A solitary sarsen across the road from the Ditchling Beacon car park. I’ve added this because they’re such a rarity in this part of the world. Does anyone know where it came from, whether it is of any significance, part of a long-gone circle or a marker of some sort?
Another group of 3 round barrows on the South Downs Way East of Ditchling beacon.
The Westmeston Bostal which winds its way up southwards on to the South Downs Way and emerges between two groups of (now barely visible) round barrows.
A small group of 3 round barrows sited between the Clayton windmills and Ditchling Beacon, looking East on the South Downs Way.
The footpath along the edge of the escarpment leading up to Ditchling Beacon. Not sure if this was some sort of low dyke along the edge as it would hardly have been necessary given the drop to the North.
Part of the northern edge of Ditchling Beacon next to the escarpment (looking South).
20/03/2016 – The highest top on our walk from Lewes. Not too much to see round the trigpoint. We had a sit and took in the view north, which is very good. Lots of people there having Sunday strolls. Makes you wonder how long these paths have been walked.
As the link explains, in early sources the fort is known as ‘Ditchling Castle’ but since it was used as a beacon site for fires its accepted name has gradually changed.
It’s said that the Wisht Hounds can be seen racing overhead here (no doubt on dark, stormy nights) in their pursuit of damned souls.
(J+C Bord, ‘Atlas of Magical Britain’)
A reasonable aerial view of the enclosure, and better than anything you are likely to get on the ground frankly.
Aerial photo and some archaeological details.
