It is located in the centre of the island, south of Carisbrooke and west of Gatcombe,[1] and is one of the best remaining inland examples of unimproved chalk downland.

An area of 20.3 hectares (50 acres) was notified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1971 for its biological features.

[2] The down is situated in a remote area and provides extensive views over the surrounding countryside and distant coast.

The upper slopes are characterised by a layer of flinty gravel and the whole site is grazed by sheep.

The chalk grassland is dominated by sheep's fescue and includes a wide range of herbs, with an average of 33 species being recorded in every square metre (11 sq ft).