Friends of the South Downs

Friends of the South Downs We are a membership charity dedicated to the protection of the South Downs National Park.

A small celebration with a lasting impact 🎈Every single released balloon can have consequences beyond the original event...
24/09/2026

A small celebration with a lasting impact 🎈

Every single released balloon can have consequences beyond the original event.
Before releasing a helium-filled balloon, stop and consider where it could end up. A few minutes of celebration are not worth creating a lasting problem affecting wildlife, communities or the environment.

We're encouraging all to keep balloons tied, choose reusable decorations instead, and spread awareness to celebrate responsibly. By doing so, we can all celebrate while protecting the places and wildlife we love and value.

📱 Downlo ad the free Big River Watch app and survey a river near you between the 18th and 24th Sept📱 Download the free B...
18/09/2026

📱 Downlo ad the free Big River Watch app and survey a river near you between the 18th and 24th Sept📱 Download the free Big River Watch app and survey a river near you between the 18th and 24th September.

Every observation, from wildlife and plants to river flow and pollution, helps build a clearer picture of river health and the impact of drought on our waterways.

Head to theriverstrust.org/big-river-watch to learn more.

September 2026 is a landmark in the history of the Friends of the South Downs,In 1926, we launched a campaign to raise t...
09/09/2026

September 2026 is a landmark in the history of the Friends of the South Downs,

In 1926, we launched a campaign to raise the funds necessary to purchase 475 acres of sheep-grazed chalk downland destined for development. The land under threat was the Crowlink Valley, now part of the Seven Sisters Country Park.

The campaign raised nearly £17,000 which is equivalent to £1.4 million today, in just 28 days, saving the landscape for the nation.

A monument commemorating the event lies on Flagstaff Point, atop the Seven Sisters.

A walk has been organised to mark this historic occasion. We'd love for you to join us for a 3.4 mile circular walk from East Dean to the Sarsen Stone monument.

When: Thursday 24 September, 10:30 - 13:00

There will be a short talk about the campaign and people involved.

Seven Sisters Country Park

Send us a message if you'd like to come along, or email [email protected].

📸D Taylor

20/08/2026

A visit to Medley Bottom, Amberley in hunt of the Small Blue. Instead, plenty of Adonis Blues!

📸 D Taylor

The rain was a welcome sight for all of us, particularly the wildlife of the South Downs. The sheep were almost camoufla...
20/08/2026

The rain was a welcome sight for all of us, particularly the wildlife of the South Downs. The sheep were almost camouflaged on Tuesday, at Medley Bottom near Amberley.

Medley Bottom is home to the majority of downland butterfly species and chalk turf wildflowers.

📸David Taylor

An Adonis Blue shining like a jewel at Medley Bottom near Amberley earlier this week.Today is and we are lucky to have...
19/08/2026

An Adonis Blue shining like a jewel at Medley Bottom near Amberley earlier this week.

Today is and we are lucky to have the support of some very talented photographers who volunteer their work and efforts in aid of our campaign for National Park protection.

These shots were captured by our very own wildlife photographer and trustee David!

Who hasn’t come across redundant tree guards littering the ground whilst out for a walk? Well, now is your chance to put...
10/08/2026

Who hasn’t come across redundant tree guards littering the ground whilst out for a walk? Well, now is your chance to put it right.

Trustee David has organised the first Tree Guard Cleanup Day of the year and he needs volunteers to help.

The date to put in your diary is Friday 11 September at 10am and the location is Middleton Manor Estate at Westmeston near Lewes. Half a day is all it would take and your help would be much appreciated.

If you would like to sign up, visit https://www.ticketsource.com/friends-of-the-south-downs/t-vxmpnva

This September in aid of World Su***de Prevention Team, why not join the sponsored walk raising vital funds for Olly's F...
05/08/2026

This September in aid of World Su***de Prevention Team, why not join the sponsored walk raising vital funds for Olly's Future mental health charity.

The Worthing Five Peaks Challenge, organised by Olly's Future, is an epic adventure enjoying amazing countryside views as part of this walking challenge.

The charity was set up in memory of Oliver Hare from Worthing, a young man who tragically took his own life in 2017. Founded by his mother, Ann Feloy, its work includes delivering training to equip people with the skills to spot signs in someone who may be thinking of su***de, and have a conversation that could help save their life.

To sign up, visit https://ollysfuture.org.uk/events/fivepeakschallenge/ 🔗🥾

Last week our brilliant volunteers were out in full force to continue tackling invasive Himalayan balsam plants 🌱Whilst ...
03/08/2026

Last week our brilliant volunteers were out in full force to continue tackling invasive Himalayan balsam plants 🌱

Whilst beautiful to look at, their damage is affecting waterways in the catchment, so a coordinated approach with other local organisations is vital to make a difference.

The group's highlight was finding an Elephant hawk-moth caterpillar!

Address

3 Swan Court, Station Road
Pulborough
RH201RL

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 1:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 1:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 1:30pm

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