South Downs Way plus Storrington, Parham Park and Amberley Castle - 12 miles

Join us for a stunning traverse of the South Downs ridge, offering breathtaking views and rich historical landmarks.

We begin our journey at Kithurst Hill car park, a high vantage point on the South Downs ridge. From here, enjoy panoramic views over the rolling countryside, with the English Channel visible on clear days. 

Heading east, we make a steep descent into Storrington, a charming village nestled at the foot of the Downs. Storrington has a rich history and the picturesque St Mary's Church, which dates back to the 12th century.

From Storrington, we enter the grounds of Parham House, a magnificent Elizabethan manor set within a sprawling deer park. Built in the late 16th century, Parham House boasts exquisite interiors, including rare tapestries and fine woodwork. 

Continuing our journey, we arrive at Amberley Castle, a remarkable fortress with over 900 years of history. Originally built as a bishop’s residence, it later became a fortified stronghold. Today, it serves as a luxury hotel, we can still admire its medieval walls, portcullis, and stunning gardens. 

We then ascend back to the South Downs ridge, where we are rewarded with uninterrupted views stretching across the national park. This section of the walk follows part of the South Downs Way, a long-distance trail that spans 100 miles from Winchester to Eastbourne. Along the way, look out for ancient burial mounds, grazing sheep, and the occasional kestrel soaring overhead.