New National Forest Created

The South Downs, covering parts of Sussex and Hampshire, has been given national park status almost 60 years since it was first recommended.

Environment minister Hilary Benn has said the area will become England's ninth national park and the first to be created since the National Forest in 2005.

The decision means the area will be given the highest level of protection under the planning system, preserving its countryside.

The Department for the Environment, Farms and Rural Affairs said the South Downs National Park will not be formally created until early in 2011, but walking holiday specialist HF Holidays is already promoting its range of hikes in the area.

On offer is a choice of guided walking itineraries ? easy, medium and hard ? guided trails, self-guided freedom breaks as well as a range of leisure activity options such as golf, photography and Nordic walking.

As an example of price, a 3-night guided classic walking holiday costs from £215 per person, based on two sharing and inclusive of full-board en-suite accommodation, organised walks and evening entertainment, walk leaders, plus coach transport to and from the start and finish of each walk.

Travel insurance is available for UK and activity holidays from insurewithease.

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