EXPLORE
Steyning Coombe
Species-rich downland grassland with wonderful views
Chalk Grassland
Steyning Coombe commands panoramic views across Steyning and Upper Beeding to the Low Weald and Truleigh Hill beyond. It can only be reached on foot, either by following Allotments Lane up the hill from Mill Road in Steyning, or dropping down through the Horseshoe woods above it.
The Coombe is a quiet place to sit and relax. But beneath its apparent tranquility, an ongoing battle rages between the species-rich chalk grassland, and the ever-invading scrub and brambles.
The Coombe is also home to one of our largest species-reintroduction programmes. Thousands of home-grown Cowslip and Primrose were planted to attract the rare Duke of Burgundy butterfly.
Planting Cowslip and Primrose
What You Can See
Steyning Coombe has some of our most diverse species-rich chalk grassland, particularly towards the top of the slope. In late spring, look out for the butter-yellow flowers of Horseshoe Vetch, which is a host plant of the Adonis Blue butterfly. In late summer and autumn, the spiky cream flowers of Carline Thistle can be found and if you look carefully, you may see Autumn Ladies Tresses, our latest flowering orchid.
At the top of the slope is a small enclosure we built to protect two Juniper trees, a male and a female. Juniper is threatened with extinction on the South Downs and we hope to encourage a thriving population to develop there.
Pryamidal Orchid
Adonis Blue Butterfly
Female Juniper Bush
Wild Thyme
What We Have Done
Years of scrub cutting by dedicated teams of Conservation Volunteers have gradually opened up the area, creating a mosaic of scrub and species-rich chalk grassland. The work continues annually, in the autumn and winter months when most wildlife is dormant, cutting and clearing invading Dogwood, Wayfaring Tree and Bramble.
Every year we cary out botanical, bird and butterfly surveys of the Coombe to monitor the changing fortunes of the habitat. We also graze with Dexter cattle to keep the grass in check, maintain gates, fences and seating and keep the information board in good condition.
Our Future Plans
Our main objective is to continue clearing scrub, which will open up more opportunities for rare chalk grassland species to recolonise. We also plan to focus conservation work on establishing a strong colony of Juniper at the top of the hill.
In 2016, we improved the habitat of the very rare Duke of Burgundy butterfly to recolonise by planting thousands of Cowslip and Primrose plants. Carrying out further restoration work to maintain this habitat is also a priority, as funds allow.
How You Can Help
As a registered charity, we depend upon the support of our Friends and donors. There are many ways to support us, and help wildlife thrive.
Find Out More
Volunteer With Us
Everyone is welcome to become involved, regardless of skills, age or experience. Discover the many ways you can lend a hand.
Find Out More