Protecting the beauty of the Downs for over 100 years
Our Purpose
We are an independent organisation dedicated to protecting the South Downs. Through a programme of activities and engagement, we aim to promote the beauty of the South Downs so that all who live, work and visit may share our love for all it has to offer and support us in campaigning for its protection.
Activities
We organise a variety of events and walks in the South Downs throughout the year. Our events are open to members and non-members so why not see what’s coming up and we look forward to welcoming you at our next event.
Advocacy
We engage with local plans and neighbourhood development plans to help ensure a robust planning policy framework and comment on planning applications both within and adjacent to the Park that have the potential to affect its special qualities, to conserve and enhance the South Downs National Park.
Learning
We improve understanding and appreciation of the South Downs National Park’s special qualities by supporting all those wanting to expand their knowledge of the Downs from those in education to those who live or work in the Park.
Projects
We work in partnership with other organisations in and around the National Park on a series of vital projects. From nature recovery to installing viewing benches, to supporting school visits to the countryside, we aim to enhance and protect the beauty of the South Downs.
Become a Member
We are the only membership organisation dedicated to protecting the South Downs.
Upcoming Guided Walks
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Mid Sussex Meanders No.1
Thursday 23 April, 10:00 – 12:00 Distance: 4.5 miles Start: Ditchling Country Park Folders Lane, East Ditchling BN6 8SQ Ref: 135/ TQ337180 Route: Mid Sussex Border Path, Lockstrood Farm, Purchase Wood, Stubs Copse. Easy going, mostly flat, free car park at W3W ///scarves.fees.thrashed
NOTE: Guided walks are open to all members,
and non-members by invitation -
Broadmoor to Leith
Friday 8 May, 10:00 – 14:00 Distance: 6.5 miles Start: Broadmoor Car Park, Sheephouse Lane RH5 5JY Ref: OL146/ TQ133454 Route: Squire’s Great Wood, Coldharbour, Leith Hill, Wotton Common. Car park is at W3W ///stuff.sketch.moral
NOTE: Guided walks are open to all members,
and non-members by invitation
Make a donation
Help us to conserve and enhance the South Downs for generations to come with an online donation, or by leaving a legacy.
Latest News and Updates
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An exciting initiative to connect schoolchildren with the wonders of the Hampshire Downs returns for 2026. Last year more than 600 children benefitted from school trips and learning opportunities in…
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Walks Leader and Trustee David Taylor recently led an early morning walk on the South Downs looking for Brown Hares. The Norfolk Estate above Storrington and Amberley is a hotspot…
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We hear from Ian, walks leader, on his reflections on recently completing the Petworth Way LDW with several other FSD members this March. “The Walks Programme occasionally ventures beyond its…
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Despite more than 70 years of full legal protection, raptor persecution remains a serious and persistent wildlife crime. The Yorkshire Dales is one of the UK’s worst-affected areas, with 152…