Ditchling Beacon

Panoramic views from the top of world
Panoramic views from the top of world
Ditchling Beacon is located 7 miles to the north of Brighton and just south of the village of Ditchling. At 248 metres above sea-level, Ditchling Beacon is the highest point in East Sussex and offers commanding 360 degree views from its summit. Look south out to sea, north across the Weald or east-west across the Downs.
As the name suggests, Ditchling Beacon was once the site for a warning beacon. Visible for miles around, the Beacon would be maintained ready to light in times of imminent invasion.
The site is also of archaeological interest, with remains of an Iron Age hillfort.
Neighbouring Ditchling Down lies to the west of Ditchling Beacon, and is a prime example of chalk downland. Walk the path along the scarp slope, passing through the disused chalk pits grazed by sheep and dotted with wild flowers throughout spring and summer.
Please note: Ditchling Beacon car park is just off Ditchling Road. OS TQ 333130, Coordinates 50.9008406000, -0.1051855090. NT members can park for free. There is a charge of £3 per day for non-members which goes towards the conservation and management of the site. Payment for parking for non-members at Ditchling Beacon must be made with cash at the car park machine or using the PayByPhone system. It’s quick and easy to use – either use the PayByPhone smartphone app on the site or call ahead from home on 03300604037. All you need to start is your car’s registration and the Ditchling Beacon location number 803351. You will also be asked to key in your credit or debit card number. There’s no need to display a ticket after paying in this way as a record is generated for our car park staff. To pay online and for more information go to www.paybyphone.co.uk. Paying prior to arrival cannot guarantee you a parking space.
Most of our places run the Gift Aid on Entry scheme at their admission points.
Under this scheme, if you're not a member you have the choice of two entry tickets:
If the place runs Gift Aid on Entry, we'll offer you a clear choice between the Gift Aid Admission prices and the Standard Admission prices at the admission point. It's entirely up to you which ticket you choose.
Gift Aid Admission includes a 10 per cent or more voluntary donation. Gift Aid Admissions let us reclaim tax on the whole amount paid - an extra 25 per cent - potentially a very significant boost to our places' funds.
An extra £1 paid under the scheme can be worth over £3 to the National Trust as shown below:
Gift Aid | Standard | |
---|---|---|
Amount paid by visitor | £11.00 | £10.00 |
Tax refund from Government* | £2.75 | £0.00 |
Total received by the National Trust | £13.75 | £10.00 |
*Gift Aid Admissions let us reclaim tax on the whole amount paid - an extra 25 per cent - potentially a very significant boost to our places' funds.