Places to eat near South Downs National Park, West Sussex
Enjoy a delicious, locally-sourced, home-cooked meal at one of our restaurants in and around West Sussex, close to popular attractions like the Goodwood Estate, Hever Castle, West Wittering Beach or the South Downs National Park.
The Royal Oak
Boasting 200 years of history and nestled away near the South Downs National Park is The Royal Oak. Kids and dogs are welcome at The Royal Oak, and the menu, chock-full of pub favourites, has something for everyone, with gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options available for all dietary requirements.
The Old House Inn
Tucked away in the delightful village of Copthorne in West Sussex is The Old House Inn. Behind the bar you’ll find a selection of award-winning beer from our own Butcombe Brewery, and you’ll notice that our menus and daily specials also feature our own ales where possible – like our Butcombe Gold beer-battered fish and chips. We also have vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options available, ensuring that there is something for everyone on the menu.
Welldiggers Arms
With beautiful countryside scenery on our doorstep, and a wealth of attractions nearby like South Downs National Park, The Welldiggers Arms is the perfect spot for delicious food and thirst-quenching drinks. Our all-day food offer focuses on seasonal, locally sourced produce and hearty pub classics, with plenty of our award-winning Butcombe beer available to wash it down.
The White Horse
Set amongst the foothills of the South Downs National Park and just moments from the remarkable Goodwood Estate, you will find The White Horse. A favourite with locals and visitors alike, our ever-changing seasonal menus feature produce from local suppliers, along with a cracking range of cask ale, craft beer, cider, fine wines and classic cocktails.
A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF South Downs National Park
The defining feature of the South Downs is its undulating chalk hills, which extend from the Itchen Valley in the west to Beachy Head in the east. These rolling hills, sculpted over millennia, offer breathtaking vistas that change with the seasons. Whether you’re hiking along the South Downs Way, cycling through quaint villages, or simply enjoying a leisurely picnic, every vantage point reveals a new perspective of this enchanting landscape.
Rich Biodiversity
Within the folds of the South Downs, a rich tapestry of flora and fauna thrives. Ancient woodlands, such as the majestic Queen Elizabeth Country Park and the sprawling Stansted Forest, are home to oak, beech, and chestnut trees, providing a haven for rare species of birds, insects, and mammals. The chalk grasslands, with their vibrant wildflowers and rare orchids, burst into life during the spring and summer months, attracting butterflies and bees in abundance.
Outdoor Adventures
For adventure seekers, the South Downs offers a myriad of outdoor activities. Hiking enthusiasts can tackle a section of the South Downs Way, a 160-kilometer trail that traverses the length of the national park. Cyclists can explore a network of scenic routes, including the Meon Valley Trail and the Cuckoo Trail, which wind through picturesque countryside and historic market towns. Horseback riding, rock climbing, and paragliding are also popular pursuits for those seeking an adrenaline rush amidst nature’s splendour.
Cultural Heritage
Beyond its natural beauty, the South Downs boasts a rich cultural heritage spanning thousands of years. Ancient hill forts, such as Old Winchester Hill and Cissbury Ring, offer glimpses into the region’s prehistoric past, while medieval churches and historic manor houses dot the landscape, revealing the stories of generations past. The charming villages of Alfriston, Midhurst, and Petworth beckon visitors with their quaint architecture, cosy pubs, and artisanal shops, providing a glimpse into traditional English country life.
Conservation and Sustainability
As a designated national park, the South Downs is not only a place of recreation but also a stronghold for conservation and sustainability. Efforts to preserve and enhance the park’s natural beauty are ongoing, with initiatives focused on habitat restoration, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable land management. Visitors are encouraged to minimise their environmental impact by practising responsible tourism, including adhering to designated trails, minimizing waste, and respecting wildlife habitats.
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