How to Walk the South Downs Link

The South Downs Link is a transformative long-distance walking route that connects two of England’s most iconic national trails: the South Downs Way and the Monarch’s Way. Spanning approximately 48 miles (77 kilometers) through the rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and tranquil river valleys of East Sussex and Hampshire, this route offers walkers an immersive journey through some of the most historically rich and scenically diverse landscapes in southern England. Unlike the more heavily trodden South Downs Way, the South Downs Link is a lesser-known gem—quiet, unspoiled, and deeply rewarding for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Designed to bridge the gap between the eastern terminus of the South Downs Way at Eastbourne and the western continuation of the Monarch’s Way near Winchester, the South Downs Link is more than just a connector—it’s a standalone pilgrimage through centuries of English heritage. From Roman roads and Saxon burial mounds to medieval pilgrimage routes and Victorian-era footpaths, every step along this trail echoes with history. For hikers seeking solitude, natural beauty, and cultural depth, mastering the South Downs Link is not merely a physical challenge; it’s a meaningful exploration of landscape and legacy.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to walking the South Downs Link, whether you plan to complete it in one ambitious journey or break it into manageable sections over several days. You’ll learn how to prepare, navigate, and enjoy the route with confidence, backed by practical advice, expert tips, and real-world examples from those who’ve walked it before. By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the knowledge needed to walk the South Downs Link safely, sustainably, and with profound appreciation for the land beneath your feet.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Route’s Layout and Key Sections

The South Downs Link is divided into six distinct sections, each offering unique terrain, landmarks, and rest points. Understanding the full layout before you begin is essential for planning logistics, accommodation, and daily mileage goals. The route begins at Eastbourne’s Seaside Pavilion and ends at the historic city of Winchester, passing through the villages of Alfriston, Plaistow, Fittleworth, and Selborne along the way.

Section 1: Eastbourne to Alfriston (8 miles / 13 km)

This opening leg follows the South Downs Way’s easternmost stretch, climbing gently from the coastal cliffs of Eastbourne through the Seven Sisters Country Park. The path winds across chalk grasslands dotted with wildflowers in spring and early summer. Key landmarks include the iconic Seven Sisters cliffs and the historic Alfriston Clergy House, a National Trust property. This section is relatively easy but offers panoramic views that set the tone for the journey.

Section 2: Alfriston to Plaistow (9 miles / 14.5 km)

Leaving Alfriston, the trail descends into the River Cuckmere valley, crossing the river via a footbridge near the picturesque village of Cuckmere Haven. From here, the path climbs through the ancient woodland of Jevington and follows the ridge toward the hamlet of Plaistow. This section features the most significant elevation gain on the entire route, with steep ascents and descents that demand sturdy footwear and good fitness.

Section 3: Plaistow to Fittleworth (11 miles / 18 km)

This is the longest and most varied section. The route enters the South Downs National Park’s heartland, passing through the village of East Dean and the historic site of Cissbury Ring—an Iron Age hillfort with sweeping 360-degree views. The path then descends into the valley of the River Arun, crossing fields and hedgerows before reaching the quiet village of Fittleworth. This leg offers the most opportunities for wildlife spotting, including skylarks, brown hares, and rare chalkland butterflies.

Section 4: Fittleworth to Selborne (7 miles / 11 km)

A gentler, more pastoral stretch, this section follows the course of the River Rother through the South Downs’ western fringes. The trail passes through the village of Petersfield and skirts the edge of the Rother Valley Country Park. The highlight is the approach to Selborne, home to the 18th-century naturalist Gilbert White. His house and garden, now a museum, are a must-visit for those interested in natural history.

Section 5: Selborne to Liss (8 miles / 13 km)

This leg traverses the Hampshire Downs, a quieter, more wooded section of the route. The path winds through the ancient forest of Selborne Common and the heathland of Liss Common. Watch for rare heathland flora such as the Dartford warbler and the silver-studded blue butterfly. The terrain here is more undulating, with steeper climbs than previous sections, but the shade from the canopy offers welcome relief on warm days.

