All posts by jefftravis

Visit the South Downs Centre this summer!

July 30th, 2024

Find out what makes a National Park, why we’re an International Dark Sky Reserve and discover the wonders of a ruined castle that was once visited by Elizabeth I. The South Downs Centre will be opening on Saturdays throughout the summer holidays in August from 9am to 2.30pm. Our visitor area is crammed with interesting […]

History special: Why did Queen Mary I come to the South Downs?

July 29th, 2024

What is the link between Queen Mary I of England and the South Downs? Anooshka Rawden, Cultural Heritage Lead for the National Park, explains in this illuminating article. The South Downs landscape has witnessed many historical events. One of which was the procession of a queen to a controversial wedding… After a life that had […]

Communities in South Downs celebrate incredible climate action

July 29th, 2024

A wave of inspiring climate action has been kickstarted thanks to a groundbreaking lottery-backed initiative in the Ouse Valley. From scores of children learning to ride bikes, to new community vegetable gardens, climate hubs, river tours, volunteer training and energy-saving workshops, people across the Lewes, Seaford, Peacehaven and Newhaven areas have been busy doing their […]

Summer extravaganza comes to foot of Butser Hill

July 29th, 2024

One of the National Park’s most famous beauty spots will be hosting a fun summer show this month. Queen Elizabeth Country Park, at the foot of Butser Hill, the highest point on the South Downs chalk ridge, will be hosting The South Downs Show over the weekend of 10 and 11 August. There will be […]

Dame Prue Leith headlines South Downs Food Festival

July 29th, 2024

Did you know over 70 per cent of the National Park is farmland and there are more than 50 vineyards? With so many local producers, it’s no wonder that a festival has been organised to celebrate all the amazing food and drink on our doorstep! The South Downs Food Festival will take place over the […]