Blackcap occupies over 600 acres along the ridge of the South Downs. From its peak there are spectacular views over the village of Plumpton and across The Weald to the north, and south to the coast.
A short walk to the south of Blackcap, is Ashcombe bottom, known locally as Bracky Bottom, because of the bracken growing in the coombe. Of all the bottoms over the South Downs, and this is truly one of the finest.
The area has Bronze Age and Saxon burial mounds, battle grounds and ancient trackways. It is believed that Simon de Montfort marched his army along this way to fight in the Battle of Lewes in 1264.
The National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty, known as the National Trust, conserves over 500 properties in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, such as historic houses, gardens, mills, coastline, forests, farmland, moorland, islands, castles, nature reserves, and even entire villages. It was established in 1895 and its first property was Alfriston Clergy House in East Sussex.
Many sites are in the countryside. When visiting please follow the Countryside Code. Leave only your footprints, take away only memories. If dogs are allowed, please keep them under control. Leave gates and property as you find them. Respect people, wildlife and property.
The National Trust is a registered charity and donations are gratefully received to fund important work. You may donate by clicking the Charity Link below.
Access to Blackcap is free.
Blackcap consists of several designated areas - National Park and Site of Special Scientific Interest.