Changing landscapes, crisp weather and fire-lit pubs – Autumn truly is the best season to explore what the English countryside has to offer
Changing landscapes, crisp weather and fire-lit pubs – Autumn truly is the best season to explore what the English countryside has to offer. It’s also the perfect excuse to get out of London, with multiple stunning routes just one hour from the M25.
One such place is the legendary Devil’s Dyke, a South Downs beauty spot that’s as beautiful as it is historical. Located just five miles north of Brighton, the sweeping hills offer stunning panoramas, leading painter John Constable to declare it the ‘grandest view in the world’.
It’s easy to see why as even a quick stroll will lead walkers through patchwork fields, colourful grassland and abundant wildlife. Better yet, just five minutes from the car park you’ll find the deepest and widest dry valley in Britain; its perfect V-shape unfurling for just over half a mile.
Legend has it, the Devil dug the chasm to drown the parishioners of the Weald. Scientists believe it was formed naturally just over 10,000 years ago in the last ice age.
From there, you’ll encounter the remaining ramparts or walls of Iron Age forts and the site of Victorian funfairs surrounded by a carpet of flowers. Make sure to listen out for the chorus of skylarks singing – a rare sight elsewhere in the UK.
Devil’s Dyke is also one of Europe’s most popular sites for paragliding and hang-gliding, meaning its skies are often studded with colourful kites. There are multiple walking routes to choose from, ranging from the family-friendly to the 7-mile hike.
One of the more popular takes you past the working Saddlescombe Farm. This National Trust-run estate encompasses 450 acres and is home to cattle, sheep, and plenty of crops. Hidden within the old cattle yard, you’ll find The Wildflower Café, an al fresco spot serving up hot drinks, snacks and sweet treats. Alternatively, you can opt for the The Devil’s Dyke, a charming pub with huge Sunday roasts and seats overlooking the surrounding greenery.
How to get there
The easiest way to get to Devil’s Dyke is via car, with the beauty spot less than 45 minutes drive from South London. Take the M23 and A23 to Sayers Common, followed by the A281 to Saddlescombe.
There is pay & display parking at Devil’s Dyke (£1.65 for 1 hour; £3.30 for up to 2 hours; £8 all day), with free entry for National Trust members and Blue Badge holders. There are also a limited number of free car parking spaces at Summer Down Road.
Alternatively, you can hop on a 60-minute train to Brighton and take a 77 bus straight to the starting point. This would cost around £24pp, according to Trainline. However, a train ticket comes with a ‘2-for-1’ offer on adult single and return tickets, or a 1/3 discount on a full adult single fare, on the bus.
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