A walk at Blackcap
Enjoy this secluded gem with sunken bostals, a hidden woodland, views over the Weald and fascinating history.
Blackcap is a remote and tranquil countryside spot with very few visitors so is a perfect place to while away a quiet afternoon.
Map
Start:
Layby on B2116, grid ref: TQ381129
1
Cross road from lay-by, go through gate and straight up main chalk track slightly to the right.
Flowers line the way
The sunken track you follow is a 'bostal' etched by the footsteps of countless sheep and cattle. In spring and summer its sides are smothered with wildflowers. Keen eyes may spot the aptly named bee and frog orchids, or musk orchids that look like tiny Christmas trees.
2
Stay on the main track until until you get to the top of hill.
3
At top the bostal leads into open downland. Turn left and follow the path to the viewpoint (this is the OS trig point) on the ridge.
4
Continue down the hill, taking the track to the right of the crest of the ridge.
Scrub bashing
The scrub you pass provides important food and shelter for birds and butterflies, but its growth needs to be controlled or it will smother the open grassland. 'Scrub bashing' involves clearing young trees and bushes but leaving some sheltered thickets as wildlife habitats. The sheep and reddish brown Sussex cattle which graze here help by nibbling the shoots of new trees.
5
Turn right at a waymark sign 110yd (100m) from the bridle gate. Follow the path down into a valley turning right where it meets the main track. Follow straight on along the shady track.
Wildlife in the woods
You now enter a more secluded world from the open downs, peaceful yet rich in wildlife. Small sunny glades are blanketed with yellow rock rose in the spring and the purple of devil's bit scabious in late summer; while red campion and rosebay willowherb form pink borders along the path. At dusk in summer the air is perfumed with the sweet scent of honeysuckle. If you are quiet, you might spot badgers, foxes or roe deer.
6
Stay on the main track which becomes steep and narrow. Go through the gate at the top, then straight on up the field. From the top of the bostal follow your steps back to the start.
End:
Layby on B2116, grid ref: TQ381129
