Overview
Expect a steep climb, but one that’s well worth it. With superb views across the surrounding hills and valleys and its wealth of wildlife, Levin is a great example of chalk downland and scrub, rich in flowers and butterflies.
As full summer approaches, the floral mosaics of Levin reach their colourful best, with large patches of Bird’s-foot Trefoil and Kidney Vetch on the warmer slopes, and also Squinancywort, Wild Thyme and the beautiful pink flowered Centaury. Look out for Ravens, Red Kites, Buzzards, Kestrels, Yellowhammers and Skylarks.
Rob Eadie Volunteer Reserves ManagerMuch of the remaining chalk grassland in Sussex is north facing, so Levin’s south and east facing slopes are particularly special, especially for downland butterflies.
Know before you go
Opening times
The reserve is open at all times
Free to visit
All our open reserves our free to visit, but if you enjoy your visit please consider donating to Sussex Wildlife Trust to help us manage these special places
Size – 28 hectares
How to get here
Postcode: PO18 0HU
Levin Down is within walking distance of the villages of Singleton and Charlton via public footpaths. There’s a small parking lay-by at the crossroads in the nearby village of Charlton, and a public footpath leads directly across the field to the reserve.
A much longer, but less steep, walk up the track from the parking area leads to a gate at the north end of the reserve. There are gates at all entrances.
Getting around
Access is tricky for people with mobility challenges due to the very steep nature of the site from all entrances.
Dogs welcome
Dogs are welcome, but so that they do not affect other people and our wildlife, please keep them under close control and clean up after them.
Dogs need to be on leads when cattle are grazing this nature reserve.
Nearest toilet
The closest toilet is at the Fox Goes Free pub in Charlton.
For other nearby options visit Toilet Map.
Dos and don’ts
- Keep your dog on a lead around cattle
- No fires or barbecues
- No picking of flowers or foraging
- Take your litter home
- Enjoy the views
Juniper © Robert EadieThe story of the reserve
The reserve is leased from the Goodwood Estate, and has been managed by Sussex Wildlife Trust since 1981. It’s designated as a SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) for its rare chalk habitats.
For many years, the reserve was cared for by Ann Griffiths. As Volunteer Reserve Manager, Ann dedicated much of her life to the maintenance of the reserve and to the welfare of its rich downland wildlife.
Did you know?
Leave Alone Hill
The name Levin Down derives from ‘Leave Alone Hill’ meaning the land was too steep for the plough or other intensive agriculture.
Bloody noses
Look out in long grasses for the Lesser Bloody-nosed Beetle, named because, if startled, a foul-tasting red liquid flows from its mouth to deter predators!
Far sighted
From the top of the south slope is a view of the wonderful yew woodlands of Kingley Vale. Beyond, on a clear day, you can see the Isle of Wight, including the Culver cliffs – famous as the recent release site for White-tailed Eagles
