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Blackcap
A classic downland experience with secret woodland glades
Lewes, East Sussex
Opening times for 21 May 2025
Asset Opening time Countryside Dawn - Dusk MTWTFSS282930123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930311OpenPartially openClosedDogs are welcome but must be controlled at all times. Parking, (not NT), in lay-by off B2116. No toilets – nearest accessible toilets in Lewes town centre. Steep ascents with unmade tracks which can be wet in winter.
- By road
Follow B2116 west of Lewes. Small lay-by below on B2116 for parking (free, open 24 hours), entrance to Blackcap opposite lay-by
Parking: Small lay-by on B2116 for parking (free, open 24 hours), entrance to Blackcap opposite lay-by
- On foot
On the South Downs Way
- By train
Lewes 4 miles; Cooksbridge 2 miles. Good rail links from London to Haywards Heath and London to Lewes
- By bus
Service 166, Lewes to Haywards Heath; service 824, Lewes to Burgess Hill. See Countryliner for timetable. Alight at The Blacksmith's Arms at Offham then, with the pub directly on your right, walk along main road until you reach the public access sign, then follow path to Blackcap. Alternatively, alight at the Half Moon at Plumpton then walk to crossroads, cross main road and go along track opposite Plumpton Lane. Bear left at top of ridge and follow straight to Blackcap
- Cycling
The South Downs Way passes Blackcap, which then links to a network of bridleways and country lanes
Highlights
Countryside
Blackcap occupies 623 acres along the ridge of the South Downs, just west of the historic old town of Lewes. This stunning hilltop area offers fine views over the Weald to the north and across the dip-slope to the coast.
History
The whole area is steeped in history with burial mounds, battle grounds and ancient trackways. It is reputed that Simon de Montfort marched his army along this way in 1264 to fight King Henry III's men in the Battle of Lewes.
Ancient places
Known locally as Bracky Bottom, because of the bracken growing in the coombe, you can enjoy an evening walk with the scent of honeysuckle and maybe a sighting of the white admiral butterfly. There are bottoms all over the Downs, and this is truly one of the finest.
Wildlife
In summer take scented walks across the wild flowering marjoram which grows in abundance over the hillside. You'll find nearby Ashcombe Bottom a short walk south of Blackcap where migrating birds including wheatear can be spotted in autumn and winter.
Top trails
Trail
A walk at Blackcap
Enjoy this secluded gem with sunken bostals, a hidden woodland, views over the Weald and fascinating history.
Upcoming events
Sorry, there are no upcoming events at this place
About Blackcap
Blackcap, in East Sussex, occupies 623 acres along the ridge of the South Downs, just west of the historic old town of Lewes. This stunning hilltop area offers fine views over The Weald to the north and across the dip-slope to the coast.
In summer take scented walks across the wild flowering majoram which grows in abundance over the hillside. You'll find nearby Ashcombe bottom a short walk south of Blackcap.
Known locally as Bracky Bottom, because of the bracken growing in the coombe, you can enjoy an evening walk with the scent of honeysuckle and maybe a sighting of the white admiral butterfly. There are bottoms all over the Downs, and this is truly one of the finest.
The whole area is steeped in history with burial mounds, battle grounds and ancient trackways. It is reputed that Simon de Montfort marched his army along this way in 1264 to fight King Henry III's men in the Battle of Lewes.
Our work
Project
Project
Changing Chalk partnership
The South Downs have been a place to live, work and play for thousands of years. Together we can make sure they will be enjoyed for thousands more. Learn how the projects of the Changing Chalk partnership, led by the National Trust, are restoring lost habitats, bringing histories to life, and providing new outdoor experiences across the eastern South Downs, and discover how you can get involved.