Devil’s Dyke

Devil's Dyke, the most visited site on the South Downs, hangs on the edge of the chalk escarpment, just to the north of Brighton.  Perhaps as many as 1 million visitors arrive here each year but very few will know of the amazing history of the hilltop and the surrounding countryside.

This view from Devil's Dyke Iron Age hillfort looking west, illustrates the dramatic location of the hillfort, dominating the lower-lying (and mist-filled) Weald to the north. The motte and bailey at Edburton is just visible in the middle distance and the far horizon is dominated by the aerials and masts at Truleigh Hill Cold War listening post.

The Iron Age defences that encircle the hill emphasise the spectacular location above the steep chalk valley - the Devil's Dyke - but there is a wealth of earlier, and later, historic features that enrich the story of how this landscape developed through time.

Walking out from Devil's Dyke reveals a landscape in which Bronze Age burial mounds can be seen as well as the outlines of prehistoric fields and settlements.  Indeed, there are traces of all periods including a spectacular motte and bailey earthwork castle at Edburton and top secret Cold War installations at Truleigh Hill.

Why not download the Devil's Dyke map, follow Al's walking route and experience the landscape for yourself - all easily doable within a few hours!