Black Down
Good walks are even better shared.
Explore routes near Black Down
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Box Hill - Stepping Stones Circuit
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Devil's Dyke, Newtimber Hill and Fulking Hill walk
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Virginia Water Circlular
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Richmond Park - The Tasmin Trail
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Black Down Trail
A scenic route winding through woodlands and open grassland, featuring gentle slopes that lead to the summit.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
281m
921 ft
Prominence
192m
Coordinates
51.0586, -0.6894
SU919296
OS Map
186 197
Explorer: OL33 133
At the Summit
The summit features a distinct trig point marking the highest point, surrounded by open grassland and the occasional curious sheep.
Terrain & Geology
The summit is primarily composed of chalk along with some flint deposits, forming part of the geological landscape that is characteristic of the South Downs.
Views & Scenery
Panoramic views of the South Downs, including glimpses of distant landmarks such as the city of Chichester and the coast of West Sussex.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Black Down' likely derives from the dark flint that caps the summit, distinguishing it from surrounding hills.
Historical Significance
Rich in natural history, the area is part of the historical route of the South Downs Way, used for centuries by shepherds and traders.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There is a small car park at the entrance to the trail near the village of Fernhurst, suitable for about 10 cars.
Public Transport
Regular bus services run from Haslemere, with the nearest station being Haslemere on the mainline to London.
Nearby Facilities
Cafes and pubs can be found in Fernhurst and Haslemere, providing refreshments and toilet facilities.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- None particularly, but be mindful of sudden weather changes in the South Downs, which could catch you off guard during your jaunt.
General Safety Tips
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
- Let someone know your planned route
- Take a map, compass, and GPS device
- Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Black Down?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Black Down through the maps
Are there other walkers around Black Down?
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Black Down search or of course create your own walk for Black Down
Can I organise a walk to Black Down?
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Black Down.
How do I find a walk up this hill?
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Can I suggest a new route up Black Down?
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Black Down here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: SU919296
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
Nearby Hills
Leith Hill
294m
Ditchling Beacon
248m
Worcestershire Beacon
425m
Glastonbury Tor
158m
Titterstone Clee Hill
533m
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