The Two Rings

This delightful circular South Downs walk is a route through history and takes in two of the most iconic landmarks on the South Downs. While offering you an insight into the fascinating history of the region along with 360 degree views. As you explore this section of the South Downs you will witness how the landscape has evolved and changed from the Neolithic Times to modern day.

The walk starts at the foot of Cissbury Ring, the second largest hill fort in England and largest in Sussex. From here your circular route touches on various periods throughout history – from neolithic times to Bronze-age and Iron-age sites, the Saxons, Romans and Normans, through to the Second World War and beyond.

Your walk will cross the South Downs Way National Trail and the Monarchs Way where you you will walk a section of the route along where Charles II fled.

Eventually the route meanders its way up to another hill fort, Chanctonbury Ring famous for its ring of beech trees planted in the 1700’s. Many of the ancient trees were sadly flattened in the Great Storm of 1987 but have since been replanted and are almost back to their former glory. There is much history and folklore associated with this fascinating site as well as some stunning 360 degree views of the surrounding countryside and down to the coast, so this is the perfect spot for lunch.

Throughout your South Downs walk you will have glorious views across patchwork fields and vineyards and discover numerous historical sites. It is a walk to be savoured and not to be hurried as there is so much to discover and explore. It is a great adventure through time and wonderful landscapes, that have changed by human use through history for habitation, work, worship and survival.