Section 6: Liss to Winchester (5 miles / 8 km)

The final stretch is the most urbanized, transitioning from open heathland into the historic city of Winchester. The route follows the old Roman road of Stane Street before joining the Monarch’s Way near the Winchester Cathedral. The walk ends at the cathedral’s west front, a fittingly majestic conclusion to a journey steeped in history. This section is short but demands attention to urban crossings and signage.

Step 2: Choose Your Direction and Timing

While the South Downs Link can be walked in either direction, most walkers prefer to begin in Eastbourne and end in Winchester. This allows you to walk with the prevailing wind at your back and enjoy the gradual ascent toward the chalk uplands, culminating in the historic grandeur of Winchester. Walking east to west also aligns with the natural flow of the South Downs Way, making it easier to connect with signage and local trail markers.

Timing is critical. The best months to walk the South Downs Link are April through June and September through early October. Spring offers wildflower blooms and mild temperatures, while early autumn provides crisp air, golden foliage, and fewer crowds. Avoid July and August if possible—these months can be hot, dry, and crowded with day-trippers on the South Downs Way. Winter walking is possible but not recommended due to shorter daylight hours, muddy paths, and potential closures after heavy rain.

If you’re planning a multi-day trek, aim for 4–6 days to complete the route comfortably. This allows for rest, exploration of villages, and flexibility in case of weather delays. Solo walkers should consider adding an extra day for safety and pacing.

Step 3: Plan Your Accommodation and Resupply Points

Accommodation along the South Downs Link is limited compared to major trails like the Pennine Way, so advance booking is essential. The route passes through several small villages with guesthouses, B&Bs, and pubs offering rooms. Key stops include Alfriston, East Dean, Fittleworth, Selborne, and Liss. Larger towns like Petersfield and Winchester offer more options, including hotels and hostels.

For those preferring camping, wild camping is not legally permitted in England without landowner permission. However, designated campsites exist near Eastbourne, Petersfield, and Winchester. Consider using the National Trust’s “Sleep Out” program at Cissbury Ring (by reservation) or the South Downs National Park’s approved campgrounds.

Resupply points are sparse between villages. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person per day, especially in summer. Water fountains are rare, and many streams are seasonal. Plan your daily stages to pass through a village at least once for food, water, and emergency supplies. Alfriston, Fittleworth, and Selborne have small grocery stores, while Petersfield and Winchester have full supermarkets.

Step 4: Prepare Your Gear and Pack Light

Proper gear is non-negotiable. The South Downs Link features steep climbs, uneven chalk paths, muddy valleys, and exposed ridges. Your pack should include:

• Footwear: Waterproof, ankle-supporting hiking boots with aggressive tread. Chalk can be slippery when wet, and the trail includes rocky sections.
• Layered Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, a lightweight insulated jacket, and a waterproof shell. Weather changes rapidly on the downs.
• Backpack: 30–40 liters with hip belt and hydration compatibility. Carry a rain cover.
• Navigation Tools: Physical map (OS Explorer 122 and 123) and compass. GPS apps are helpful but unreliable in remote areas.
• Water: Minimum 2 liters per day; consider a filtration system for emergency use.
• Food: High-energy snacks (nuts, dried fruit, energy bars), sandwiches, and a thermos for hot drinks on cold days.
• First Aid: Blister care kit, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medication.
• Emergency Items: Whistle, headlamp with spare batteries, emergency blanket, and fully charged power bank.

Weight matters. A fully loaded pack should not exceed 15% of your body weight. Test your gear on shorter hikes before embarking on the full route.

Step 5: Navigate the Route with Confidence

The South Downs Link is not fully waymarked like the South Downs Way. While some sections follow public footpaths with standard yellow arrows, others rely on older signage or require map-reading skills. The route is officially designated as a “Long Distance Path” by the Ramblers Association, but signage varies.

