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Tis the season to support local!



Tis the season to support local!

December 21, 2021

The South Downs is undoubtedly a treasure trove of local talent and artisanship.

Whether it be world-class sparkling wine, delectable locally-sourced food, or hand-made crafts, this region is a glorious grotto of potential gifts for all ages and interests.

As we’re in the midst of “golden quarter” for small and medium-sized businesses, our Enterprise team is encouraging people to shop locally if they can.

As well as lovely gifts you can wrap, there are also some incredible experiences in the National Park that would make great presents for loved ones.

Mark Alden, Enterprise Development Lead for the National Park, explains: “It goes without saying that it’s been a really tough time for businesses over the past 18 months with the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic.

“However, one of the positives has been the rise in support for local businesses and a renewed interest in local products, experiences and services.

“This is such an important time of the year for small businesses, so it’s our hope this enthusiasm to shop locally continues this Christmas and beyond.

“Local businesses really do play a vital role in our local economy and also the wellbeing of our communities.

“We’ve come up with a few fun suggestions of experiential gifts, playing on the 12 days of Christmas, but this is just a snapshot of what’s out there! We hope to inspire people to discover more of the amazing things on offer in the South Downs National Park.”

Twelve ideas for experiential Christmas gifts:

  1. Paddle the South Downs, breathing in the stunning views from Cuckmere Haven to Alfriston.
  2. Enjoy an evening under the stars at Iping Common, perhaps with a stay at Amberfold, Halfway Bridge Inn, or Night Pastures and eat or drink at Comestibles Deli or The Hamilton Arms’. More information here on Iping and Stedham Common.
  3. Enjoy some of the finest fizz in England, with this Sparkling South Downs treat for wine-lovers.
  4. Calling on angling enthusiasts! Enjoy a “Bait to Plate” experience with fly-fishing and dine at a chef’s table (pictured above)
  5. Walk in the steps of our ancestors exploring Black Down, the highest point and a hidden heathland treasure in the National Park.
  6. Come and explore the beautiful Pookles Farm in Hampshire as you’re taken on a wild foraging adventure!
  7. One for animal-lovers of all ages! Become a member of Marwell Wildlife and enjoy unlimited entry to the zoo.
  8.      Discover more about some of the finest craft workers and artists Britain has ever produced with tickets to Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft.
  9. Immerse yourself in the restorative power of the woods by enjoying this forest bathing experience.
  10. Step back in time and explore the Sussex Heritage Coast with this guided tour of Seven Sisters.
  11. If you love craft ale and want to know a bit more about how it’s done, why not book a guided tour of the 10 barrel steam-heated Langham Brewery?
  12. See a real working farm in action at Middle Farm in East Sussex. Don’t forget to try their infamous cider barn!

 

Many of these ideas are taken from “The National Park Experiences”, a unique collection of world-class experiences, across 10 National Parks in England. The South Downs Experiences give visitors the chance to learn more about nature and the heritage of the landscape, enjoying local food and drink from this treasured landscape. Please get in touch directly with operator through the links above if you are interested in booking any of the experiences.