Blackcap bostal white against the dusk on the South Downs — Blackcap bostal, an ancient drove way on the South Downs | © National Trust/ Hannah Pickard

Sussex

A walk at Blackcap

Enjoy a circular walk around this secluded gem with sunken bostals, a hidden woodland, views over the Weald and fascinating history. 'Bostal' is a Sussex term for a way up a hill on the South Downs.

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Total steps: 6

Start point

Layby on B2116, grid ref: TQ381129

Step 1

Cross the road from the lay-by, go through the gate and straight up the main chalk track slightly to the right.

Step 2

Stay on the main track until until you get to the top of hill. 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.

Step 3

From the viewpoint, continue on the main track as it starts to head downhill.

Step 4

Continue down the hill, taking the track to the right of the crest of the ridge.

Step 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; 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.

Step 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 point

Layby on B2116, grid ref: TQ381129

Trail map

Map route for a walk at Blackcap | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey

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A walk at Blackcap

Total steps: 6