Blackdown Wood

Wood, Forest in Sussex Rother

England

Blackdown Wood

Hop Garden near Witherenden An uncommon sight these days, one of the few hop gardens in an area in the High Weald that used to be famous for hop growing. This is in early spring when the trellis has been strung, and the fresh bines are just emerging. — Hop Garden near Witherenden Credit: David Saunders

Blackdown Wood is a picturesque woodland located in Sussex, England. Situated on the slopes of the South Downs, this ancient forest covers an area of approximately 150 hectares. The wood is predominantly composed of oak and beech trees, creating a dense canopy that provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

The forest floor is covered in a thick layer of leaf litter, creating a rich and fertile ground for a diverse range of plant species to flourish. Bluebells, primroses, and wild garlic are just a few of the vibrant flowers that bloom in the spring, creating a stunning display of colors.

Blackdown Wood is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Bird species such as woodpeckers, nuthatches, and tawny owls can be spotted within the wood, while deer, foxes, and badgers roam the forest floor. The wood also supports a rich insect population, with butterflies and dragonflies fluttering through the air during the warmer months.

The woodland is crisscrossed by a network of footpaths and trails, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its natural beauty. A popular route is the Blackdown Circular Walk, which takes hikers through the heart of the wood, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Blackdown Wood is not only a haven for wildlife, but also a place of historical significance. The wood has remnants of ancient settlements, including a Bronze Age barrow and an Iron Age hill fort, adding to its cultural and archaeological value.

Overall, Blackdown Wood is a captivating forest that showcases the stunning natural beauty of Sussex, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and explore its rich history.

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Blackdown Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.992346/0.33343509 or Grid Reference TQ6324. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Hop Garden near Witherenden

An uncommon sight these days, one of the few hop gardens in an area in the High Weald that used to be famous for hop growing. This is in early spring when the trellis has been strung, and the fresh bines are just emerging.

David Saunders

Wheel Inn, Burwash Weald

This inn is sited on the A265 in a High Weald village which straggles along the road. It has a traditional tile-hung frontage on its first floor.

Colin Smith

The Oast House, Burwash Weald

Oast houses are common not only in Kent, but also across the county border in East Sussex. Like this one, they are often now converted into exclusive houses retaining the distinctive round tower with its white cowl.

Colin Smith

Burwash Weald on the A265

The A265 has many straight stretches as it runs over the ridges of the High Weald. This village suffers from one of the higher speed limits imposed on drivers. Many Wealden villages, like this one, are sited on the ridges or on hill tops - above formerly ill-drained and wooded river valleys.

Colin Smith

Oast House Weather Vane

Oast houses have distinctive white cowls on top of their towers. These swivel in the wind to catch the breeze for drying the hops below. This converted oast house in Burwash Weald has a distinctive weather vane attached which reflects the local sheep-rearing industry.

Colin Smith