Stargazing circular walk at Black Down
At the highest point in Surrey, away from the light pollution of nearby towns, Black Down is an ideal spot for stargazing. On a clear night, there are around 4,000 stars visible, including the Milky Way. This leisurely walk takes in some of the best viewpoints, as well as a chance to encounter nighttime wildlife.
Stargazing tips
Stargazing is best done before the moon is full and on a clear night. Take binoculars for a closer look from the viewpoints and a torch for safety while you walk.
Total steps: 5
Total steps: 5
Start point
Tennyson's Lane car park, grid ref SU921308
Step 1
From the car park on Tennyson's Lane, take the main stone-surfaced track out onto Black Down (there is a second car park further up this track). Go through the gate, passing a notice board. Head through a gully and past a bench. Continue along the main track, ignoring paths to your left and right. During the day, there are views from here over The Weald to the east.
Step 2
Continue past some small ponds on your right. In daylight hours, there are extensive views to the north from here.
Step 3
Carry on along the main path to a small grassy triangle with a birch tree. Turn left and follow the path here to a bench, which is an ideal spot for stargazing. Back on the main path, continue for a further 20m (65ft) or so before turning left. Continue along this track, ignoring the next left turn.
Step 4
Turn right at a crossroads to the Beech Hanger Woodland. Take a sharp left onto the path back towards the car park.
Step 5
Continue north along the main path back to your starting point at the car park.
End point
Tennyson's Lane car park, grid ref SU921308
Trail map
More near here
Black Down Temple of the Winds trail
Find one of the best views of the South Downs National Park at the Temple of the Winds. This little-known spot has a secret feel and a charming curved stone seat to rest on.
Shottermill to Marley Common and Cognor Wood walk
Walk past ancient millponds onto Marley Common with its impressive beech trees, then through woods into a working sweet chestnut coppice and on to a meadow buzzing with wildlife in summer.
Get in touch
Black Down, Tennyson's Lane, Haslemere, Surrey, GU27 3AF
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Top spots for stargazing
The open night skies in the countryside mean you’ll see thousands of sparkling stars and planets. Take a look at our guide and find the best places in our care to go stargazing.
Things to see and do at Black Down
With plenty to see and do on a visit, Black Down, the highest point in the South Downs National Park, is a great place to walk, run, cycle and celebrate the great outdoors.
The history of Black Down
Prehistoric flints, ancient tracks across the land and so much more – our research reveals treasures in this fantastic landscape.
Walking in Surrey
From hilltop hikes with some of the finest views of the Surrey Hills to gentle wanders through ancient woodlands, these are some of the best walks in Surrey.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.