Lace up your walking shoes; it's National Walking Day! The perfect opportunity to embrace the outdoors and truly connect with nature. We are lucky enough at Elite Hotels to have beautiful landscapes right on our doorstep, as we are nestled within the heart of England's most picturesque locations. Whether you are a local looking for your next hike or discovering our areas for the first time, here are our favourite walks in the South East of England.
The South Downs Way
The South Downs Way is one of the most iconic trails in the UK, offering sweeping views of rolling hills, chalk cliffs, and the English Channel. For those who have tackled the seven sisters, the end of your hike is a true reward. After a day of walking, you’ll find yourself descending the final stretch of the South Downs Way into Eastbourne, where The Grand will greet you for a welcome rest. The full route is 100 miles long, but for something to achieve in just a day, the Alfriston checkpoint is accessible via the local coaster bus route.
The Ashdown Forest
A setting out of a storybook...quite literally! Famously known as the home of Winnie the Pooh, the forest is an unmissable destination full of woodland and wildlife. Boasting more than 25 mapped routes and 6,500 acres to explore, this scenic landscape ensures you’ll never tire of its ever-changing beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Ashdown Park is the perfect starting point for many forest walks, whether around our estate or beyond.
Hampshire's Countryside
Tylney Hall's location is the perfect starting point for a countryside walk. With local routes enriched with natural beauty, vibrant wildflowers, and historic landmarks along the way. A circular route around Hook and Rotherwick takes you to explore ancient woodlands and charming market villages all in one outing. For a longer ramble, footpaths can be found down our 14-mile-long vista! Hampshire's countryside perfectly lends itself to an afternoon stroll, an adventurous hike, or anything in between!
Our Estates
For those unsure about straying too far, our immediate surroundings offer scenic opportunities to get some fresh air. In Eastbourne, stroll the promenade and listen to the crashing waves. At Ashdown Park, our signposted routes will take you on a short journey to our top fields, where you can enjoy a view back to the Mansion House and Chapel. And at Tylney Hall, discover wildlife across our two water gardens. Our concierge teams can point you in the right direction for staying around our estates.
So, where is your next adventure?