Harting Down

Harting Down nature reserve in West Sussex is one of the largest areas of ancient chalk downland cared for by us. A tapestry of pristine downland blends beautifully with scattered scrub and woodland.

Experience a sense of timelessness where sheep have grazed for thousands of years. When you reach the brow of the hilltops you are greeted by views across the Weald and to the Isle of Wight.

Hear skylarks bursting with song above you and tread on grassland awash with pyramidal orchids and wild herbs. Venture off the South Downs Way into a more secluded valley where you will find species-rich downland turf edged with scrub full of songbirds. It is also home to one of the best juniper sites in the south. Butterflies such as the Grizzled Skipper thrive here. Look out for the exquisite Blue Carpenter Bee and the rare Cheese Snail.

Of historical interest is an Iron Age hill fort and cross-ridge dykes. The remains of a Napoleonic war telegraph station can be found on Beacon Hill, the highest point on Harting Down. In the last ten years we have reintroduced grazing in order to sustain the rich floristic and historical diversity.

South Downs Way

A section of the South Downs Way passes through here. This national trail is 100 miles long, stretching from Winchester to Eastbourne and takes in bow-backed hills covered in wild flowers, grassy valleys and old woodland.

It’s suitable for mountain biking, horse riding, long-distance walking or just a gentle stroll. To ride on other parts of Harting Down, you will need a permit; please phone our office.