The new ‘miles without stiles route’ is ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels.
It includes a new pedestrian bridge over a potentially boggy stretch, allowing walkers to explore the winter wonderland of Iping and Stedham Common with its mists, frost-covered heaths and, if you’re lucky, the scratchy call of a Dartford warbler.
Miles without stiles routes have been specially created as gentle journeys that are suitable for people with limited mobility, including wheelchair users, families with push chairs, dog walkers and less agile walkers.
Supported by funding from Gatwick Airport, Iping and Stedham is the seventh route to be added in the National Park, with others exploring forests, downland and coast.
Allison Thorpe, who leads access and recreation for the National Park, said: “Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll with the children and grandparents, a high-octane hike, or a romantic ramble, there’s something for everyone in the South Downs National Park this festive season.
“One of our big focuses is increasing accessibility, including for people with disabilities and families who may not want to negotiate stiles, so we’re really excited to launch this new route at Iping and Stedham.
“Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be quite hectic. Just taking a couple of hours to escape and connect with nature in the South Downs can do wonders for your wellbeing!
“If it’s a clear evening, you could always try a moonlit stroll at one of our 10 Dark Sky Discovery sites and take some images for our astrophotography competition which has a top prize of £100 this year!
“As always, leave no trace and do keep dogs on leads around livestock.”
For more ideas on walks in the National Park please visit www.southdowns.gov.uk/get-active/on-foot/
For all the Miles Without Stiles routes, visit www.southdowns.gov.uk/all-abilities/miles-without-stiles/ These routes have been supported by funding from Gatwick Airport.
Here Allison shares some of her favourite wintery walks in the South Downs National Park:
1. Alison
Allison Thorpe, Access and Recreation Lead, enjoying a walk with Alfie Photo: SDNP
2. Iping and Stedham Miles Without Stiles, West Sussex
The route starts in the car park of Iping and Stedham Common, a nature reserve managed by Sussex Wildlife Trust and one of the best examples of lowland heath in the National Park. The 1.25 mile/ 2km circuit is suitable for people with restricted mobility, including all-terrain mobility scooters and families with pushchairs. Typically takes 30 mins to complete. Why not visit the historic market town of Midhurst after for some well deserved refreshment. Photo: SDNP
3. Stansted Forest, West Sussex (Allison pictured here)
Stansted Park stands in 1,800 acres of some of the most scenic parkland and ancient forest you’re likely to see in the south of England. In the medieval period the Earls of Arundel had a hunting lodge on the site, surrounded by a vast forested area used for hunting and timber production. Changes in ownership over the years resulted in a new house being built in the 17th century when the formal gardens were laid out. In 1804 the estate was sold and it’s said the new owner replanted the whole site, including the forest. 1900 saw the destruction, by fire, of the Elizabethan house and all its historical records. The new house was built in 1901 on the same footprint and since 1983 the House and Estate have been owned by Stansted Park Foundation, an independent charitable trust set up by the 10th Earl of Bessborough. Visitors can tour the house or walk the walled gardens enjoying the various attractions the park has to offer, including the maze, miniature railway, arboretum and pottery studio. Pick up local produce at the Farm Shop, visit the Garden Centre or stop for tea and hearty cake at the Pavilion Tearoom. Photo: SDNP
4. Steyning and Bramber, West Sussex
The Bramber Miles without Stiles route is a real gem. The historic village of Bramber with its medieval castle (pictured) is quintessentially West Sussex in nature. Neighbouring Steyning, Bramber is also the start and end point of a Miles without Stiles route – trails suitable for people with impaired mobility, wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs. The linear ‘there and back’ route is 2.2 miles in length and follows the Downs Link path along the River Adur. On a winter’s day you can see flocks of Canada geese flying in formation up and down the river. Steyning is a town rich in history. Once a port on the River Adur, it was prized by the Normans for its inland location and ease for accessing the Channel. From Steyning, you can easily access the South Downs Way, where you can follow our seven mile self-guided walk. By following the trail westwards, you will soon come upon Chanctonbury Ring, one of the highest points in the National Park. Upon returning to Steyning, finish up at Victoria’s Sponge for a cake and a cuppa or grab a refresher in the White Horse Inn. Photo: JPIMedia