Use the following navigation strategy:

• Start with the OS Explorer Map 122 (Eastbourne to Petersfield) and 123 (Petersfield to Winchester).
• Download the official South Downs Link GPX file from the Ramblers website or AllTrails.
• Use a GPS app like Gaia GPS or ViewRanger with offline maps loaded.
• Look for ancient trackways, such as the Pilgrims’ Way near Fittleworth, which often follow the same alignment as the modern trail.
• Pay attention to field boundaries, stone walls, and hedgerows—they often mark the route’s edge.
• When in doubt, follow the direction of the prevailing wind or the contour of the land. The trail generally runs parallel to the chalk ridge.

Never rely solely on phone signals. Carry a physical map and know how to use it. If you become disoriented, stop, consult your map, and retrace your steps to the last known point.

Step 6: Respect the Land and Local Communities

The South Downs Link passes through privately owned farmland, protected habitats, and historic sites. Always follow the Countryside Code:

• Close all gates behind you.
• Keep dogs under control—many fields contain livestock.
• Do not pick wildflowers or disturb wildlife.
• Take all litter with you, including food waste and biodegradable items.
• Stay on marked paths to prevent erosion and protect fragile chalk grassland.
• Be quiet and respectful near homes and farms.

Support local businesses. Buy food and drinks from village shops, stay in family-run B&Bs, and leave positive reviews. Your presence as a responsible walker helps preserve the trail for future generations.

Step 7: Complete the Journey with Reflection

Arriving at Winchester Cathedral is more than a finish line—it’s a moment of quiet triumph. Take time to sit in the cathedral’s cloisters, reflect on your journey, and read the plaque commemorating the South Downs Link’s creation. Many walkers choose to sign the visitor book or leave a small token of their passage.

Consider documenting your experience: journal entries, photographs, or a simple log of daily distances and observations. These become invaluable memories and may inspire others to walk the route themselves.

Best Practices

Start Early and Finish Early

Begin your walk at sunrise whenever possible. The morning light on the chalk downs is breathtaking, and the trails are cooler and less crowded. Aim to reach your overnight stop by 4:00 PM to allow time for rest, dinner, and preparation for the next day. This rhythm prevents fatigue and reduces the risk of getting caught in darkness on remote sections.

Hydrate and Fuel Strategically

Chalk landscapes are deceptively arid. Even on cool days, you can lose over a liter of fluid per hour through sweat. Drink small amounts frequently—every 20–30 minutes—not just when you feel thirsty. Carry electrolyte tablets or powder to maintain mineral balance. Eat small snacks every 90 minutes: nuts, dried apricots, cheese, and whole-grain crackers provide sustained energy without causing digestive discomfort.

Train for Elevation and Uneven Terrain

The South Downs Link is not a flat walk. It features over 1,500 meters of cumulative ascent. Train for at least 6–8 weeks before your trip with hill walks, stair climbing, and loaded backpack hikes. Focus on strengthening your quads, calves, and core. Practice walking on gravel, mud, and rocky paths to simulate trail conditions.

Use the “Two-Point Rule” for Navigation

When navigating, always identify two visible landmarks ahead of you—a church spire, a distinctive tree, a hilltop. Walk toward them. Once you reach them, pick two more. This method prevents disorientation and keeps you on course without constant map-checking.

Travel Light, But Be Prepared

Overpacking is a common mistake. You don’t need extra clothes, luxury items, or multiple cameras. Focus on essentials: shelter, warmth, water, food, and navigation. A lightweight tarp and bivy sack can replace a heavy tent if you’re camping. Every ounce counts when you’re walking 10+ miles daily.

Adopt a “Leave No Trace” Ethic

The South Downs is a fragile ecosystem. Chalk grassland supports over 300 plant species and rare insects. Avoid shortcuts, even if the path looks worn. Stay on the established trail. If you see litter, pick it up—even if it’s not yours. Your actions set an example for others.

