The South Downs Way is a stunning route, with miles of scenic countryside to explore. But whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a 10-day excursion, finding the right place to stay is essential for making the most of your trip and ensuring you’re well rested enough to hike or bike the following day. These are some of the best places to stay along the route to make your experience even more memorable, whether you want a luxury hotel or a camping adventure.
Should I reserve accommodation in advance?
It depends on when you’re planning on completing your South Downs Way walk, but during peak season, it’s definitely recommended that you plan in advance and book a room. Peak season is between mid-March and the end of September.
However, whatever time of year you plan to do your walk, knowing you have somewhere set up for the night can make the whole trip go more smoothly. This is also true if you plan on camping, as many of the camping grounds along the route are popular in the summer months. Aim to book your accommodation at least 3 months in advance, especially if you’re trying to reserve in-demand hotels and B&Bs.
What will accommodation along the South Downs Way cost?
There are plenty of itineraries along the South Downs Way, so there are certainly options to suit all budgets. Whether you want to get the full walking experience by camping or you want to rest in luxury with a plush hotel, there is accommodation for all needs.
For a B&B, guesthouse or a hotel stay, you can expect to pay at least £75 per person/per night, while a hostel will set you back around £40+ per person/per night. To camp along this route, it will cost you around £15 per person/per night. Naturally, these prices will fluctuate based on seasonality.
Our top picks
The South Downs Way is packed with wonderful, comfortable accommodation, but these are just a few of our favourite stops along the route that might inspire you for your own walking holiday.
Ye Olde George Inn, East Meon, Hampshire
A charming 15th century coaching inn set in the heart of the Hampshire countryside near Petersfield, Ye Olde George Inn is a historic building that enjoys views of the River Meon. The inn provides comfortable accommodation and plenty of charm, with inglenook fireplaces and a welcoming bar area where you can relax after a long day’s walking along the South Downs.
Park House Hotel and Spa, Midhurst, West Sussex
If luxury is what you want as part of your walking excursion, the Park House Hotel is the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day. Set in the village of Bepton to the southwest of Midhurst, this stunning hotel is quiet and relaxing, with the South Downs on your doorstep. There are plenty of on-site amenities if you plan to stay longer, but it’s one of the best hotels in the area for walking and hiking as it’s so close to the surrounding scenery.
The Ram Inn, Lewes, East Sussex
Once a thriving pub, The Ram Inn is now a welcoming hotel an restaurant in the historic village of Firle, near Lewes. A popular spot with the locals, each of the six rooms here has been carefully renovated to a high standard, while the food served up in the on-site restaurant has been sourced locally for a true taste of Sussex.
Copper Beeches, Buriton, Hampshire
Just a short walk from the South Downs Way, Copper Beeches is to the east of Buriton and is a simple but charming farmhouse B&B that has friendly owners and a beautiful pastoral setting. The accommodation is situated between Petersfield and the village of South Harting, for the perfect location for walking and biking.
Brick House, Cheriton, Hampshire
The Brick House is a unique spot which shares a building with a bakery school. It’s a convenient option in the delightful village of Cheriton near Alresford, and enjoys a wonderful setting, close to the South Downs Way and all its amenities. Stick around for the included breakfast, which you won’t want to miss.
For more advice on the best places to stay on your South Downs walking experience, please feel free to contact us. Or if you’d like some advice on how to get started with planning a walking adventure along the South Downs, take a look at some of our most popular routes.