Devil's Dyke & Newtimber Hill

Sussex downs landscape and historic folklore valley

Route Overview

This stunning circular route takes you around the legendary Devil's Dyke valley, which folklore claims was dug by the devil to drown the churches of the Weald. Starting at the dramatic Dyke viewpoint, the trail descends down into the picturesque village of Poynings, then climbs up the chalk grasslands of Newtimber Hill, famous for its orchids and summer wildflowers. You then traverse around Fulking Hill with panoramic views of the Weald before returning to the Dyke.

Travel & Getting There from London Victoria

By Train: Take the fast Southern train from London Victoria to Brighton (55 mins), then catch the direct Breeze Bus 77 to the Devil's Dyke summit. (Station: Brighton Station (Southern / Thameslink), duration: 1h 10m (Train from London Victoria + Breeze Bus 77)).

By Bus: Take National Express coach from Victoria Coach Station to Brighton Coach Station, then take the scenic open-top Breeze Bus 77 straight to Devil's Dyke. (2h 15m - 2h 40m from London Victoria)

By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is National Trust Devil's Dyke Car Park (BN1 8YJ). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1h 25m - 1h 50m from London Victoria (54.2 miles via A23 & M23 South towards Brighton). From London Victoria, drive south on A23/M23 towards Brighton. Just before Brighton, exit onto the A281 towards Poynings, then follow Devil's Dyke Road to the top car park.

Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs

Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Devil's Dyke & Newtimber Hill trail:

• ☕ The Devil's Dyke Pub: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ The Royal Oak, Poynings: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel to Devil's Dyke & Newtimber Hill from London?

Take the fast Southern train from London Victoria to Brighton (55 mins), then catch the direct Breeze Bus 77 to the Devil's Dyke summit. (Station: Brighton Station (Southern / Thameslink), duration: 1h 10m (Train from London Victoria + Breeze Bus 77)).

Where is the closest car park for Devil's Dyke & Newtimber Hill?

Nearest car park is National Trust Devil's Dyke Car Park (BN1 8YJ). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1h 25m - 1h 50m from London Victoria (54.2 miles via A23 & M23 South towards Brighton). From London Victoria, drive south on A23/M23 towards Brighton. Just before Brighton, exit onto the A281 towards Poynings, then follow Devil's Dyke Road to the top car park.

How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?

Devil's Dyke & Newtimber Hill covers 14 km (8.7 miles) with an estimated duration of 3.5 - 4 hours, graded as Moderate. Starts at Devil's Dyke National Trust Car Park and finishes at Devil's Dyke National Trust Car Park.