Wild Park

Wild Park is the largest Local Nature Reserve in Brighton and Hove, a sweep of downland on the northern edge of the city beside Lewes Road. Covering about 240 hectares (roughly 593 acres), it combines woodland, open chalk grassland and a prehistoric hillfort, all within easy reach of the urban area.

What is Wild Park?

The park is a protected green space owned and managed by Brighton and Hove City Council. Its status as a Local Nature Reserve reflects the value of its habitats: tracts of woodland, chalk grassland, patches of chalk scrub and grazing fields that attract seed-eating birds. A dew pond, a traditional water source on the dry chalk hills, adds further variety for wildlife.

What is there to see?

The best-known landmark is Hollingbury Castle, an Iron Age hillfort that lies within the reserve. It is a Scheduled Monument, protected by law since 4 August 1933. The ramparts sit on high ground, so a walk up to the fort rewards you with wide views over the city. Within the reserve boundary you will also find Hollingbury Park golf course.

Parts of the grassland are managed by sheep grazing, a traditional method that keeps scrub in check and helps chalk wildflowers and insects thrive. If you visit, keep to paths and follow any signs about livestock.

How do you walk it?

Woodland paths cross the park, and the most talked-about route is a steep track locals call the "ski slope" that climbs towards Hollingbury fort. It is a demanding ascent, so wear sturdy shoes. The effort is repaid by sweeping views of Brighton and beyond.

The park also has a café and sports facilities, including two football pitches and a multi-use games area, so it works for a relaxed family outing as well as a more energetic hike.

Practical information

• Location: Lewes Road, Brighton, East Sussex (postcode BN1 9JS).
• Opening: the park is open all year round.
• Best for: walks, views over the city, history lovers, birdwatching and picnics.
• Terrain: hilly, with some steep sections.

Frequently asked questions

Is Wild Park free to enter? It is a public open space that is always open, so you can walk in at any time of year.

What is Hollingbury Castle? It is an Iron Age hillfort inside the park, now a Scheduled Monument. Its earthworks occupy a hilltop with far-reaching views.

Who looks after the park? Brighton and Hove City Council owns and manages it. Residents who would like to help with conservation work can contact the council's city parks team.

Can I see wildlife here? Yes. The mix of woodland, chalk grassland, scrub and a dew pond supports a range of species, and the grazing fields are popular with seed-eating birds.

Is it suitable for a short visit? Yes. You can stroll the lower paths in under an hour or climb to the hillfort for a longer outing.

Wild Park shows how much countryside survives inside Brighton's limits: ancient earthworks, grazed chalk hills and woodland, a short trip from the city centre.