History at Devil's Dyke

Over the years this well-known beauty spot has attracted and amused a whole cross-section of society.

Aerial view of Devil's Dyke fortifications

Ancient footfalls and fortifications

The South Downs Way which runs across Devil’s Dyke has its origins in an ancient track that has been used by humans for more than 2,000 years.

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Myths and Mysteries

The Devil tries to dig through the South Downs

Devil’s Dyke myths and legends

The Devil is never very far away in the myths and legends of this downland beauty spot.

The Howling Terror

In July 1900 the peace of Devil’s Dyke was suddenly shattered by a horrendous din that hurtled over the South Downs and terrified the locals.

Heading for the hills

Victorian tourists stroll around the Devil's Dyke funfair

A leisure playground on the South Downs

The early popularity of Devil's Dyke quickly grew and by Victorian times it had become a major tourist attraction.

Taking the train

You may be surprised to learn that you could once travel to Devil's Dyke by train.

In times of conflict

Public notice warns of bomb testing in 1918

First World War bomb testing

Devil’s Dyke did not remain untouched by the horrors of the First World War.

Military plane shot down over Devil's Dyke

Devil’s Dyke mobilised for war

Devil’s Dyke was transformed by military occupants during the Second World War. Soldiers from Canada, Australia and New Zealand trained on the South Downs to repel any invasion.