Best mountain peaks around Kirdford are found within the broader West Sussex area, as Kirdford itself is situated in the undulating Low Weald with an average elevation of approximately 33 meters. While not featuring traditional mountain peaks, the region is adjacent to the South Downs National Park, which offers higher elevations and notable hills. Blackdown, the highest point in West Sussex and the South Downs National Park, reaches nearly 280 meters. The local geography provides a landscape of gentle rolling…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The views were amazing, after the 800 ft climb 😆
1
0
Black Down is the highest point in the South Downs National Park at 290 m. As such it is also is classified one of the UK's Marilyns. Expect a landscape of wavy hair grass, purple heather and pine trees.
0
0
One of the best views in the area, it is easy to see why it inspire Alfred Lord Tennyson. Also the highest point in the South Downs National Park.
0
0
Excellent hike. We had walked around here before, but this walk takes you off the main paths at times. We saw the first (native) bluebells poking their heads through and the damage done by the recent storms if anything increased the excellence of the views. One tip; the car park at the start is not big, but there is another one of similar size about 100 yds further on around the corner.
0
0
Absolutely amazing walk for everyone! Be it kids, young or elderly people. Beautiful views, nice trails and easy. If you're lucky, you'll even get to see some playful deers.
0
0
A short walk from the bridleway to the viewpoint that overlooks all of West Sussex and the South Downs
0
0
Can be busy, but plenty of quieter areas nearby. Worth sitting down and enjoying the view before heading back down.
0
0
The most popular elevated spots near Kirdford include Temple of the Wind Viewpoint, known for its expansive vistas, and Black Down Summit and Viewpoint, which offers 360-degree views from its extensive wooded area.
The highest point in the South Downs National Park, and indeed in Sussex, is Black Down (279.7 m). It reaches nearly 280 meters and is accessible via footpaths, making it a notable UK Marilyn.
Yes, Temple of the Wind Viewpoint is categorized as family-friendly. While the ascent can be significant, the rewarding views make it a great destination for families.
The region around Kirdford, particularly within the South Downs National Park, features gentle rolling hills, ancient woodlands, heathland, and scrub. Elevated areas like Black Down offer extensive forest and valley views, providing a diverse natural landscape.
You can find various hiking trails around Kirdford. For example, routes like 'Bedham Church Ruins – Bedham Old Church loop' or 'Old Mill Café loop from Wisborough Green' offer easy to moderate options. For more details and routes, explore the Hiking around Kirdford guide.
Yes, the area offers gravel biking opportunities. Routes such as 'Rudgwick Double Bridge – Parkstreet Lane Bridge loop' provide moderate challenges, while others like 'Parkstreet Lane Bridge – Rudgwick Double Bridge loop from Rudgwick' are easier. Check the Gravel biking around Kirdford guide for more routes.
Visitors frequently praise the expansive and 360-degree views from spots like Temple of the Wind Viewpoint and Black Down Summit and Viewpoint. Many highlight the rewarding feeling after an ascent and the chance to explore the natural wonders within the wooded summit areas.
Kirdford itself is in the Low Weald with undulating land. However, the nearby South Downs National Park features rolling hills with varied terrain, including forest paths, heathland, and some steeper ascents to viewpoints and summits. Trails can range from easy to difficult.
While Kirdford is in a gentler landscape, the broader West Sussex area and the South Downs National Park offer more challenging trails. Ascents to summits like Black Down involve significant climbs, and some hiking routes in the area are rated as 'difficult', such as the 'Hesworth Common – Bedham Old Church loop'.
Kirdford is situated near the South Downs National Park, which is home to significant natural monuments. Black Down Summit and Viewpoint and Black Down (279.7 m) are both recognized as natural monuments and are the highest points in West Sussex and the South Downs National Park.
The region offers beauty year-round. Clear mornings are particularly recommended for the best views from elevated points like Temple of the Wind. Visiting after a fresh snowfall in winter can also offer a unique and beautiful experience, especially at Black Down.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity. Options range from easy loops like 'Running loop from Wisborough Green' to moderate routes such as 'Kirdford Coffee Van – Kirdford Village Stores loop'. You can find more details in the Running Trails around Kirdford guide.
Black Down is significant as it is the highest hill in Sussex, reaching 279.7 meters (918 ft), and holds the title of the highest point within the South Downs National Park. It's a UK listed Marilyn, offering extensive wooded areas and 360-degree views that can stretch all the way to the sea on a clear day.


See even more amazing summits around Kirdford with these guides: