South Downs

The South Downs are the chalk hills which run from eastern Hampshire to Beachy Head in East Sussex.

Pretty villages such as Alresford, Cheriton, Chilcomb and Corhampton can be found on the Downs in the SO postcode area. Watercress is a local speciality crop and watercress beds can be found at Alresford and Warnford. The Watercress Line starts at Alresford.

At Bishops Waltham, the remains of the Bishop's Palace are worth a visit. This used to be where the Bishops of Winchester lived until it was destroyed by Cromwell in 1644.

Beacon Hill to the west of Warnford is a National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Near to Winchester you will find Marwell Zoo, a favourite attraction for families with its wildlife. The Marwell Preservation Trust is now home to over 730 mammals from all over the world.

For more information about the South Downs, visit the South Downs website.