The national park, renowned for its scenic beauty, offers a range of walks to suit all tastes and energy levels.
Stanmer Park, one of the key gateways to the national park and looks gorgeous at Christmas, is a haven for history enthusiasts with its church, village and manor house.
Allison Thorpe, access and recreation lead, enjoying a Christmas walk with Alfie. (Image: South Downs National Park Authority)
The restored walled garden, One Garden, is a must-see, particularly during the festive season.
A 5.5 mile circular route through Stanmer Woods can be found here, home to old and gnarled beech trees.
Arundel, rich in history and well-served by train, is another excellent walking spot.
According to the park’s walking leaflet, options include a four-mile walk around Swanbourne Lake and the River Arun, or a seven-mile walk through Arundel Park and South Stoke, along the Monarch’s Way, a historic route associated with Charles II’s escape from England after defeat in 1651.
For those seeking tranquillity without the challenge of steep hills, the Iping and Stedham Miles Without Stiles route offers scenic views.
The 1.25-mile circuit, suitable for people with restricted mobility, starts at Iping and Stedham Common, a nature reserve managed by Sussex Wildlife Trust, and takes about 30 minutes to complete.
West Walk, near Fareham, is an excellent option for families, with hardy surfaced paths winding their way between tall pine trees and a fun adventure woodland play area for the children.
For those who prefer leaving the car at home, Haslemere, and Liphook Railway Stations, on the main London line, offer access to the South Downs.
Chapel Common Heathland on a winter’s day. (Image: South Downs National Park Authority)
These stations are the starting points for routes that incorporate long sections of the Serpent Trail, which ‘snakes’ its way 64 miles from Haslemere to Petersfield, showcasing the heathland habitat and landscape of the greensand hills.
These routes feature short steep climbs and the heathlands of Marley, Lynchmere, Stanley and Chapel commons, as well as the dramatic ancient woodland of Rake Hanger.
A national park spokesperson said: “Wherever you go this Christmas, remember to care for this stunning landscape by not dropping litter, picking up dog poo, keeping dogs on leads around livestock and, of course, remember to enjoy yourself and make some memories.”