Engage with the Local Culture

Many villages along the route have centuries-old traditions. In Alfriston, the annual “Cuckmere Festival” celebrates local music and art. In Selborne, the Gilbert White Museum hosts talks on natural history. Attend a village pub quiz, sample local ales, or chat with farmers—they’ll often share stories and tips you won’t find in guidebooks.

Monitor the Weather Relentlessly

Weather on the South Downs changes faster than in most regions. A clear morning can turn to fog or rain by afternoon. Check the Met Office forecast daily, especially for wind speed and visibility. If thunderstorms are predicted, postpone your walk. Lightning on exposed chalk ridges is extremely dangerous.

Walk with Purpose, Not Pace

Don’t race to finish. The South Downs Link is not a competition. Slow down. Pause at viewpoints. Listen to the wind in the grass. Watch the hawks circle above. The trail rewards patience. The most memorable moments often come when you stop moving and simply be present.

Tools and Resources

Official Maps and Guides

The definitive resource for the South Downs Link is the OS Explorer Map 122 and 123, published by Ordnance Survey. These 1:25,000 scale maps show every footpath, gate, and contour with precision. Pair them with the Ramblers Association’s South Downs Link Guide, a 96-page booklet with detailed descriptions, photos, and historical notes for each section.

Digital Navigation Apps

Use ViewRanger (now Komoot) or Gaia GPS with offline maps. Both apps allow you to download the official South Downs Link GPX track. Komoot’s route planning tool lets you customize daily stages, estimate walking times, and locate nearby amenities. AllTrails also has user-submitted logs and photos, though verify them against official sources.

Books and Literature

“The South Downs Way and the South Downs Link” by David H. H. Williams offers the most comprehensive historical and geographical analysis. For literary inspiration, read Gilbert White’s “The Natural History of Selborne”—a foundational text in British naturalism that captures the spirit of the landscape you’re walking through.

Online Communities and Forums

Join the Ramblers Forum (ramblers.org.uk) and search for “South Downs Link” threads. Experienced walkers share real-time updates on path conditions, closures, and weather. Facebook groups like “South Downs Walkers United” are also active and responsive. Avoid relying on generic hiking forums—stick to UK-specific communities for accurate advice.

Local Visitor Centers

Before you start, visit the Eastbourne Visitor Centre and the South Downs National Park Authority Office in Petersfield. Both provide free printed maps, current trail advisories, and contact details for local landowners. They can also advise on public transport options to and from the trailheads.

Public Transport and Logistics

Getting to Eastbourne is easy via train from London Victoria or Brighton. From Winchester, direct trains run to London Waterloo. Consider using Trainline or National Rail Enquiries to book tickets in advance. For luggage transfers, services like Baggage Transfer UK can move your pack between overnight stops—ideal for multi-day walkers who want to travel light.

Emergency and Safety Resources

Save these numbers in your phone:

• 999 for emergency services
• 101 for non-emergency police
• South Downs National Park Ranger Line: 01730 888500
• Mountain Rescue (for remote areas): 01730 888500

Always inform someone of your itinerary. Text them your daily plans and check in each night. If you’re walking alone, consider carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) like the Garmin inReach Mini 2.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah, 52, Retired Teacher—Completed in 5 Days

Sarah walked the South Downs Link alone in May, using a lightweight pack and staying in B&Bs. She started each day at 7:00 AM and finished by 4:00 PM. “I didn’t know what to expect,” she says. “I thought it would be just hills and views. But the silence between Alfriston and Plaistow—it was like walking through time. I saw a red kite circling above Cissbury Ring, and an old farmer in Fittleworth gave me a cup of tea and told me about the Roman road beneath our feet. I cried when I reached Winchester. Not from tiredness—from awe.”

Example 2: Mark and Lisa, 38 and 36, Couple—Completed in 4 Days

Mark and Lisa trained for months and used a luggage transfer service. “We wanted to do it fast but not rush,” Lisa explains. “We booked the first two nights in Alfriston and Selborne, then stayed in a converted barn near Liss. The hardest part was Section 2—my knees were screaming. But the views from the top of Jevington Hill? Worth every step. We had a pint in the Plaistow Arms and felt like we’d earned it.”

