Where long ridgelines, quiet forests, and coastlines tell the story of old England.
South East England offers a blend of natural calm and cultural depth — from the rolling chalk ridgelines of the South Downs to the wooded slopes of the Surrey Hills, and from the High Weald’s ancient farmscapes to the iconic cliffs of the Seven Sisters. It’s a region shaped by centuries of footsteps, where every path carries a sense of heritage and quiet discovery.
This is walking country at its most varied. You’ll find broad views from the South Downs Way, cathedral towns and chalk valleys along the North Downs Way, and woodland trails winding through the High Weald and Kent Downs. It’s a landscape made for walking holidays, where routes move between villages like Lewes, Rye, and Tenterden, across open fields, beech hangers, and down to the sea.
But the South East is also a place for wider exploration. Coastal paths around Eastbourne, Seaford, and Whitstable reveal stories carved into chalk cliffs and saltmarsh edges, while inland routes take you past vineyards, water meadows, and heathy ridges. Add peaceful bridleways, riverside towpaths, and nature reserves full of birdlife, and you’ll find endless opportunities for gentle, immersive outdoor adventures without ever straying far from a station or village.
From the high tracks of the South Downs to the sandstone ridges of the High Weald and the shorelines of Kent, the South East is also ideal for relaxed cycling holidays, with quiet back roads and scenic lanes joining ridgelines, coast paths, and rural hamlets. It’s a region where movement feels natural — whether you’re riding through open countryside or wandering footpaths steeped in local story.
And when the day slows, South East England offers independent places to stay close to its trails, coastlines, and countryside — from cosy pubs and coastal B&Bs to countryside cottages, eco-lodges, and quiet guesthouses tucked between ridgelines and villages. Wherever you base yourself, the walking begins right at the door.
This 100-mile National Trail runs from Winchester to Eastbourne, tracing a chalk ridgeline through Hampshire and East Sussex. Walkers pass open fields, beech hangers, and market towns like Petersfield and Lewes, with long views over the Weald and out to sea.
A ridge trail running from Farnham to Dover, crossing both the Surrey Hills and Kent Downs National Landscapes. Highlights include Canterbury Cathedral, Box Hill, and peaceful stretches through woodland, pasture, and historic villages.
This inland area is full of short, scenic walks through wooded valleys, sandstone ridges, and ancient farmscapes. Base yourself in Rye, Tenterden, or Lewes to explore trails wrapped in rural charm, hedgerows, and heritage.
The Seven Sisters cliffs between Seaford and Eastbourne offer one of England’s most dramatic coastal walks. Further east, explore the Kent coast — with saltmarshes, shingle beaches, and villages like Whitstable, Deal, and Sandwich.
South East England rewards quiet exploration. From long-distance trails to weekend escapes, the region offers independent places to stay close to ridgelines, coast paths, and peaceful countryside — perfect for walkers, cyclists, and slow travellers.
The South Downs Way and North Downs Way are the two most iconic National Trails in the region, offering ridge walks, historic villages, and coastal views. Both are well-marked and ideal for self-guided holidays.
Yes. The High Weald, Surrey Hills, and Kent Downs offer excellent shorter walks through woodland, farmland, and heritage sites. Look for local waymarked trails or nature reserves near towns like Lewes, Rye, and Tenterden.
Absolutely. With its mix of gentle terrain, walkable towns, and rich local character, the region is perfect for slow, immersive travel — whether on foot, by bike, or along scenic rural train routes.
Try cycling the South Downs Way or Wealden lanes, paddling the River Arun or Medway, and birdwatching at Rye Harbour, Pagham Harbour, or RSPB Dungeness. The South East is full of multi-activity possibilities.
You’ll find country pubs, guesthouses, self-catering cottages, eco-lodges, and coastal B&Bs. Many are located directly on or near major walking routes in Sussex, Kent, and the South Downs.