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If you are in England and want to see beautiful sky paintings at night, try visiting the South Downs National Park.
The national park stretches from Winchester to Eastbourne through Hampshire and West and East Sussex. It is renowned for having incredibly clear night skies, one of the best in the UK.
Launch ExpressSaturday (9/11/2024) even though it is still young, this new national park, which was founded in 2010, has been awarded the status of an international sky reserve in 20216.
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Every year between 13th and 23rd February, the South Downs National Park hosts the highly anticipated Night Sky Festival. There are several key stargazing spots in the park including Old Winchester Hill, Butser Hill, Birling Gap and Bignor Hill.
This national park covers an area of 1,600 square kilometers and offers a variety of activities such as kayaking, fishing, nature walks and picnic areas. Then, the South Downs National Park is also known as one of England’s ‘breathing spaces’, making it an ideal place for a relaxing walk enjoying nature.
After a day enjoying the fresh air and exploring the park area, visitors can take the 167 Village Rider bus from Hassocks train station to Lewes and stop in the charming village of Ditchling.
In the village visitors can enjoy the best sparkling wine in England from two stunning local vineyards. Apart from that, visitors can also taste various delicious dishes at famous pubs such as the Ditchling Bull which is located in the center of the village.
Ditchling Bull was named best venue in the Great British Pub Awards 2019, serving traditional British dishes with local ingredients.
To get to the National Park and the surrounding villages, visitors can take the train from Victoria Station in London to Hassocks Train Station which takes less than three hours.
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Experience the Magic at South Downs National Park
Ah, England! A land of rolling hills, crumpets, and a weather forecast that can make you question your life choices. But hold onto your umbrellas, because we’re about to take a journey to the South Downs National Park—where the skies aren’t just a boring shade of gray, they’re an extravagant display of cosmic art!
If you fancy a bit of the old stargazing—and let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to see the universe throw a glitter party?—then head to this gem of a national park that stretches from the historical Winchester to the pebble people of Eastbourne. It’s renowned for having one of the best night skies in the UK. And if you thought a night in and binge-watching Netflix was highly rated, wait until you experience the celestial theatre of the South Downs! It’ll make you wish you’d never traded your telescope for a pair of fuzzy socks.
Date for the Diary
Mark your calendars, folks! Between the 13th and 23rd of February, the park hosts its highly anticipated Night Sky Festival. Yes, you heard it right—celebrating all things space without even having to pay for a ticket to outer space. The stars shine brilliantly; even the moon is thinking of charging rent!
There are several prime stargazing spots in the park, including Old Winchester Hill (yes, lots of hills, but we’re not complaining when the view is heavenly), Butser Hill, Birling Gap, and Bignor Hill—where you can pretend to be an ancient astronomer, bundled in your best winter coat, trying to connect the dots in the sky. Spoiler alert: they probably won’t help with your love life, but they might provide some good conversation starters!
More than Just Stars
And let’s not forget, during the day, South Downs National Park is the playground of nature! Spanning an impressive 1,600 square kilometers, it offers a plethora of activities—like kayaking (just watch out for any wayward ducks who think they own the place), fishing, and nature walks. There’s also picnic and ‘chill-out’ areas—which is basically code for “It’s fine to eat a sandwich while contemplating your life choices.” The park is known as one of England’s ‘breathing spaces’. Perhaps not the best name for a park, considering it could also double as a description for a really boring yoga class.
From Park to Pub
But after you’ve exercised your body and mind, why not treat your taste buds? Hop on the 167 Village Rider bus from Hassocks train station to Lewes, and take a pit stop in the charming village of Ditchling.
Here, you can sip on the best sparkling wine this side of England, thanks to two exquisite local vineyards. Because nothing says “I’m appreciating nature” like downing bubbly whilst admiring other massive rocks in the distance! Plus, after all that stargazing, you’ll want to recharge your batteries with some good old British grub. May I recommend the Ditchling Bull? This pub was crowned the best venue in the Great British Pub Awards 2019. Its traditional dishes are crafted with local ingredients, made even tastier by the knowledge that the chef didn’t just microwave a frozen meal!
Easy Access
All this cosmic wonder and culinary delight is just a train ride away! You can easily catch a train from Victoria Station in London to Hassocks Train Station, with the journey taking less than three hours—providing the train isn’t late, of course, because we all know trains are as reliable as my grandma’s WiFi. If you’re lucky, you might even spot cute dogs in the park while you’re there. Just remember to ask before petting; they often have ‘handlers’—those very serious-looking humans who will glare at you if you dare approach.
In conclusion, if you’re looking to be dazzled by stars, spoiled by food, and surrounded by charming English vistas, then the South Downs National Park is calling your name. Just bring a telescope, a sense of adventure, and maybe a backup plan for when it rains—because hey, it’s England!
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A long day of outdoor adventures, why not treat yourself to some delightful culinary experiences? Just a short bus ride away is the charming village of Ditchling, where visitors can sip on some of England’s finest sparkling wine from local vineyards, or indulge in delicious meals at celebrated eateries like the Ditchling Bull. This pub was recognized as the best venue in the Great British Pub Awards 2019, where you can enjoy traditional British dishes made with local ingredients—a perfect end to a day of fun and exploration.
Interview with Stargazing Enthusiast, Emily Turner
**Editor:** “Emily, thanks for joining us today! Can you tell us why you decided to visit South Downs National Park for stargazing?”
**Emily:** ”Absolutely! I’ve always loved astronomy, and I’ve heard so many wonderful things about South Downs. The park’s international sky reserve status really piqued my interest. I wanted to see the stars without the interference of city lights, and this park is renowned for having some of the clearest night skies in the UK.”
**Editor:** “That sounds incredible! What was your experience during the Night Sky Festival?”
**Emily:** ”It was magical! There were people of all ages, all excited to share their knowledge and passion for the cosmos. We had telescopes set up and even a few workshops. The highlight was definitely witnessing the brilliant array of stars and constellations. It’s a perfect event for anyone, whether you’re a novice or an expert.”
**Editor:** ”I love that! And aside from stargazing, what else did you enjoy in the park?”
**Emily:** “The hiking trails were beautiful! I spent the day exploring various trails, taking in the stunning views, and enjoying the fresh air. I also visited Ditchling and tried some of the local wine. It was just the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.”
**Editor:** “What would you say to someone considering a visit to South Downs National Park?”
**Emily:** “Don’t hesitate! Whether you’re an astronomy buff or just someone looking to unwind in nature, there’s so much to explore. Plus, the night sky will leave you in awe. Remember to bring your telescope if you have one; you won’t regret it!”
**Editor:** “Great advice, Emily. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!”
**Emily:** “Thank you for having me! I hope everyone gets to experience the wonders of South Downs!”
With its stunning landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and exceptional stargazing opportunities, South Downs National Park truly offers a unique adventure for all. Whether you’re hiking by day or gazing at the stars by night, it promises unforgettable memories in the heart of England’s natural beauty.