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🌳South Downs National Park
The South Downs National Park spans over 1,600 square kilometres of stunning chalk hills, ancient woodland, and dramatic coastline. It's a fantastic outdoor destination for families, offering countless opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Popular spots include the Seven Sisters cliffs, Devil's Dyke, and the market towns of Lewes and Midhurst.
- **Highlights:** Seven Sisters Country Park (with a playground and café), Kingley Vale ancient yew forest, and the South Downs Way (a long-distance trail with family-friendly sections).
- **Ages:** Suitable for all ages; pushchairs can manage some flatter routes, but steeper trails may require baby carriers.
- **Facilities:** Visitor centres at Midhurst, Seven Sisters, and Devil's Dyke offer interactive exhibits, maps, and often have toilets, cafés, and picnic areas. Free entry; parking charges apply at many car parks (typically £5–8/day).
- **Practical Tips:** Bring sturdy footwear, layers for changeable weather, and plenty of snacks. Check the official website for family events like guided walks and mini-gardening workshops.
Travel tips
Wear sturdy footwear for uneven terrain
The park has varied terrain with chalk hills and woodland paths. Sturdy walking boots or trainers are essential, especially on steeper sections.
Layer up for changeable weather
Chalk downlands can be exposed and windy. Bring layers you can add or remove, plus a waterproof jacket even on sunny-looking days.
Check which routes suit your pushchair
Flatter sections accommodate pushchairs, but steeper trails need baby carriers instead. Plan your route in advance using visitor centre maps.
Pack generous snacks and water
Distances between facilities can be substantial. Bring more snacks than you think you'll need, plus plenty of water for all ages.
Visit Seven Sisters Country Park for all-in-one facilities
This spot has a playground, café, toilets, and picnic areas. Ideal for families wanting amenities without leaving the park.
Toilet facilities are at visitor centres and main spots
Toilet access is concentrated at visitor centres and attractions like Seven Sisters. Plan toilet stops before heading onto quieter trails.
Start early to avoid afternoon crowds
Popular spots like Seven Sisters and Devil's Dyke fill up by mid-morning. Arrive early for easier parking and quieter walks.
Explore Kingley Vale yew forest for something different
An ancient woodland with atmospheric surroundings. A quieter alternative to busier spots, though ground can be muddy.
Use visitor centres for maps and directions
Centres at Midhurst, Seven Sisters, and Devil's Dyke offer free maps and expert advice on family-friendly routes. Worth a quick stop.
Budget for parking at main car parks
Expect to pay £5–8 per day at popular locations. Some smaller car parks may be free; check ahead on the official website.
Check for family events and guided walks
The park runs guided walks and mini-gardening workshops throughout the year. Visit the official website to see what's on during your trip.
Baby changing available at main visitor centres
Midhurst, Seven Sisters, and Devil's Dyke centres are likely to have baby changing facilities, but smaller locations may not.
Plan realistic walk times with young children
With stops for snacks, photos, and exploring, expect to cover less ground than you might normally. Build in extra time.
Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting
The park is excellent for spotting birds and wildlife. Binoculars make spotting more exciting and engaging for children.
Suit to older kids and teenagers too
The South Downs Way has longer sections perfect for older children and teens wanting a proper hiking challenge.
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Nearby places
The Sculpture Park
10.3 miSet in 10 acres of beautiful woodland and gardens, The Sculpture Park displays over 600 contemporary and modern sculptures, with works by Henry Moore, Damien Hirst, and many others. It's a wonderfully interactive experience for children, who can touch most exhibits (except fragile ones). The park features a dedicated children's play area with wooden climbing frames, a storytelling chair, and a mini maze. There are plenty of picnic benches and a café serving hot and cold drinks, cakes, and light lunches. Paths are pushchair and wheelchair friendly, though some areas can get muddy after rain (wellies recommended). Highlights include the 'Giant Faces', the 'Burning Man' sculpture, and the 'Dinosaur Corner'. Allow at least 2-3 hours.
Frensham Great Pond and Common
11.5 miFrensham Great Pond and Common is a vast area of open heathland, woodland, and a large freshwater pond in Surrey. It's a perfect spot for families to enjoy outdoor adventures without spending a penny on entry. - **Pond fun**: The pond is a popular spot for paddling, dog swimming, and picnicking along the sandy beach. Lifeguards are not present, so parents must supervise children closely. - **Walking & exploring**: Miles of easy trails through heath and forest, great for buggies and little legs. Look out for rare wildlife like Dartford warblers and sand lizards. - **Facilities**: Free parking (charges apply at busy times), basic toilets, and a seasonal kiosk selling ice creams and hot drinks. No playground, but plenty of space for ball games and den building. - **Practical tips**: Bring waterproofs and spare clothes – kids love getting muddy or wet! The common can be exposed, so sun cream and windproof layers are useful. Arrive early on sunny weekends to secure parking.
Birdworld
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