Ditchling Beacon 28 August 2017

With spectacular views over the Weald, Ditchling Beacon is the second highest point on the South Downs.  It was, back in the day, one of the chain of fires lit to warn of impending invasions. Who invaded Sussex you ask - well, Julius Caeser in 55BC, Saxons after him, then the Normans - so a long history of invasion. They really needed the beacons.

Today though, I decided to walk on the other side of the road.  It's not as busy as the car park side and, I think, really lovely.

Being so high up, the sky is big, you can see for miles and miles. On a clear day you can see Brighton. It's easy, stride out walking. Just what you need to clear your head after days in the office.

It can get windy and cold on this part of the South Downs Way, even on a sunny day, so make sure you bring warm gear.

Cows, unperturbed by people, but unhappy with dogs, so they are best kept on a lead, particularly when there are calves.

I find them so photogenic ...

A good spot to lean on the gate, contemplate the view, decide on a route, or whether it's time to turn around. Not yet today.

Late summer flowers bring a bright flash of colour.

Down in the valley, I think this is the agricultural college in Plumpton.

And Plumpton Place - Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin fame was a former owner. Imagine the parties this place has seen!

Then it really was time to turn around ...