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Things to see and do at Devil's Dyke

September at Devil's Dyke, South Downs, West Sussex
September at Devil's Dyke | © National Trust Images/John Miller

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.

Walking at Devil's Dyke

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. History surrounds you everywhere you walk on this rich and diverse downland site, from the remains of Iron Age forts to the site of Victorian funfairs.

After you have taken in the view, explore Sussex's most iconic hillfort, follow one of the signposted trails or simply wander. The extensive network of footpaths and open-access land make this the perfect place to explore and have adventures on foot.

Guided winter walk at Devil's Dyke, West Sussex
Guided winter walk at Devil's Dyke, West Sussex | © National Trust Images/Laurence Perry

Cycling at Devil's Dyke

A network of bridleways criss-crosses the Devil's Dyke estate and offers great cycling for both novice riders and more experienced mountain-bikers. Families can enjoy the flat trail along the tops of the downs, while 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.

Three mountain bike cyclists at Devil's Dyke Estate, South Downs, West Sussex
Three mountain bike cyclists at Devil's Dyke Estate | © ©National Trust Images/Leo Mason

Discover the wildlife at Devil's Dyke

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 nationally rare birds are found in abundance here on the South Downs and make their nests in the longer grassland. Please be careful not to disturb them with dogs in the nesting season. 

Head into the valley to see what truly ancient chalk grassland looks like. The rare chalk grassland is a living carpet of colourful flowers and flying insects, particularly in the spring when bright yellow cowslips carpet the hillsides and summer when the valley turns pink with wild thyme.  

Hang-gliding and kite-flying at Devil's Dyke

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. 

Don't miss out on the perfect place for kite flying. Walk five minutes from the car park and you will find plenty of space to launch your kite.

Chalk path ascends at Devil's Dyke, South Downs, West Sussex in September

Discover more at Devil's Dyke

Find out how to get to Devil's Dyke, where to park, the things to see and do and more.

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