Autumn adventures and active holidays in the South Downs National Park
The days are getting a little shorter, the nights a little longer and the air a little fresher. While we’re hoping for a few more glorious days of summer sunshine this year, there is no denying that soon autumn will be approaching.
Autumn is a particularly magical time to explore the South Downs National Park. The summer tourism has died down, there is a peace and stillness in the air, and you can bask in the glow of the golden leafy landscape.
For adventurers, active holidaymakers and outdoor enthusiasts, autumn may be the perfect time to indulge your wild side. The changing seasons offer new perspectives of the South Downs. Think sumptuous sunsets, rich rusty colours and cooler temperatures for your activities. And of course the darker nights make it all the more rewarding to cosy up indoors after an active day on the Downs.
From paragliding to cycling, we take a look at your pick of active holidays in the South Downs National Park. Adventure awaits.
Paragliding for a bird’s eye view of the Downs
Let’s start with the high adrenaline, high vantage option: paragliding. For those with a head for heights, there’s perhaps no better way to see the South Downs. Take in the rolling topography of the hills, which in autumn will flow like a patchwork quilt. And on a clear day, you will be able to gaze down to the white cliffs at Beachy Head and catch a glimpse of the English Channel.
There are two main paragliding companies nearby: Fly Sussex and Airworks. The latter offers paragliding from the hill directly opposite The Grain Store, so you don’t even need to go far from the nest.
Cycling and mountain biking
The 100-mile-long South Downs Way is fully accessible by bike and there are a wide variety of trails for all levels. From bridleways to country lanes and old railway routes including the Downs Link, Meon Valley Trail and Centurion Way.
South East Mountain Biking provides guided day rides, half-day, and evening rides or trips along the South Downs Way. They also offer E-MTB (electric mountain bike) coaching and E-Bike tours to meet the growing demand for assisted pedal power.
You can find more information on cycling in the South Downs Sustrans, a national cycling and walking charity in the UK.
Swimming and watersports
Dive straight into the action at Pells Pool, the UK’s oldest freshwater public lido. They recently extended their season to the end of October. Perfect for a sunny autumn day.
If you prefer wild swimming, there are options nearby at Tide Mills, Cuckmere Meanders and Barcombe Mills. And of course, East Sussex is home to many swim-friendly beaches at Brighton, Shoreham, Seaford and Camber. At Hove beach, near Brighton, check out Hove Lagoon for stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding and sailing.
Buzz Active provides all types of watersports including kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, sailing and windsurfing, among others. If you prefer to stay dry then they have a wide variety of land-based activities across their three sites in East Sussex.
Becca’s noble steed Oscar goes wild in the Downs
Horseriding
Grain Store Manager and Housekeeper Becca Tennent, is often out exploring the Downs with her horse Oscar and thinks it’s a unique and rewarding way to enjoy the landscape. She commented: “There is something magical about being able to explore on horseback. From a peaceful walk along woodland trails to an exhilarating gallop along the hilltops. While out and about we have been lucky to encounter some amazing wildlife including an inquisitive deer and numerous red kites.”
Some riding schools have unfortunately remained closed following the lockdown. However, we know that Glebe Field is open for business with lessons for adults and children.
Hiking, walking, strolling
One of 16 national trails in the UK, the South Downs Way is an iconic 100-mile-long stretch of natural beauty that has long attracted hikers. With varying terrain that includes ancient woodland, coastal paths, bridleways, quaint English villages and flowing fields, there’s something new to explore every day. Whether you want a challenging hill walk such as the Glynde and Mount Caburn Walk or a seaside stroll along the Heritage Coastal Trail, you can strap on your boots and get those steps in this autumn.
What’s more, there are exciting hiking paths that run directly from The Grain Store. Wake up and step out onto The Grain Store Circular Walk, a scenic 6 mile loop that passes Balsdean Bottom, one of the ‘lost villages’ of East Sussex. There’s also the more challenging 8.5 mile hike from Housedean Farm to Southease, which passes Monks House, once home to Virginia Woolf.
For our round-up of the top hikes accessible from The Grain Store Lewes see our blog: Day hikes and micro-adventures on the South Downs Way
Crunchy autumn walks on the South Downs Way
(Photo by Caroline Pocock)
More inspiration for things to do in East Sussex
Our plan your visit page has advice on things to do in Lewes and East Sussex, including advice for sporty days, rainy days, family days and more.
You may also find our recent blog helpful, revealing our pick of autumn activities in and around Lewes.
Book your South Downs autumn adventure
The Grain Store Lewes is the perfect place to enjoy the abundant activities and adventures available in the South Downs National Park. Enjoy our luxurious surroundings, wake up and step out straight into the adventure.
We have some remaining availability for autumn and winter 2020. Contact us for more information about booking your stay and your adventure holiday.