South Downs National Park

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South Downs National Park
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IUCN category	V
Location	[[England]]
Nearest city	[[Brighton and Hove]]
Area
Established	31 March 2010
Visitors
Governing body	[[South Downs National Park Authority]]
Website	[ South Downs National Park]
This protected area related article is a stub.

The South Downs National Park is a national park in England that covers the South Downs, a range of chalk hills that extends for about 260 square miles (670 km²) across the counties of Hampshire, West Sussex, and East Sussex. The park was officially designated on 31 March 2010 and became fully operational on 1 April 2011.

Geography[edit | edit source]

The South Downs National Park stretches from Winchester in the west to Eastbourne in the east, encompassing a variety of landscapes including rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and river valleys. The park is known for its chalk grassland, which supports a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Flora and Fauna[edit | edit source]

The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. Notable flora includes species such as the Bee Orchid, Round-headed Rampion, and Devil's-bit Scabious. The fauna includes species like the Adonis Blue butterfly, Skylark, and Brown Hare.

History[edit | edit source]

The South Downs have been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements. The area is rich in archaeological sites, including hill forts, burial mounds, and ancient field systems.

Recreation[edit | edit source]

The park offers numerous recreational activities such as hiking, cycling, and horse riding. The South Downs Way, a long-distance footpath, runs the length of the park and is popular with walkers and cyclists.

Conservation[edit | edit source]

The South Downs National Park Authority is responsible for conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the area. The authority also promotes opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the park's special qualities by the public.

Governance[edit | edit source]

The park is managed by the South Downs National Park Authority, which is responsible for planning, conservation, and promoting sustainable tourism within the park.