Superb chalk grassland and scrub with many typical and rare flowers and butterflies, all within easy walking distance of Lewes town centre

Stand almost anywhere in Lewes and Malling Down dominates the view to the east, its chalk hills towering up and overlooking the town. It really is worth the challenging climb to the top, if only for the view that takes in the town, the wet meadows surrounding the River Ouse, the South Downs stretching away, or the expanse of the Low Weald farmland. In summer however, there are a thousand things to command the attention.

What you can see

Chalk grassland flowers. Many butterflies such as adonis, common and chalkhill blue. Fabulous views, peace and tranquillity.

Getting around

This reserve is easily reached on foot from Lewes town centre – head east and there is a small entrance in Wheatsheaf Gardens opposite the petrol station, but there is no room to park cars here. Other access points are possible from Mill Road or the lay-by on the Ringmer Road. As there is grazing at different times of the year, there are fences, gates and stiles, and some paths are very steep. The gentlest route to the top is to approach from Mill Road.

photo Neil Flecther