The Sussex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty includes much of the South Downs, which reach the sea in dramatic fashion at Beachy Head near Eastbourne. Although most of the Downs are now given over to agriculture, there are still large areas of ancient downland, rich in flowers and butterflies, to explore using the wide network of footpaths. There are also some very good views to be had from Ditchling Beacon, a popular local beauty spot. Mostly rural, the area has two towns of note. Petworth is dominated by the magnificient Petworth House, with its superb art collection, including many works by Turner. And don’t miss the charming market town of Midhurst, which, with its many fine Tudor buildings, retains much of its original character.