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Devil's Dyke
A legendary beauty spot on the South Downs
Devil's Dyke, Nr Brighton, West Sussex
Opening times for 7 December 2023
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Pub
The Devil's Dyke Vintage Inn pub (not NT)
Dogs
Dogs are welcome everywhere on the South Downs. Please keep them under control and close to you at all times, making sure to stick to main paths, bridleways and tracks. Please use a lead when walking near livestock and wildlife. You will often see sheep or cattle grazing on the downs.
Mobility parking in the Devil's Dyke car park directly outside the pub. Grassy paths near the Devil's Dyke car park, naturally uneven woodland routes, can be muddy after wet weather. Dogs welcome but kept on leads around livestock.
Designated parking
There is a designated Blue Badge space in front of the main pub by the cycle racks.
By road
Devil's Dyke car park is 2 miles north of A27 Brighton ring road, and just off A281. Take the Hove junction from the A27 and head north (signposted to Devils Dyke). Follow the road and keep bearing left at any junctions until you reach the Dyke. (Unfortunately there is no post code for the car park).
Parking: Pay & display parking at Devil's Dyke. £1.50 for 1 hour; £3 for up to 2 hours; £6 all day. National Trust members and Blue Badge holders park free. National Trust members should scan their membership cards at the machine and collect the ticket to display in their car. Suitable for coaches. Free car parking [limited spaces] at Summer Down Road
Sat Nav: Devil's Dyke: Easting 525844, Northing 110977 Summer Down Road: Easting 526968,Northing 111104
On foot
Devil's Dyke lies on the South Downs Way, a popular 100 mile long National Trail running from Winchester to Eastbourne. A variety of other footpaths lead to Devil's Dyke from all directions: Brighton 5 miles, local villages Fulking and Poynings both 1 mile
By train
Brighton train station 6 miles. A train ticket gets you a '2-for-1' offer on adult single and return tickets, or a 1/3 discount on a full adult single fare, on the 77 service bus to Devil's Dyke. Just show the bus driver your valid train ticket
By bus
The 77 bus travels up to Devil's Dyke from the centre of Brighton, passing the pier and train station. The bus runs every day in summer, weekends and Bank Holidays in spring and autumn, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays in winter (except Christmas Day). Each paying adult can take two children on this bus for free. A bus leaflet called 'Breeze up to the Dyke' is available. For more info, check Brighton & Hove Breeze Buses . A regular bus service 17 runs between Brighton and Poynings, from where it is a pleasant 25 minute uphill walk to Devil's Dyke. For enquiries and general journey planning, call 01273 292480
By bicycle
The South Downs Way is suitable for off-road cycling, involving some rough ground, ascent and descent. The disused railway line cycle path runs from Hangleton near Hove to Devil's Dyke, it offers about 4 miles of family-friendly cycling on a paved path up gentle slopes, part of NCN route 20, Brighton to Crawley. There are a variety of other bridleways and cycle paths north and south of the area
Planning your visit
Article
Visiting the South Downs with your dog
Find out about bringing your dog to the South Downs. Explore the beautiful landscape together, from cliff-tops and beaches to ancient downland.
Highlights
Dyke
At nearly a mile long, the Dyke valley is the longest, deepest and widest 'dry valley' in the UK.
Things to see and do
Article
Things to see and do at Devil's Dyke
With its panoramic landscape, Devil's Dyke is one of the most stunning places to pass the time. Whether walking, cycling or taking in the scenery, there’s something for all.
Top trails
Trail
Devil's Dyke histories and mysteries walk
A good three mile walk which takes you to the alleged burial site of the Devil and beyond to Saddlescombe Farm and the donkey wheel.
Trail
Wolstonbury Hill explore nature walk
This walk takes you through beech woodland and across open grassland, and as a Special Site of Scientific Interest you'll find a variety of plants and wildlife. Visit in the spring to see bluebells and smell the wild garlic.
Trail
Ditchling Beacon to Devil's Dyke, South Downs walk
This route will take you through some of the most stunning parts of the South Downs Way, where you will find wildlife aplenty and see extensive views from the Ditchling Beacon.
Trail
Fulking pub walk
A moderate circular walk, starting and finishing at the Shepherd and Dog pub, comprising ancient landscapes and breathtaking views.
Trail
Fulking archaeology walk
Take an archaeological walk through time along the South Downs on this circular route. Follow the glorious contours of the Sussex Downs: on one side is the Weald, and on the other the sea.
Trail
Walking in the South Downs: day one
Day one of this tried-and-tested walk across the magnificent South Downs takes in sights such as Devil's Dyke and the historic Saddlescombe Farm.
Trail
Devil's Dyke butterfly walk
Follow this short but hilly route over the downs for a chance to see Adonis and chalkhill blue, green hairstreak, brown argus, dark-green fritillary and silver-spotted skipper.
About Devil's Dyke
Devil’s Dyke, just five miles north of Brighton, offers stunning panoramas, a record breaking valley, a curious history and England’s most colourful habitat.
At nearly a mile long, the Dyke valley is the longest, deepest and widest 'dry valley' in the UK. Legend has it that the Devil dug this chasm to drown the parishioners of the Weald. On the other hand, scientists believe it was formed naturally just over 10,000 years ago in the last ice age.
With a little exploring the Dyke's story starts to reveal itself: The ramparts or walls of the Iron Age hill fort can be seen when you walk around the hill and the remains of the curious Victorian funfair can be found just a few minutes from the car park. Venture into the valley and you will discover a living carpet of flowers and a myriad of colourful insects.
When John Constable described the panorama from Devil’s Dyke as 'the grandest view in the world', he wasn’t wrong, but there is so much more to discover here than just a beautiful view.
History
Article
The history, myths and legends of Devil's Dyke
Devil's Dyke is an iconic landform in the heart of the South Downs, home to rare wildlife and many myths and legends. Discover its rich history stretching back thousands of years.
Our work
Article
Our work at Devil's Dyke
The chalk grassland at Devil's Dyke is rare and endangered. Find out how we are keeping invasive plants at bay by grazing Dartmoor ponies, helping wildflowers and wildlife thrive.
Project
Project
Changing Chalk partnership
The South Downs have been a place to live, work and play for thousands of years. Together we can make sure they will be enjoyed for thousands more. Learn how the projects of the Changing Chalk partnership, led by the National Trust, are restoring lost habitats, bringing histories to life, and providing new outdoor experiences across the eastern South Downs, and discover how you can get involved.