South Downs

South Downs, hill range in England. The South Downs, together with the North Downs, are the best known of a series of undulating chalk hills south of the River Thames, which are collectively called the Downs. Both ridges extend from a range of hills known as the Western Downs, and enclose a district called The Weald. Typically, the Downs are characterized by smooth rolling, wooded hillsides and uplands covered with grazing sod for sheep.

The North Downs reach from Farnham to the English Channel between Dover and Folkestone. They are 153 km (95 mi) long and are broken by a series of deep gaps made by streams. The highest point of the North Downs is Leith Hill, which is 294 m (965 ft) above sea level. The North Downs Way is a popular long distance trail that follows the length of the Downs and includes part of the Pilgrims Way, which was made famous by Chaucer in his Canterbury Tales.

The South Downs stretch from Petersfield to the English Channel at Beachy Head. They are 105 km (65 mi) long and are also breached by the courses of streams and rivers, including the Ouse, Adur, and Arun. The highest point of the South Downs is Butser Hill, which is 271 m (889 ft) above sea level. Devil's Dyke, the deepest dry valley in the world, is located here. The South Downs Way is a long distance trail that runs from Winchester to Beachy Head, and is popular with walkers and horse riders.