Marking 50th anniversary of the South Downs Way

Marking 50th anniversary of the South Downs Way

March 13, 2023

Andrew Griffith MP joined Andy Gattiker from the National Park Authority to install a commemorative waymarker at the Amberley point of the South Downs Way, marking 50 years of the much-loved National Trail.

The 100-mile route runs along the chalk ridge of the South Downs and passes through 66 parishes.  The Amberley fingerpost was one of the last parish posts to be decorated with the 50th anniversary plaque and marks the end of the project.

On 15 July 1972 it was officially opened as the South Downs Way National Trail, making it the UK’s fifth national trail to be established and its first long-distance bridleway.

Amberley is one of the few points where walkers can access the trail by train (Amberley station, Arun Valley Line), making it an important gateway to the South Downs National Park.

Andy Gattiker, National Trails & Rights of Way Lead, said: 

“We couldn’t maintain the route without the help of dedicated volunteers, who get involved in surveying, practical work, helping at public events and administration, so a big thank you to them.

“We thought it would be a nice gesture for each of the parishes along the route to get a beautiful waymarker that can be attached to a fingerpost to celebrate 50 years.”

Andrew Griffith said: “It was a privilege to be invited to hang the final plaque in this commemorative series, and at such a beautiful spot. 

“The views from Amberley on the South Downs Way are majestic. We should all be incredibly proud to have such a wonderful and free amenity right on our doorsteps.”