Countryside Breaks in South East England

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 epitomises 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.

The River Thames winds it way through the region and provides many an enjoyable opportunity for just messing about on the river. A walk along the Thames Path, which stretches some 184 miles, provides snatched glimpses of wildlife – after all, this is the terrain of the classic children’s story Wind in the Willows. Taking the ferry across to the Isle of Wight is a unique experience, with its relaxed lifestyle and miles of costal and inland paths to explore. 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.

Oxfordshire Cotswolds

Rich in heritage and awash with natural beauty, the Oxfordshire Cotswolds epitomises all that is fine in rural England. A charming blend of bustling market towns and breathtaking scenery, the area harbours over 6,000 years of history.

Find out more - Oxfordshire Cotswolds

Find out more - days out in Oxfordshire

Chichester Harbour

One of the few remaining undeveloped coastal areas in Southern England, Chichester Harbour is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is popular for fishing, bird watching and sailing.

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Find out more - days out in Chichester Harbour

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.

Find out more - days out on the Isle of Wight with Red Funnel Ferries

Find out more - days out on the Isle of Wight with Wrightlink Ferries

South Downs

Nestled in the heart of West Sussex - the South Downs are a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and are a popular area for ramblers, with a network of 2,000 miles of managed and easily accessible trails.

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Find out more - days out in West Sussex

River Thames

When you feel like being on the water, a trip on the River Thames is hard to beat. So many things in the area take place in, alongside or on this most famous of rivers.

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Find out more - Official River Thames Visitor's Guide