The Magic of the South Downs
The South Downs, known as the ‘gateway to England’ thanks to its prime position crowning the southeast coast, has for centuries inspired artists, writers and dreamers, alike.
Attracted by the picture perfect landscape of rolling hills, wooded heaths, blossoming fields, quaint country villages and the spectacular white chalk cliffs that look out to the English Channel.
For those who’ve ventured on the iconic South Downs Way, a 100 mile long stretch of natural beauty which runs from Winchester in Hampshire to Eastbourne in East Sussex, you will no doubt have felt the magic of the Downs.
As Virginia Woolf said in her diaries: "The Downs ... too much for one pair of eyes, enough to float a whole population in happiness." We want to share some of that happiness and appreciation for the Downs, so we asked local friends of the Grain Store Lewes, and some of our team, to reveal what makes the South Downs special to them.
Find out below why they hold the Downs close to their hearts. And if you’ve never been, come and visit us soon.
Beautiful Poppies on the South Downs filmed by Roland de Villiers, Shootlab.
“We love filming on the Downs, there is so much beauty and drama, from the wide open spaces to the intimate places where nature runs wild. It is a truly stunning landscape and we are so lucky to have it on our doorstep.””
No better place in the world
Ian Lock, Brighton-based Leadership Consultant, Executive Coach and Author
“Heading out onto the Downs for either a walk or a bike ride is always something to be savoured. There is something about the landscape that is always appealing. The rolling topography and views both of and from the Downs are spectacular and once you’re up on the top you can go east or west for a day’s excursion. Most days there is no better place in the world to be.”
An exhilarating yet calming landscape
Anni Townend, Founder of The Grain Store Lewes
“Living on the South Downs is the realisation of a dream I had since being a teenager - wanting to live somewhere that I don’t have to get in a car but can walk from my backyard straight into the countryside.
No matter the season or the day, the Downs offer something special simply by way of being there. They are a reminder of the changing seasons and the passing of time. I love to observe the growing of crops, the different cattle, wildlife and flowers.
My favourite thing to do is to walk to the top of the Downs and enjoy the breathtaking 360 degree views and I love the way that the Downs roll away at each side, all the way to the south coast. It is both exhilarating and calming.”
A space to savour the seasons
David Taylor, Farmer at Housedean Farm
“Farming on the Downs around The Grain Store is a great privilege and gives me great satisfaction – most of the time. As the year progresses the fields turn from yellow stubble to brown earth and then the new shoots of green. Winter sets in and the new plants of wheat and barley show little change until the warmth of spring and a little fertiliser brings everything back to life.
The green turns darker as the plants grow and then before you know it the crops are ripening and it's ready for the combine. Combining is probably the most satisfying time of year because it is the culmination of a year's work and investment.”
Exploring the South Downs by horseback
Becca Tennent, Manager and Housekeeper at The Grain Store Lewes
"Since graduating University in July 2019, I have completed my lifelong dream of buying my own horse. I have been a keen horse rider since the age of five (much to the despair of my parents), and have been lucky enough to grow up riding on the South Downs.
There is something magical about being able to explore on horseback, from a peaceful walk through woodland trails to an exhilarating gallop along the hilltops. Whilst out and about we have been lucky enough to encounter some amazing wildlife, including an inquisitive deer, and numerous red kites."
A place to reconnect with nature
Marisa Guthrie, Business Coach
“Never have I appreciated where I live more than during lockdown. I have the absolute privilege of walking out of my door straight onto the South Downs. For too long we have taken our natural landscapes for granted, but one of the positives of the Covid-19 pandemic has been re-connection with nature. My hope for the future is that this continues to grow.”
Your South Downs staycation awaits
We’re currently offering options for flexible bookings and cancellation for eligible summer 2020 bookings. Read our blog post for more information or contact the team.
Contact our team:
+44 (0)1273 713 339
business@thegrainstorelewes.com
Article by Katherine Murphy