Buses: Get on Board

Brighton & Hove Buses the only way to travel, This week: South Downs National Park

The South Downs National Park spans over 1600km of vibrant wildlife, picturesque views, market towns and expansive countryside. From the spectacular chalk cliffs of Seven Sisters to the perfect panoramas of Ditchling Beacon, the park has something to offer any visitor that travels its landscape.

The Park is accessible at various points using buses – Brighton & Hove Bus Company route 2, 12, 29, 77, 79 to name a few. Metrobus 270, 271 and 273 also pass through the Park. They also cross the path of the South Downs Way.
There are plenty of things to see in the Park but some of the highlights are:
Devil’s Dyke – aside from the amazing views of the South Downs, Devil’s Dyke also contains ruined ramparts of an Iron Age hill fort and the remains of a Victorian funfair. And on the right day, you might see some adventurous hang-gliders float through the sky above the valley (or perhaps you might join them yourself!). Take route 77 (buses.co.uk/77 for full times). The South Downs Way passes nearby so for those walkers out there it could be just the start of a day out rambling. There is a pub right by the Dyke and Route 77 drops you off at the car park next to the pub.

Ditchling Beacon – close to the South Downs Way and is the highest point in all of East Sussex, giving a spectacular 360 degree view from its summit. Its namesake comes from the fact that it was once a warning beacon, ready to light at times of imminent invasion. Take route 79 at weekends and public holidays (buses.co.uk/79 for full times).
The Seven Sisters Country Park – named after the spectacular chalk cliffs that border the English Channel, is also located within the South Downs National Park and provides a combination of coastal views, river runs and lush grassland for a truly scenic nature experience. There’s no shortage of countryside to explore from and vibrant wildlife to examine while you journey on forest and beach walks. Aside from the traditional village pubs, there are numerous family attractions and facilities, including camping and canoeing along the Cuckmere Haven Valley. Catch a Coaster 12 to get there (buses.co.uk/12 for full times).