In the Countryside
South East England has plenty of things to do in the countryside. What better way is there of getting away from it all and leaving your cares behind than spending some quality time surrounded by stunning natural beauty?
The South East represents all that is great about rural England: dense woods engulfed by bluebells in spring, vast downs and hills that offer superb walking country, meadows ablaze with colour in summer or towpaths for river strolls. There are miles of footpaths to be discovered on foot or by bicycle in the region’s counties, and a drive along quiet roads off the beaten track will uncover picture-postcard villages and bustling market towns.
So, be it a romantic stroll beside a trickling river, an energetic hike across the green rolling hills or a brisk walk beside the sea, you are sure to leave the South East with memories to cherish.
Here is a selection of ideas for countryside breaks in South East England:
Walk the Landscape
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Discover the rich tapestry of the English countryside on foot at a leisurely pace to see more of the rolling hills, honey coloured limestone villages, bustling market towns and grand country houses of Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds. Stretch your legs in the clean fresh air and enjoy carpets of bluebells beneath the unfurling leaves of spring, vibrant green fields under deep blue summer skies, the rich bronze of beeches in their glorious autumn colour and crisp white winter frosts. Not forgetting delicious lunches and comfortable accommodation in village pubs of character.
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Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight boasts some of the most spectacular coastline in the country and is home to picturesque coves, beautiful bays and mile upon mile of golden sand beaches. With a naturally mild climate, the island is perfect for cycling and walking.
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River Thames
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When you feel like being on the water, a trip on the River Thames is hard to beat. With so many things in the area taking place in or alongside this most famous of rivers, you’ll never be short of ideas for things to do along its banks.
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Maidstone
The countryside in and around the Maidstone area is varied and beautiful. It offers wonderful walking on the North Downs and along the famous Pilgrims Way Trail, with wild flowers, delightful scenery, cosy pubs and pretty villages all offering refreshment and relaxation. Watch out for wildlife through the hop gardens, orchard, woodlands and along the banks of the River Medway.
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Oxfordshire Cotswolds
Steeped in history, rich in heritage and awash with natural beauty, the Oxfordshire Cotswolds epitomises all that is fine in rural England. Beautiful rolling countryside, historic market towns, amazing attractions and Cotswold stone villages make this an irresistible destination to visit.
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Waterperry Gardens
Just a stones thrown from the historic centre of Oxford, Waterperry Gardens was established as a school of horticulture for ladies in the early 1930’s and is now home to the famous ornamental gardens nestling in the countryside. There’s also a five acre orchard which is open to visitors during out Apple Weekend event in October.
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Wiltshire countryside
Wiltshire's countryside is the perfect place to get away from it all. Experience breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages and a slow, relaxing pace of life. Almost half of Wiltshire is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and one of the best ways to explore is on foot. Discover the wild open spaces of Cranborne Chase, Salisbury Plain and the North Wessex Downs, or unwind among the honey-coloured villages of the Wiltshire Cotswolds.
More about Wiltshire Countryside
South Downs
Nestled in the heart of West Sussex, the South Downs - Britain’s newest National Park - offers a scenic network of paths and bridleways for cyclists and walkers with over 2000 miles of easily accessible trails. The South Downs create the perfect countryside day out for anyone looking to feel their lungs with fresh air and get away from it all.
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Lewes
Nestled within the South Downs National Park, the historic town of Lewes presides over the surrounding countryside with an air of traditional elegance and contemporary style. Perfect for walking, cycling and a general sense of well-being, Lewes and the surrounding area offers much to the discernible explorer.
More about Lewes
More ideas in the countryside
This selection of countryside attractions has been selected by Tourism South East, the official South East England Tourist Board, to appeal to couples and those wishing to spend quality time together. Visit our Visit South East England website for more ideas for short breaks, days out and things to do across the region. Alternatively, visit our Fun Family Days Out website for ideas for families.
