Fun days out at Devil's Dyke

Cyclists riding through Devil's Dyke Estate — Devil's Dyke Estate, South Downs, Sussex

With its stunning panoramic views, Devil’s Dyke is a fantastic spot to run around, let off steam, explore the countryside and celebrate the great outdoors. What adventures will you have on a visit to us?

Walking

Panoramic view at sunset in August from Devil's Dyke, South Downs, West Sussex — Enjoy a walk along the South Downs

Devil's Dyke may be famous for stunning views, but just five minutes from the car park you will find the deepest and widest dry valley in Britain. Everywhere you walk on this rich and diverse downland site history surrounds you, from Iron Age forts to Victorian funfairs. So, after you have taken in the view go and explore Sussex's most iconic hill fort. Follow one of our downloadable trails or simply wander where you will - the extensive network of footpaths and open access land make this the perfect place to explore and have adventures on foot.

Cycling

A network of bridleways criss-cross the Devil's Dyke estate and offer great cycling for both novice riders and the more experienced mountain-bikers. Families can enjoy the flat trail along the tops of the downs, whilst the more adventurous can dip down off the top of the ridge and discover the villages and pubs scattered across the Weald at the foot of the downs.

Wildlife wonders and minibeast safaris

Take a walk away from the crowds to an open patch of grassland and listen to the chorus of skylarks singing from the skies. These shy and nationally rare birds are found in abundance here on the South Downs, and make their nests in the longer grassland.

This is the time to really see chalk grassland at its best - a living carpet of colourful flowers and flying insects. The valley now turns pink with common spotted orchids. In the meadow, near the car park, get on your hands and knees to find burnet moth caterpillars making their cocoons. Burnet moths are out in force and in good years nearly every flower will have this beautiful moth visiting it. Go into the valley to see what truly ancient chalk grassland looks like.

50 things to do before you're 11¾

Are you up for our '50 things to do before you're 11¾' challenge? There are loads of things to tick off your list at Devil's Dyke. To start, why not find a geocache or climb a huge hill, and then get cracking with the rest of your list. We think you can tick off at least another 28 things here.

Hang-gliding

A paraglider sails almost overhead in the sunshine — Modern paragliders can be soared effortlessly on windward slopes

Devil's Dyke is one of Europe's finest sites for paragliding and hang-gliding. For those who would rather keep both feet firmly on the ground, the sight of the gliders soaring above is spectacular.

Kite flying

Don't miss out on perfect place for kite flying with the family. Walk five minutes from the carpark and you will find plenty of space to play with your kite as you launch it up, up and away.