South Downs Expedtion Assessor Network ©

Site developed by Simon Whitmore

Site last updated 08/06/2010

The South Downs Expedition Assessor Network includes representatives of all the principal Operating Authorities and agencies who have an interest in young people in the outdoors, covering the South Downs National Park. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award South East Region fully supports the network and the work of its assessors.

The South Downs are characterised by rolling chalk grassland, deep dry valleys, and extensive views over the Weald to the north and the sea to the south.

The South Downs Way has the distinction of being Britain’s first long distance bridleway. Designated in 1972 the route runs for a distance of about 160km between Eastbourne and Winchester, the ancient capital of Britain.

One of the best features of the South Downs Way is the variety of scenery that is offers. In Hampshire, it generally passes through rolling farm land; the National Nature reserve at Old Winchester Hill in the Meon Valley, is probably the high point of this part of the route.  In West Sussex the route passes through some open grassland but much of the route here is well wooded, shady in summer and sheltered in winter. East Sussex has the most classic open downland, with views south to the sea and north to Ashdown Forest. The chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head are always impressive.  

The area is appropriate for expeditions on foot, cycle or horse. It is also worth exploring the possibility of undertaking a water expedition as the South Downs includes access to a number of tidal rivers.

New South Downs National Park Authority Members named.

Please remind your teams about littering as we are receiving several complaints.