Countryside

The hilly nature of much of the district prevents development and the district council is careful about encroachment of towns and villages on the area of outstanding natural beauty that surrounds these communities.

Splendid views can be enjoyed along the South Downs Way as well as from the extensive network of footpaths that cross the district. There are also a number of town trails and guided walks available.

South Downs Way

A 160 km long distance trail from Petersfield in Hampshire to Beachy Head at Eastbourne, this path enters the District at the Ditchling Beacon beauty spot and leaves at Firle Beacon. The route is well signposted and can be joined in the district at Southease.

Seaford Head Nature Reserve

Covering 303 acres of cliff top and downland there are splendid views of the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs and of the serpentine coils of the River Cuckmere below. Areas of chalk, grassland, salt marsh and shingle spit give a diversity of habitats for wildlife, especially birds. Access to the reserve is on foot over Seaford Head from The Esplanade or by car via Chyngton Way in Seaford.

Seven Sisters Country Park

Each cliff of the Seven Sisters has its own name: Haven Brow, Short Brow, Rough Brow, Brass Point, Flagstaff Point, Barly's Brow and Went Hill Brow. The 280 hectares of chalk cliffs, open chalk grassland and Cuckmere Estuary are managed by the South Downs Joint Committee and form the country park. An 18th century barn at Exceat Farm provides an interpretation centre and a variety of recreational activities; walking, canoeing, cycling are available.

Ditchling Common Country Park

Covering 188 acres of common, the park supports a variety of wildlife which can be seen from the circular nature trail starting from the car park. Reed Buntings are common by the stream and fish in the lake include carp, perch and roach. In spring bluebells and wood anemones carpet the common. These are followed by glorious yellow gorse in May and in summer dragonflies abound over the water. Ditchling Common Country Park is managed by East Sussex County Council.

Stoneywish Nature Reserve

On the outskirts of Ditchling, Stoneywish centres around a former dairy farm. The 50 acre park has picnic areas and nature trails, children's play areas and a cafe. Former farm buildings house exhibitions on rural life and local history. A variety of birds and animals can be seen in their natural habitat and there is a pets' corner in the farmyard.

Telephone +44 01273 843498

Lewes District Council owns and manages a number of wildlife areas and nature reserves throughout the district.

 

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