hampshire PO8 0BG nationaltrust.org.uk/birling–gap–and–the–seven– 17 JANUARY butserancientfarm.co.uk sisters Winter wassailing 02392598838 Adult £8 Child £5 01329 423197 £7 per person Booking National Trust, Swan Barn Farm, Haslemere GU27 2NX 1 MARCH essential nationaltrust.org.uk/swan–barn–farm Dark Skies Day 01428 652359 FREE ADMISSION Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel West 25–26 JANUARY Sussex BN18 9PB Early Bird early opening wwt.org.uk/wetland–centres/arundel Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel West 01903 881530 Free for WWT members, Sussex BN18 9PB Normal admission price wwt.org.uk/wetland–centres/arundel 7–22 MARCH 01903 881530 Free for WWT members, Winchester Science Centre: DIY Science Normal admission price Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, Telegraph 26 JANUARY Way, Winchester, SO21 1HZ Baking demonstrations winchestersciencecentre.org/your–visit/whats–on 01962 863791 £13.20 with giftaid (under 3’s © Alex Bamford FREE National Trust, Winchester City Mill, Bridge Street, Winchester, Hants, SO23 9BH free) nationaltrust.org.uk/winchester–city–mill 20 MARCH Stargazing South Downs 01962 870057 Free for National Trust Stargazing Party! RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, Taking place at three locations across members. Adult £5/Child £2.50 1 FEBRUARY West Sussex, RH20 2EL the National Park, Stargazing South Imbolc Celtic Spring Festival rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks Downs is an evening of all things Butser Ancient Farm, Hampshire PO8 0BG 01798 875851 £7.50/£6 RSPB members Booking essential dark and starry. Join us at one of the butserancientfarm.co.uk 02392598838 £15 21 MARCH following events: 2 FEBRUARY Birdsong masterclass – resident birds RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough, • Saturday 8 February at Midhurst World Wetland Day Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel West West Sussex, RH20 2EL Rother College Sussex BN18 9PB rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 01798 875851 £20/£16 RSPB members wwt.org.uk/wetland–centres/arundel • Tuesday 18 February at Booking essential 01903 881530 Free for WWT members, Petersfield Festival Hall Normal admission price 30–31 MARCH • Thursday 20 February at Lewes 7–23 FEBRUARY Historic Life Weekend: Museum Makers Town Hall South Downs Dark Skies Festival Weald & Downland Living Museum, West Sussex, Multiple locations PO18 0EU wealddown.co.uk southdowns.gov.uk/darkskiesfestival Visit southdowns.gov.uk/ 01243 811363 Adults £14/Child £6.50 (Under 01730 814810 FREE ADMISSION darkskiesfestival for more details. 4s FREE)

12 SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 Don’t let the darker months

Walking the Egrets Way © Andrew Pickett/ SDNPA © Way the Egrets Walking get you down

The breathing space of the South Downs National Park, “forest bathing” and enjoying natural light can do wonders to boost mental health. Whether it’s walking a section of the 4. Natural light is essential for South Downs Way and soaking up the healthy brain function Explore the trails and wildlife at RSPB wide open views, or a family cycle ride Spending too much time indoors, Pulborough Brooks. in the woods, getting outdoors is proven away from natural light, can have a to reduce stress and generally promote negative impact on our mental health a feeling of happiness. Say no to feeling and studies suggest it can contribute glum this winter and try one of the to sleep issues, poor memory and following… anxiety. Just 20 minutes of exposure 1. Going for a walk releases feel- to daylight can increase the brain’s good chemicals levels of serotonin and help control our A walk in the countryside builds up natural circadian rhythms that dictate cardiovascular fitness and releases sleep-wake cycles. So important in the feel-good chemical in the brain, winter! serotonin. 5. Breathe in the clean fresh air! 2. Forest bathing reduces stress Studies indicate that reduced The National Park is a treasure trove atmospheric pollutants can help of woodland, such as Alice Holt, support and maintain mental health. Pick your own pumpkin at Durleigh Stansted and Friston. Forest bathing So get out into the country and Marsh Farm. simply means immersing yourself in breathe deeply! a forest setting. Originating in Japan For more ideas on getting out and and now a cornerstone of Japanese enjoying the National Park, visit healthcare, it is a natural way to calm southdowns.gov.uk/enjoy the senses and promote a feeling of peace in a busy world. 3. Getting closer to nature increases To find inspiration for walks or self-esteem cycle rides in the South Downs Studies point towards spending time National Park visit southdowns. in a greener environment as being gov.uk/visit. You’ll also find good for increasing self-esteem, details about the South Downs reducing the stress hormone cortisol Way National Trail and our Miles Get back to nature with a campout at and reducing blood pressure. Without Stiles accessible routes Housedean campsite. here too.

SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 13 erries, gho Ch sts village f and etes

Sara Clifford has been on a whistlestop tour of the South Downs. She was a woman on a mission – to discover people’s stories, anecdotes, legends, myths and musings that make this National Park such a special place. rom chocolate-box villages Downs-inspired poems that have been Street and apparently there’s a silver to vibrant pubs, tireless used to influence the show. coffin at the top of Firle Beacon. Did you volunteers to bright-eyed During her travels, Sara learned several know that the Romans brought cherries schoolchildren, Sara smiles interesting facts about the National Park over and would spit out the cherry stones broadly as she recalls her and was intrigued by people’s reactions so we ended up with roads lined with Fincredible journey over the past few when she shared her newfangled cherry trees?” months, all the interesting characters knowledge. And it’s this humble fruit that sets she has encountered, and her the scene for Sara’s show, which she newfound love…the great British fete. is directing but will be delivered by a And now, having spoken to over ...it’s the bit in the professional performer. Entitled “Cherry 500 people across the South Downs, Soup – True”, and not so true, tales of the the playwright has weaved the stories middle that I’ve now South Downs, Sara bills it as “sweet and together into a quirky one-person, discovered! I’ve found its sour and a little unexpected”. one-hour show that will be performed “The story is a cherry seller sitting by in venues across the region during diversity amazing – you have the road in a creaky camping chair and September. the coast in East Sussex, to people stop by and tell their stories,” “It’s been fantastic – I’ve absolutely explains Sara. “It’s a mixture of stories, a loved it” beams Sara, who became the the rolling hills, and then bit of music, and hopefully it will be quite Writer in Residence for the National Park dense woodland with sun- humorous in places for the audience. As earlier this year in a partnership with Inn well as the people, the strawberries and Crowd, managed by Applause Rural dappled lanes. cream of village fetes will be the enduring Touring and supported by Arts Council memory of her trip. England. “I went to lots of village fetes – I’ve “I love the South Downs anyway and, She explains: “A lot of people didn’t got a bit obsessed with them!” laughs living in Lewes, I’ve always felt very lucky know the South Downs was formed from Sara, who has the chutneys in her kitchen to be in the heart of the National Park. I the chalky remains of tiny sea creatures cabinet to prove it. “They’re a melting pot used to come down to Winchester as a in a primeval ocean or that Winchester of different people and a great celebration child so I knew that side of the National had two cathedrals at one point, the Old of South Downs life.” Park fairly well. But it’s the bit in the middle Minster and the New – but the new one that I’ve now discovered! I’ve found its was built so close that the two choirs diversity amazing – you have the coast in were clashing with each other. Touring around the South Downs East Sussex, to the rolling hills, and then “I also learned a lot about local in September 2019 visit inncrowd. dense woodland with sun-dappled lanes.” ghosts and legends. Each place seems org.uk/writers-in-residence to The hundreds of people who chatted to have its own local legend! There was find show dates, locations and times. with Sara put pen to paper to write a clanking woman in Winchester’s High 14 SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 DISCOVER THE HEATHS OF THE SOUTH DOWNS The chalk escarpments define the east of the South Downs National Park, but as you move west, the landscape changes. Open hills give way to a fascinating network of ancient hedge-lined lanes, dense tracts of woodland, and purple heaths.

