Scheduled MonumentsEnglandDevil's Dyke hillfort

Devil's Dyke hillfort

England
List entry 1014953
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Historic England (NHLE)

Overview

History & significance

Devil's Dyke is a prehistoric hillfort located on the South Downs near Ditchling in West Sussex, England. The site comprises a substantial univallate earthwork consisting of a single defensive bank and ditch that cuts across the narrowest point of a pronounced ridge, enclosing an interior area of approximately six hectares. Archaeological and topographical evidence suggests the hillfort dates to the Iron Age, likely constructed during the Middle to Late Iron Age period. The monument represents a significant defensive settlement characteristic of the Iron Age fortification strategy in southern Britain, commanding views across the Weald and the coastal plain and serving as a stronghold for the local community during this period of increased settlement consolidation and territorial control.

Devil's Dyke hillfort is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1014953. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Devil's Dyke hillfort?

Devil's Dyke is a prehistoric hillfort located on the South Downs near Ditchling in West Sussex, England. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1014953.

Who is responsible for protecting Devil's Dyke hillfort?

Devil's Dyke hillfort is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic England (NHLE) — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in England. The official designation reference is 1014953.

What other scheduled monuments are near Devil's Dyke hillfort?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Section of Port's Road and barrow on Round Hill, Hangleton (2.9 km), Martin Down style enclosure, bowl barrow, Iron Age hillfort, Romano-British village and associated field system on Thundersbarrow Hill (4.1 km), Dovecote at Patcham Court Farm, 80m north west of All Saints Church (4.6 km).

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