Superb chalk grassland and scrub with many typical and rare flowers and butterflies, all within easy walking distance of Lewes town centre
photo Neil Fletcher
nearest town: Lewes
highlights: Chalk grassland flowers including orchids, round-headed rampion and autumn gentian. Many butterflies such as Adonis, common and chalkhill blue. Fabulous views, peace and tranquillity within minutes of town.
access: This nature 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. The south-facing (or most northerly) face of the Coombe is the most rewarding part for different chalkland flowers.
size: 78 hectare
nature reserve map: Nature Reserve guide map (.pdf)
more information: Malling Down, Mount Caburn and Southerham nature reserve leaflet and walking guide (pdf)
Nature Reserve guide entry (.pdf)
local links Lewes Downs Project
