Friends of the South Downs is an independent charity founded in 1923 and the only membership organisation dedicated to conserving and enhancing the beauty and amenities of the South Downs.

Friends of the South Downs is an independent membership charity dedicated to protecting, enhancing and promoting the South Downs National Park. Founded in 1923, it is the only membership-based charity focused exclusively on safeguarding the natural beauty, wildlife, heritage, and public access and enjoyment of the South Downs.

The charity works to ensure that the National Park remains a thriving landscape for wildlife, local communities and future generations. It does this by:

• Landscape protection: the charity’s active Planning & Conservation committee review and comment on planning applications and development proposals that could affect the South Downs National Park
• Nature recovery: supporting conservation projects that help restore habitats, improve biodiversity, protect water resources and encourage wildlife recovery across the Downs
• Public access: working with partner organisations to improve access to the countryside and encourage people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the Downs
• Education and youth engagement: Funding and delivering projects that help children and young people learn about, experience and value the South Downs’ natural and cultural heritage
• Community: organising walks, events, talks and volunteering opportunities that connect people with the landscape and inspire support for its protection
• Advocacy: Campaigning for policies and initiatives that conserve and enhance the beauty, wildlife and amenities of the South Downs for public benefit

Through membership support, donations and volunteer involvement, Friends of the South Downs champions the long-term conservation of one of England’s most important protected landscapes, helping to ensure that the South Downs National Park can be enjoyed by residents, visitors and future generations alike.

More to explore

Board of Trustees

Our trustees each represent a variety of backgrounds and professions from conservation, academia, finance, legal and marketing.

Meet the team

The Friends is run by a Council of trustees elected by our members and by a team of three part-time staff.

Our history

Founded in 1923 as the Society of Sussex Downsmen, the Friends of the South Downs is the only membership-based charity dedicated to the protection of the South Downs National Park.

Public documents

Details of various documents relating to our work as well as opportunities to join walks, strolls, and events.

Contact Us

Our complete contact details. Get in touch by physical mail, email, phone, or send us a message directly from the website.