Example 3: James, 19, University Student—Completed in One Day

James, a geography student, walked the entire route in 14 hours with friends. “We started at dawn, ate energy gels every hour, and didn’t stop except for photos. We were exhausted, but we saw the sunrise over the Seven Sisters and the sunset behind Winchester Cathedral. It was the most intense day of my life. I’ve never felt so connected to a place.”

Example 4: The Wilson Family—Parents and Two Teens, Completed in 6 Days

The Wilsons took their 15- and 17-year-old daughters on a family adventure. “We made it educational,” says David Wilson. “We had the kids identify plants using a field guide. We read Gilbert White’s letters at his house. We even found a fossil in a streambed near Fittleworth. It wasn’t just a walk—it was a history lesson with boots on.”

FAQs

Is the South Downs Link suitable for beginners?

The South Downs Link is not recommended for absolute beginners. It requires good fitness, experience with long-distance walking, and basic navigation skills. However, walkers with moderate experience can complete it in sections. Start with the Eastbourne to Alfriston leg (8 miles) to test your readiness.

Can I cycle the South Downs Link?

No. The South Downs Link is designated as a footpath only. Many sections are narrow, steep, or pass through farmland where cycling is prohibited. Bicycles are not permitted on the official route.

Are there water sources along the route?

There are very few reliable water sources. Streams are seasonal and often polluted by livestock. Carry all the water you need—minimum 2 liters per person per day. Some villages have public taps, but don’t rely on them.

Is wild camping allowed?

Wild camping is illegal in England without landowner permission. Use designated campsites or book accommodation in advance. The National Trust occasionally allows overnight stays at Cissbury Ring—book through their website.

What’s the best time of year to walk the South Downs Link?

April to June and September to October offer the best weather and conditions. Avoid July and August due to heat and crowds. Winter walks are possible but require extra preparation for cold, wet conditions.

Do I need a permit to walk the South Downs Link?

No permit is required. The route uses public rights of way and is open to all. However, respect private land and follow the Countryside Code.

How do I get to the start and end points?

Eastbourne Station is served by Southern Rail from London and Brighton. Winchester Station has direct trains from London Waterloo. Use Trainline or National Rail Enquiries to plan your journey.

Can I walk the South Downs Link with a dog?

Yes, but dogs must be kept on a lead near livestock and in protected areas. Many farmers are tolerant, but not all. Always carry a leash and clean-up bags.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stop immediately. Do not panic. Use your map and compass to reorient. Look for landmarks. If you’re still unsure, retrace your steps to the last known point. Call the South Downs National Park Ranger Line if needed. Never continue blindly.

Is the South Downs Link wheelchair accessible?

No. The route includes steep gradients, uneven surfaces, stiles, and gates. It is not suitable for wheelchairs or mobility scooters. However, some sections of the South Downs Way near Eastbourne have accessible paths.

Conclusion

The South Downs Link is more than a walking route—it is a passage through time, a quiet meditation on nature, and a testament to the enduring beauty of England’s countryside. Unlike the crowded trails of the Lake District or the rugged peaks of Snowdonia, this path offers something rarer: intimacy. The silence between the hills, the scent of wild thyme after rain, the distant chime of a church bell echoing across a valley—these are the moments that linger long after your boots are hung up.

Walking the South Downs Link demands preparation, respect, and presence. It is not a challenge to be conquered, but a journey to be felt. Whether you complete it in a single day or over a week, you will carry its lessons with you: the value of stillness, the resilience of the land, and the quiet dignity of walking with purpose.

As you stand at the west front of Winchester Cathedral, looking back at the miles you’ve walked, you won’t remember the blisters or the steep climbs. You’ll remember the light on the chalk, the whisper of the wind through the grass, and the profound sense of belonging that only comes from moving slowly through a landscape that has witnessed centuries of human footsteps—and still welcomes you.

Go now. Lace up. Step forward. The South Downs Link is waiting.