Unusual Place to Stay | South Downs National Park

Stepping outside The Byre…

For those looking to immerse themselves into the natural landscape, you couldn’t be better situated. Walking distance from The Byre rests The Long Man of Wilmington. A large chalk figure carved into the downs with interesting folklore surrounding its origins. Wilmington church and its 1600 year old yew tree is also well worth a visit.

As well as many beautiful Sussex walks, view points and landmarks, there is also fantastic local food and drink to enjoy. A stone’s throw away from The Byre is The Sussex Ox (approx 200 meters). The Ox is a lovely local pub with its own organic farm, which serves local, ethical and sustainable produce. In the neighbouring village of Litlington, the fabulous Long Man Brewery produces award winning craft beer. It also has a shop, tasting rooms and offers tours of the Brewery.

Alfriston

Just over a mile away is the medieval village of Alfriston which lies in the valley of the River Cuckmere. It has been voted ‘the best village in the UK’ out of 6,000 other UK villages by The Telegraph, making it a ‘must do’ during your stay.

Absorb its rich history by visiting the magnificent Alfriston church known as the ‘cathedral of the south’. And, don’t miss The Clergy House – the very first property bought by the National Trust in 1896. Keep your eye out for the renowned oak leaf logo caved into the building!

This picturesque village is crammed with little independent shops including art, antiques, vintage clothes, gifts, a bookshop and a useful local store. With three tearooms, two country pubs and three hotels you are completely spoilt for choice when it comes to locally prepared food and drink!

Local landmarks

The woodland of Friston Forest is 3 miles away and is a paradise for mountain bikers, horse riders and walkers alike.

Don’t miss the stunning meanders of the cuckmere river at Seven Sisters Country Park. Or visit Birling Gap and the magnificent Seven Sisters chalk cliffs with stunning walks and breath-taking views of the coastline.

If you fancy a longer walking adventure, continue East from the Seven Sisters. You’ll find yourself at Eastbourne’s Beachy Head, looking out at the famous white and red striped lighthouse.

South Downs National Park

The Byre is situated within the stunning South Downs National Park which features rolling hills, river valleys, inspirational landscapes, iconic white cliffs, famous coastlines, ancient woodland and historic villages and market towns. The word ‘Downs’ comes from a Celtic word meaning ‘hills’ and is named after an area of chalk downland spanning 87 miles across southern England, from St Catherine’s Hill in Hampshire in the west to Beachy Head in East Sussex in the east.

The South Downs National Park has the honor of being an International Dark Sky Reserve (IDSR) which means it is one of the best places in the world to star gaze and offers an exceptionally clear night sky. The South Down skies are protected for scientific, natural, educational, cultural, heritage and public enjoyment.

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Location

The local area and further afield

Stepping outside The Byre…

Alfriston

Local landmarks

South Downs National Park

Nearby places

Alfriston

Litlington

Glyndbourne

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