The top four most accessible spots in the South Downs
November 28, 2019
Did you know Tuesday 3 December is International Day of Disability?
Our ambition is to make the South Downs the UK’s most accessible National Park for people who live with mobility issues.
Work has started to create new ‘Miles without Stiles’ routes across our stunning landscape that offer easy access for people with limited mobility.
To mark International Day of Disability, we wanted to recommend five places in the National Park that are really accessible.
All of these trails and destinations are suitable for people with restricted mobility, wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs. Much of this work has been made possible by Gatwick Airport who are sponsoring our Miles Without Stiles initiative.
Here’s our top four destinations for you to enjoy:
Bramber, West Sussex
One for the history lovers!
The historic village of Bramber with its charming medieval castle is the starting point for this riverside route.
Running alongside the River Adur this route is set against the backdrop of the South Downs and offers some picture-perfect views. Learn more
Alice Holt Forest, Hampshire
Forming the most northerly gateway to the National Park, this former Royal forest is steeped in history as its famous oak trees were used to build Royal Navy warships in Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard.
Today it is a beautiful example of English woodland, with a wonderful Easy Access Trail.
The trail is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs and has an optional shortcut. Look out for the majestic Scots Pine! Learn more
Kingley Vale, West Sussex
One for the nature lovers!
Kingley Vale is a National Nature Reserve located 5km north west of Chichester.
Walking routes on the site have recently been upgraded with new accessible gates with a radar key for larger mobility scooters.
Rich in history, Kingley Vale is home to some of the oldest Yew trees in the country, with several thought to be more than 600 years old.
South Downs Centre, Midhurst, West Sussex
As well as being the home of the National Park Authority, the South Downs Centre in the heart of historic Midhurst is a community hub, offering a fascinating exhibition about the landscape, heritage and produce of this treasured area.
A great place to start your day in the South Downs. Open from Monday to Thursday from 9am to 5pm, Fridays 9am to 4.30pm and Saturdays and Bank Holidays (from April 19 to October 26, 2019) from 9am to 1pm.
Come and meet our friendly team and find out more about the National Park!