Devil’s Dyke

Devil's Dyke got its name from a legend. The legend says the devil was furious at the conversion of the people of the Weald to Christianity and decided to dig a dyke through the South Downs, so the sea could flow in and drown their villages.

With its panoramic views across the South Downs, Devil's Dyke is a fantastic spot to run around, let off steam, explore the countryside and celebrate the great outdoors. The rare chalk grassland is teeming with wildlife, and the choice of footpaths will lead you off an adventure whichever way you turn.

About Devil's Dyke 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.

At this location the following are free to access for all visitors: access to Devil's Dyke. At this location the following areas are free to access for National Trust members but payable for everyone else: parking. Parking is free for National Trust members and Blue Badge holders but chargeable for all other visitors.