Black Down
Fernhurst, West Sussex
Image: National TrustThe highest point in the South Downs National Park, a heather-covered hill with one of the best views over the Weald from the Temple of the Winds. Easy tracks lead from free car parks through heathland and woods that inspired Tennyson.
Highlights
- Temple of the Winds viewpoint
- Highest point in the South Downs National Park
- Heather heathland in late summer
- Stargazing circular walk
Good to know
- No toilets on site; the nearest public toilets are at the Waitrose car park in Haslemere
- Dogs are welcome on leads
Getting there
Black Down, Tennyson's Lane, near Haslemere (the hill lies in West Sussex), GU27 3AFParking: Three free National Trust car parks on Tennyson's Lane: the main and middle car parks (postcode GU27 3AF) and a smaller lower car park (GU27 3BJ). The postal address is Haslemere, Surrey.
Get directionsChecked on 15 October 2026 against nationaltrust.org.uk. Details change, so please confirm with the venue before you travel. How we check
Nearby
Image: National TrustWoolbeding Gardens
A 26 acre garden on the edge of Midhurst, with distinctive garden rooms and colourful borders that flow into the Rother valley landscape. Follies include a classical Tulip Folly, a ruined abbey, a gothic summerhouse and a river-god grotto, alongside a striking ten-sided glasshouse and Silk Route garden.
Image: South Downs National ParkSouth Downs National Park
The South Downs National Park protects the chalk hills, woods and river valleys that run across Sussex and into Hampshire, including the Seven Sisters cliffs. The South Downs Way follows the ridge, and there are step-free Miles Without Stiles routes, some of the darkest skies in England and plenty of villages and vineyards to stop at.
Image: National TrustPetworth House and Park
A grand 17th-century house holding one of the National Trust's finest art collections, including Turner, Van Dyck and Gainsborough. Outside, a 700-acre deer park by 'Capability' Brown gives big South Downs views and room for a long walk.