Best canyons around Streat are characterized by the unique geological formations of the South Downs. This region features chalkland dry valleys and glacial coombes, offering distinct natural landscapes. These areas provide opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems, including wildflowers and various butterfly species. The terrain is shaped by ancient geological processes, creating a series of valleys and bottoms that are ideal for walking and experiencing the local natural beauty.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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Caburn Bottom is nestled below Mount Caburn and offers a picturesque walking landscape featuring chalk grassland, diverse wildlife and breathtaking views
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This is a beautiful spot, there is a trig point that is placed on one of the ramparts of the actual Iron Age hillfort here. It is very popular with walkers, and families. The valley bowl is also particularly beautiful.
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Good place to start a hike (if in a car) - parking fees going towards upkeep of the area.
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Devil's Dyke is a v-shaped chalkland dry valley that’s home to wildflowers and many species of butterflies. Unique and picturesque, it's a popular destination for hiking or relaxing in nature. The name comes from a legend: the devil, furious for the conversion of the Kingdom of Sussex to Christianity, dug a dyke through the South Downs to allow the water from the sea to flow through and drown the villages of the Sussex Weald. The site was a hillfort in the Iron Age. You can still see some earthworks and burrows in the surrounding area. Apparently it was a very popular destination in Victorian times, with a funfair and even a railway line from Brighton! It gets busy on the weekend but it's a paradise if you manage to hike here on a weekday.
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Lovely v iews, but (unlike me) choose a clear day!
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Around Streat, you'll find unique geological formations often referred to as 'bottoms' or dry valleys, which are a type of gorge. These include Devil's Dyke, a V-shaped chalkland dry valley, and Standean Bottom and Caburn Bottom, which are beautifully sculpted glacial coombes. These areas are known for their natural beauty, views, and unique ecosystems.
Yes, Devil's Dyke is a family-friendly destination, offering easy access to its V-shaped chalkland dry valley. It's a popular spot for relaxing in nature and enjoying the views. The area also has several easy dog-friendly hiking routes, which can be suitable for families. You can find more details on these routes in the dog-friendly hikes guide.
The gorges around Streat, such as Devil's Dyke, Standean Bottom, and Caburn Bottom, are characterized by chalk grassland, unique geological formations like sculpted 'bottoms' (glacial coombes), and breathtaking viewpoints. You can also find wildflowers and various species of butterflies, especially at Devil's Dyke.
The gorges around Streat are beautiful year-round. However, for enjoying wildflowers and butterflies, spring and summer are ideal. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, especially at popular spots like Devil's Dyke, offering a more tranquil experience.
Yes, Devil's Dyke is not only a natural monument but also a historical site. It was once an Iron Age hillfort, and you can still observe some earthworks and burrows in the surrounding area. It was also a very popular destination during Victorian times.
Beyond exploring the gorges themselves, the area around Streat offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including dog-friendly routes. There are also various running trails ranging from moderate to difficult, and challenging mountain biking trails.
Yes, the gorges are integrated into the local trail network. For instance, Standean Bottom is just off the South Downs Way, with footpaths leading into its unique hollows. You can explore various hiking options, including easy loops like the 'Ditchling Village – Streat Church loop' or 'Streat Church – Wooden Bridge Near Cottage loop' found in the dog-friendly hikes guide.
Visitors frequently highlight the lovely views and the unique natural landscapes. The 'v-shaped chalkland dry valley' of Devil's Dyke, the 'beautifully sculpted ‘bottoms’' of Standean Bottom, and the 'breathtaking views' from Caburn Bottom are often praised. The opportunity for peaceful walks and enjoying nature is a major draw.
Absolutely. All three featured gorges – Devil's Dyke, Standean Bottom, and Caburn Bottom – are noted for their excellent views. Standean Bottom, in particular, can be combined with incredible views from the Kingston Ridge.
The chalk grassland environments of these gorges support diverse wildlife. At Devil's Dyke, you can often see many species of butterflies. Caburn Bottom is also known for its diverse wildlife, thriving within its picturesque walking landscape.
Yes, for those seeking more challenging experiences, there are several running and mountain biking trails in the vicinity. The running trails guide includes difficult routes like the 'Sussex Downs Trail Run'. For mountain biking, the MTB trails guide features difficult options such as the 'Blackcap Summit and Trig Point – Firle Beacon summit loop'.


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