South Downs Youth Hostel

You don’t have to be a hardcore rambler to stay here – but it’s a mighty fine idea to get in at least a few walks while you’re in the South Downs National Park. Set out on a multi-day extravaganza or just plan some local strolls; either way there’s some cracking scenery to be seen. Lots of trails are suitable for mountain bikes too, and there’s also scope for a bit of rock climbing at High Rocks (45 minutes’ drive) or watersports at the lake in Piddinghoe (20 minutes). Give the legs a bit of a rest with a day spent wandering around the Norman castle in Lewes (10 minutes; also accessible by train), meeting the zoo beasts at Drusillas Park (10 minutes) or taking a ride on the Bluebell Railway (half an hour). And then to the coast… perhaps for a saunter around the Seven Sisters Country Park (20 minutes) or for a day in Brighton (half an hour by car or train) for shops, museums, an aquarium, the pier, the beach, the Royal Pavilion…