Ditchling Beacon-National Trust
Ditchling Beacon
View on Google MapsPhoto: Paul Brook
About Ditchling Beacon-National Trust
Perched high in the South Downs National Park, this historic hilltop landmark rewards visitors with breathtaking views across Sussex countryside, though families should note the terrain is challenging for pushchairs.
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Paid car park
- ✓Free street
- ✓Paid street
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Facilities
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
Visited National Trust Ditchling Beacon and really enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views across the South Downs. It's one of the highest points in East Sussex, perfect for walking, cycling, or simply relaxing and taking in the scenery. The area was quiet and refreshing, with plenty of open space and fresh countryside air. A great spot.
· via Google
Came here to watch the Summer Solstice with a close friend of mine. The place is great for just sitting and chatting while listening to some chill tunes. Not too many people showed up for the solstice, but the ones who did were very respectful, we were all enjoying the vibes there. 100% would recommend going for a bit of meditation or just some time-off from the rest of the world.
· via Google
The highest point in East Sussex and a superb place for bracing country walks with sweeping views. There's history too, as the site contains traces of an Iron Age hillfort. The ground can be very muddy in winter so robust footwear is a must, but paths are generally well marked and the grass is kept low. Good place to see wildflowers in summer, and the dew ponds reflect the evening sun beautifully. Winter sunsets from the South Downs ridge can be truly stunning and worth staying late for. The well maintained hilltop parking area is free for National Trust members, otherwise charges apply. If you're driving here, be careful to set navigation to the parking area and not the beacon itself, or Maps will direct you past the entrance at which point you can't turn around until you've gone all the way down the hill.
· via Google
I've been going for walks from the Ditchling Beacon car park for years. Have seen many a wonderful, breathtaking sunset. Only a few hours ago I've returned from a walk that I will remember for the rest of my life. The photos speak for themselves. It's a great place with amazing views. There's a dog waste bin in the car park, which every dog walker will appreciate. There's sometimes a bit of a problem finding a parking space, but then there is another (although very dilapidated car park at the bottom of the beacon, only about 15 minutes strenuous walk uphill)
· via Google
Visitors say this tourist destination offers stunning views across the South Downs, extending to the North Downs and the sea, making it perfect for walking and cycling. They also highlight the peaceful atmosphere and refreshing countryside air, providing a quick getaway from city life. Guests mention that National Trust members can park for free.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Westmeston, Brighton, BN6 8XG Get directions
- Category
- Landmarks & Monuments
- Guest rating
- 4.7 / 5 (370 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Suggested visit
- 2-3 hours
- Setting
- Outdoor
- Dogs allowed
- Yes
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Ditchling