South Downs National Park

South Downs National Park The South Downs has been nationally recognised for its natural beauty and the space it offers. This is why it has been made into a National Park.

The South Downs has been nationally recognised for its natural beauty and the space it offers for people to enjoy the countryside. The twin purposes of the South Downs National Park are:

1. To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area

2. To promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the Park by the public

The South Downs National Park Authority is the lead organisation responsible for promoting the purposes of the National Park, working in partnership with other Local Authorities and organisations. In delivering Park purposes, the Authority has an important duty:

To seek to foster the economic and social well-being of the local communities within the National Park

Good news story: turtle doves in the South Downs 🕊️The turtle dove has inspired writers and musicians for centuries, but...
08/09/2026

Good news story: turtle doves in the South Downs 🕊️

The turtle dove has inspired writers and musicians for centuries, but it's now on the brink of extinction in the UK. That's why urgent efforts are now under way in the South Downs National Park to help this iconic species recover.

In late spring, 30 turtle doves were released in an undisclosed location near Selborne, and are already nesting, feeding and making themselves at home.

Soon they'll fly 3,000 miles to their overwintering grounds in sub-Saharan Africa. It's hoped they will return next year, thanks to the work of landowners, farmers, National Park Rangers and conservation partners who have created the right conditions for the birds to thrive, including new ponds, managed hedgerows and scrubby habitat for feeding and nesting.

Full story: https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/south-downs-national-park-brings-turtle-dove-back-from-the-brink/ 👋

📸: Paul Bushell

Here's a bit of golden hour inspiration to get your Monday started. 📸: Jeremy Bullen
07/09/2026

Here's a bit of golden hour inspiration to get your Monday started.

📸: Jeremy Bullen

Know of a young person looking for a Duke of Edinburgh's Bronze volunteering opportunity? 👋If you're aged 13 to 16, volu...
05/09/2026

Know of a young person looking for a Duke of Edinburgh's Bronze volunteering opportunity? 👋

If you're aged 13 to 16, volunteering as a Junior Ranger is an exciting way to learn new skills, connect with others and help care for and protect nature.

Plus, it counts towards the volunteering section of your Bronze DofE Award.

Deadline to apply: 20 September. Please note there are limited spaces.

Apply here: https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/learning-and-youth-volunteering/youth-volunteering/south-downs-junior-rangers/ 📍

📸: Emma Mcloughlin

Currently in the South Downs National Park departure lounge: the Nightjar.By late August and into September, many have l...
04/09/2026

Currently in the South Downs National Park departure lounge: the Nightjar.

By late August and into September, many have left the UK, crossing mountains, seas and deserts to winter in sub-Saharan Africa.

📸: Graham Osbourne

Some sunflowers to brighten your Wednesday.📸: Andy Flowerday
02/09/2026

Some sunflowers to brighten your Wednesday.

📸: Andy Flowerday

September! How did that happen? 🍂From changing landscapes to seasonal wildlife behaviour, there are plenty of signs that...
01/09/2026

September! How did that happen? 🍂

From changing landscapes to seasonal wildlife behaviour, there are plenty of signs that the seasons are changing. Look out for:

• The first hints of autumn colour
• Berry-laden hedgerows
• The start of the deer rut
• Early morning mists

📸: James Ratchford

Making the most of the long weekend? If you're visiting the heaths or out on the Downs, please remember to keep your dog...
31/08/2026

Making the most of the long weekend?

If you're visiting the heaths or out on the Downs, please remember to keep your dogs on a lead.

There are still plenty of ground nesting birds, reptiles and amphibians who would appreciate it. Thank you 😊

📸: Simon Watkins

Ditchling Dew Pond this summer vs when it's full 🌧️ Dew ponds remain vital havens for wildlife and an iconic part of the...
30/08/2026

Ditchling Dew Pond this summer vs when it's full 🌧️

Dew ponds remain vital havens for wildlife and an iconic part of the landscape, so the recent rain, with more on the way, is very welcome.

📸 Image 1: Claire Kerr, Image 2: Chris Hall

Address

South Downs Centre, North Street
Midhurst
GU299

Telephone

+441730814810

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