With the South Downs taking on its official National Park status as from 1 April 2010, a selection of new enlightened guides to some of the area's most interesting walks have been developed by local countryside historian, writer and avid walker, Richard Williamson.

Available to download for free from the West Dean Estate website, the walking suggestions are all based in and around West Dean, located in the heart of the South Downs. They encompass stunning views, wildlife, historical points of interest - and of course, places for eating and drinking.

Highlights include a wild daffodil walk through West Dean Woods; trying to spot Tennyson's ghost in Kingley Vale, Europe's finest Yew Forest; birdwatching for kites, buzzards and bullfinches in Chilgrove Valley; and following the footsteps of our Neolithic and Bronze age ancestors at Beacon Hill.

Walkers keen to stay within the West Dean Estate can also take a stroll in the West Dean Gardens, which are open throughout the year. Or for the slightly more energetic, the 2.5 mile circuit walk through landscaped parkland up to the St Roche's Arboretum with its fine collection of specimen trees, shrubs and breathtaking views of the South Downs, is a must.

For more information on the walks visit:
http://www.westdean.org.uk/Estate/Walks/RichardWillliamsonsWalks.aspx

For more information on places to visit and stay in the area www.visitchichester.org