Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve
Kingley Vale
One of the finest ancient yew woodlands in Europe, with some trees over two thousand years old, plus Bronze Age burial mounds and distant sea views from the hilltop.
The nature reserve lies on the southern slopes of the South Downs and contains the best-preserved yew forest in Europe. Some of the ancient trees are about 2,000 years old, their twisted branches shrouding the valley in shade, which has earned it the nickname ‘the mysterious forest.’ Climbing to the summit at Bow Hill reveals four Bronze Age burial mounds and views over Chichester Harbour to the Isle of Wight. The circular trail is about 5 km long and free. From the West Stoke car park, it takes about 20 minutes on foot to reach the valley entrance. The site is about 7 km northwest of Chichester city centre. Paths can be slippery after rain, so wear suitable footwear.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Fishbourne Roman Palace
- Bosham
- West Dean Gardens
- Chichester Festival Theatre
- Bishop's Palace Gardens
- The Novium Museum
- Chichester Cathedral
- Chichester Cross