Stretching between Petersfield and The South Downs heaths are great magical. And are now even easier to find StorringtonHeathlands these heathsReun areited among Area the Ma pto visit at any time of year but when the thanks to an online interactive map – visit rarest of all the habitats in the Downs, purple heather blooms in August and southdowns.gov.uk/find-your-local- covering just 1 per cent. September they become even more heath.

SANDHILLS 0 2.5 miles

5 Kms

HINDHEAD BORDON Our heathlands

HASLEMERE 1 Slab and Warren (MOD), 8 Shortheath Common Stanley and Lynchmere LIPHOOK Common

2 Kingsley Common (MOD), N

Broxhead Common 9 Marley Common,U

A Black Down

3 R

Common, Bramshott Chase 10 Woolbeding E V

R FERNHURST 4 Woolmer Forest and 11 Iping, Stedham and LISS A283 Longmoor enclosure (MOD) Trotton Common

A3 MILLAND 5 Bramshott Common (MOD) 12 Ambersham and IL Heyshott Common SE RA 6 Durford Heath, Combe RPENT T Hill, Hambledon Piece, 13 Graffham Common, Tullecombe Lavington Common/ Plantation, New Piece, PETERSFIELD 7 Coldharbour Wood, Welches and Warren

A286 A272 Chapel Common PETWORTH 14 Wiggonholt CommonA29 and Rackham Plantation MIDHURST A283 Key RI VER Road RO Heathland area TH ER Heathland area – Railway PULBOROUGH Ministry of Defence Land (MOD) Restricted Access Station SOU Project boundary TH DOWNS WA Settlement Y South Downs National Park boundary A285

WATCH OUR CANINE Say Hi to our Dog Ambassadors CONFESSION FILMS BE A RESPONSIBLE DOG WALKER Heathlands are great sites for walking your dog – just be sure to follow our top tips on being a responsible TAKE THE LEAD dog owner below. Lookout for our dog ambassadors southdowns.gov.uk/takethelead KEEP YOUR DOG ON THE LEAD while out and about on the heaths – you’ll be able to spot NEAR LIVESTOCK them by their branded gilets. They BAG AND BIN YOUR DOG POO would love to have a chat about – ANY BIN WILL DO STICK TO THE PATH TO AVOID dog walking and are happy GROUND NESTING BIRDS to answer any questions DO NOT ENTER MILITARY LAND WHEN RED FLAGS ARE FLYING you might have. If you’re interested in becoming a dog ambassador please email heathlands@southdowns. gov.uk for more information. SOUTH DOWNS VIEW – AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 15 The South Downs Trust is the ofﬁcial charity of the South Downs. We have big ambitions for your National Park – we want to see more of the land managed for wildlife, more rare habitats protected, more local communities thriving and more people able to access and enjoy the landscapes.

Last year, with your support, we achieved so much, but we want to do more. Please help us by donating via the Trust’s website – southdownstrust.org.uk

With your support, in 2018 we completed the longest single piece of South Downs Way restoration ever at Plumpton Plain. AFTER RESTORATION: BEFORE RESTORATION: Plumpton Plumpton Plain Plain, South Downs Way GIFTS IN WILLS Gifts in wills can help ensure that the South Downs landscape will be protected for future generations. After you’ve thought of family and friends, you may choose to support the South Downs Trust by leaving a gift in your will. Any gift will make a difference to conserve and enhance the South Downs. Contact James Winkworth for more details – [email protected]

1,312 2,500 4 1,600 550 Visits funded Metres of hedge Apprentices Metres of path Trees planted for children planted funded restored