The South Downs is one of the four area of chalk downland in the south of England, and extends from the east part of the county of Hampshire through the county of Sussex, and culminating in the dramatically high cliffs at Beachy Head.
The Downs covers an area of about 70 miles east to west by about 11 miles north to south, and is full of history. Archaeological evidence has revealed that people have lived on the Downs for thousands of years, and there are even remains from the Neolithic period.
The area is sparsely populated, apart from the long line of seaside towns at the bottom. It is a favourite area for walkers, and has one main long distance path going the entire length of the downs.
There are four river valleys cutting through the downs: the River Arun, River Adur, River Ouse and River Cuckmere. The highest point throughout the whole of the downs is Butser Hill, near to the town of Petersfield in Hampshire.
The area is covered by official Areas of Outstanding National Beauty (AONB) - the Sussex Downs AONB and the East Hampshire AONB.
There has also been recent talk of turning the area into a National Park, which is expected to take effect by 2011.The South Downs is definitely a popular place to visit, especially for walkers and people into the outdoors. It's also within very easy reach of many of the nearby coastal towns, making it ideal for day trips for anyone staying in the area.
The South Downs, England