Harting Downs Circular
You can start this route at Harting Downs for ample parking or the preferred Three Horseshoes pub in Elsford a little up the road. The Three Horseshoes is a traditional country pub bursting with character, inside is like stepping back in time. It has a beautiful garden with fantastic views over fields of crops and a flock of chickens that happily roam free.
Beginning at the Three Horseshoes, follow this route through farmland and up a steep wooded path onto the Downs. It’s a bit of a climb but well worth it. Views from Beacon Hill and Harting Downs are some of the best on the South Downs Way. Watch locals launch their gliders high into the sky and if you’re lucky, you may even spot a buzzard.
Managed by the National Trust, it’s a popular area for the whole family to enjoy but peace can always be found slightly off the National Trail, and this route will take you there. But first, enjoy a picnic and a flask of hot coffee on the ridge looking out over the quaint villages of South and East Harting. From here you’ll complete the loop on quieter undulating trails with a mix of forest, secluded valleys and ridgeline views.
In the area there are several nearly-wild campsites open during summer months where you can base yourself and the historic cities of Portsmouth and Chichester are not too far away. Spring is one of the best times of year to do this walk as you’ll be greeted with an abundance of colourful wildflowers. Don’t forget to bag the trig at the top of Beacon Hill!
This route guide is part of the Taylor’s of Harrogate Coffee Bag Adventures Collection and was created by OS Champion Helen Newman
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