All posts by jefftravis

Bees bouncing back in South Downs National Park with new wildflower havens

August 18th, 2022

The South Downs are alive with the beauty of wildflowers and buzzing bees this summer, thanks to the success of an inspiring nature project. Bee Lines is going from strength to strength, with the South Downs National Park Trust giving 11 grants in recent months to create new wildflower oases at farms, community fields, recreation […]

New meadow in South Downs explores impact of climate change

August 15th, 2022

A drought-tolerant experimental meadow has been introduced at one of the National Park’s horticultural attractions to learn more about the impact of climate change. As the UK records its highest temperatures on record and officially declared a drought, it seems timely that West Dean Gardens, near Chichester, has created a meadow that is covered in […]

Calls for national ban on sale of disposable barbecues

August 15th, 2022

The Chief Executive of the South Downs National Park Authority has called for a national ban on the sale of disposable barbecues. Trevor Beattie welcomed the move by major retailers to withdraw disposable barbecues from sale, but said more measures were needed to help protect landscape, wildlife and people. He said: “We need a national […]

Explore the South Downs National Park in new walking festival

August 15th, 2022

“The Downs…too much for one pair of eyes, enough to float a whole population in happiness.” Poignant words from the great Virginia Woolf, who took lots of opportunities to express admiration for open downland and its many streams and heaths. There’s the perfect chance to explore the picturesque countryside around one of the National Park’s […]

South Downs estate unveils new experiences for visitors

August 15th, 2022

A huge refurbishment at one of the National Park’s largest wine-producing estates has been completed with the launch of new visitor facilities. Wiston Estate, in West Sussex, is now open to the public with the launch of Chalk Restaurant and a new winery. The renovation project was recently given a “Highly Commended” Award from the […]