Beacon Batch circular from Rowberrow

Black Down was a decoy site for Bristol during the Second World War. Decoy lights, fires and an anti-aircraft battery were installed to lure enemy aircraft from attacking Bristol.

Two control buildings can still be seen on the down and there are rows of mounds and cairns across the top that were built to prevent aircraft from landing.

Around the summit of Beacon Batch there are numerous Bronze Age barrows known as Beacon Batch cemetery. 

This route starts in the village of Rowberrow and follows the pretty valley of Rowberrow Bottom before you climb up the wooded, western side of Black Down.

Near the top you leave the woods of Rowberrow Warren and continue over the heathland to the summit of Beacon Batch.

You can return the way you came or drop down to the Limestone Link which gives you a lovely circular walk back along the base of Black Down.

In spring the flowers along here are beautiful and there are caverns to be found.