The South Downs National Park is England’s newest National Park and became fully operational on 1st April 2011. Liphook is the closest settlement to London in the National Park and as such could be deemed a ‘gateway’. We are keen

to celebrate this fact and preserve it for generations to come.

The park covers an area of 1,627 square kilometres (628 square miles) and stretches for 140 kilometres (87 miles) from Winchester in the West to Eastbourne in the East through the counties of Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex.

This link gives all the information about the formation of the National Park: http://archive.defra.gov.uk/rural/national-parks/south-downs/key-docs.htm

The national park covers not only the chalk ridge of the South Downs but also a separate physiographic region – the Western Weald – with its heavily wooded sandstone and clay hills and vales. This area – of which Liphook is a part – is considered to have as much importance, if not more, than the chalk downs.

Seven Special Qualities of the National Park have been identified and agreed by the South Downs National Park Authority on 13th December 2011, and the Chair of the SDNPA said in December 2011 that these qualities are “the cornerstone of the work of the Authority”. They are as follows:

1. Diverse, inspirational landscapes and breathtaking views

2. A rich variety of wildlife and habitats including rare and internationally important species

3. Tranquil and unspoilt places

4. An environment shaped by centuries of farming and embracing new enterprise

5. Great opportunities for recreational activities and learning experiences

6. Well conserved historical features and a rich cultural heritage

7. Distinctive towns and villages, and communities with real pride in their area

To read more about these special qualities follow this link: SDNPA_Special_Qualities