TQ3313 : Old Boundary Marker on Ditchling Beacon

Ditchling Beacon

248m Elevation
213m Prominence
England Country
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TQ3313 : Old Boundary Marker on Ditchling Beacon

J Blemings Photo source

Explore routes near Ditchling Beacon

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Devil's Dyke, Newtimber Hill and Fulking Hill walk

11.4 km ~4h Moderate

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Seven Sisters Birling Gap and Friston Forest Circular

12.7 km ~3h 40m Moderate

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Box Hill - Stepping Stones Circuit

3.2 km ~2h Moderate

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Richmond Park - The Tasmin Trail

11.9 km ~3h Easy

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Ditchling Beacon Circular Walk via South Downs Way

This is a popular circular route starting and ending at Ditchling Beacon car park. Follow the South Downs Way eastward along the chalk ridge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Turn south at the junction with Plumpton Plain and descend into the valley, looping back westward through farmland and returning to the starting point.

8 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Ditchling Beacon to Devil's Dyke Linear Walk

This linear route begins at Ditchling Beacon and follows the South Downs Way westward towards Devil's Dyke. The path undulates along the ridge, passing through scenic chalk grassland and offering expansive views of both the Weald and the Sussex coastline. Arrange transport at Devil's Dyke for the return journey.

12 km ~4 hours Moderate

Ditchling Beacon to Jack and Jill Windmills

From Ditchling Beacon, head west along the South Downs Way towards the iconic Jack and Jill windmills. This out-and-back route allows walkers to enjoy the ridge's beautiful scenery, with opportunities to explore the windmills before returning to the starting point.

6 km ~2 hours Easy

Ditchling Beacon and Stanmer Park Circular

This longer circular route combines the South Downs Way with a detour through Stanmer Park. Starting at Ditchling Beacon, follow the Downs Way westward before descending into the park, where you'll meander through woodlands and open spaces. Return via a gentle climb back up to the ridge.

10 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Ditchling Beacon to Lewes Linear Walk

A scenic linear route that begins at Ditchling Beacon and follows the South Downs Way eastward towards the historic town of Lewes. Highlights include expansive views of the Ouse Valley and the chance to explore Lewes' charming streets, castle, and shops at the end. Arrange transport from Lewes for the return.

10.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn 200-299m hill Administrative County Top (1889 to 1996) Current County/UA Top

Elevation

248m

814 ft

Prominence

213m

Coordinates

50.9017, -0.1077

TQ331130

OS Map

198

Explorer: OL11 122

At the Summit

The summit boasts a prominent trig point, perfect for an Instagram snap, along with panoramic views stretching across the Sussex countryside.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy and chalky slopes with well-defined paths.

Ditchling Beacon is primarily composed of chalk, typical of the South Downs, resulting in steep, exposed cliff faces and a flat summit. The chalk is layered with flint, which can be seen scattered across the landscape.

Views & Scenery

Sweep across the rolling South Downs, with Brighton and the English Channel visible on a clear day. Keep an eye out for the iconic Seven Sisters cliffs in the distance!

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Ditchling' is thought to derive from the Old English 'dic,' meaning 'ditch' or 'dyke,' indicating its historical use as a defensive structure.

Historical Significance

The site has been a strategic point since ancient times, offering a lookout for the surrounding area. Ditchling Beacon also played a role during the Second World War as a communications station.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Ditchling Village car park, which is located at TQ330133. It's a decent-sized spot, but can fill up quickly on sunny weekends.

Public Transport

Frequent bus services from Brighton (Bus 48) to Ditchling Village. It’s just a hop, skip and a jump from there!

Nearby Facilities

There are several lovely cafes in Ditchling offering refreshments and loos, and you can grab a delightful cream tea to fuel your hike!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Steep drops on certain paths, particularly on the chalky ridges. Keep your wits about you, especially on windy days!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Ditchling Beacon?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Ditchling Beacon through the maps

Are there other walkers around Ditchling Beacon?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Ditchling Beacon search or of course create your own walk for Ditchling Beacon

Can I organise a walk to Ditchling Beacon?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Ditchling Beacon.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Ditchling Beacon?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Ditchling Beacon here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: TQ331130

View on OpenStreetMap

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