Devil’s Dyke myths and legends

The Devil tries to dig through the South Downs

Early settlers on the South Downs told tales of Satan’s mischief to explain how Devil’s Dyke was formed. Could the mysterious humps at the bottom of the valley be further evidence of the Devil’s presence?

How the Dyke was formed

Listen to the legend of how the Dyke valley was created.

The Legend of how Devil's Dyke cme to be Play Video
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The legend of Devil's Dyke

Satan’s bid to wipe out Christianity by digging through the South Downs and flooding the Weald.

The Devil's graves

If you walk to the bottom of the Dyke valley you will find two humps of earth. It is said that the Devil and his wife are buried here.

Mysterious humps at the foot of Devil's Dyke
Mysterious humps at the foot of Devil's Dyke
Mysterious humps at the foot of Devil's Dyke

Legend has it that if you run backwards seven times around these humps whilst holding your breath the Devil will appear.