Now the economic heartland of Britain, a journey through South-East England can take you from the ever-busy centre capital to peaceful rural scenery. If you are travelling from overseas, take a short break in London, and visit its many museums and historic sights, before enjoying a walking holiday in the British Countryside.

Chalk Downs
Just an hour south of London is Abingworth in the South Downs. This area of green fields and rolling chalk hills is a world away from the bustle of the capital. On a Classic Walking holiday here you'll enjoy the choice of guided walks through this pastoral landscape including contrasting coastal walks around Chichester Harbour or atop the magnificent chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters. Following the crest of the Downs all the way from historic Winchester to Beachy Head, the South Down's Way is the area's premier long distance trail. Alternatively you could try a relaxing introduction to trail walking following the Ouse Valley Walk beside this gently meandering river from its source to the sea.

Away from it all on the Isle of Wight
Just a 30 minute ferry ride from the mainland, the Isle of Wight offers some of the best walking in southern England. Drawn by the mild climate and fresh sea air, the island developed as a popular destination for 19 th century holidaymakers, including Queen Victoria who spent much of her time at Osborne House. Situated at the foot of Tennyson Down (named after one of the island's other famous residents), Freshwater Bay is an excellent base for discovering the island on a Classic Walking holiday. If you enjoy coastal scenery, the 65 mile Isle of Wight Coast Path is another great way to see its many corners.

Far from the Madding Crowd in Dorset
A little further along the coast is the county of Dorset, known throughout the world as the setting for the Thomas Hardy's novels. Swanage, situated on the Purbeck Peninsula is a charming seaside town complete with a long sandy beach and vintage steam trains. On a guided Classic Walking holiday here you'll follow this superb stretch of coastline, visit the attractive cove at Lulworth and head inland to traditional villages and Corfe Castle. If you prefer self-guided walking then the Dorset section of the South West Coast Path is an excellent way to see the 'Jurassic Coast', England's first Natural World Heritage Site.

Fenlands of East Anglia
The low lying counties of East Anglia generally hold little-interest for walkers, especially those in search of hills and mountains. Here acres of land have been drained to form some of England's most productive arable land. The crowing glory, however, is the Norfolk Coast Path, a relaxing, yet enchanting trail through this corner of Britain. With sleepy villages and excellent opportunities to view the outstanding local birdlife, this is a walk to be taken slowly.