Ditchling Common is a fabulous spot for a walk. It has views of the South Downs in the distance and lots of wildlife to enjoy.
Practical information
Ditchling Common Country Park covers 76 hectares (188 acres). It’s just east of Burgess Hill, and just north of Ditchling. Dogs are welcome but they must be kept under control. It’s a Site of Special Scientific Interest and there is a fishing permit system in place. Free parking is to the south off Folders Lane. It can get muddy in winter.
History of the common
There are two parts to Ditchling Common. The area north of Folders Lane which is now Ditchling Country Park and has been owned by East Sussex County Council since 1974. The area south of Folders Lane which is owned by Commoner’s Association. From the Medieval period to 1950 the common was owned by the manor of Ditchling and used for grazing.
Walking on Ditchling Common
You don’t really need a map because the common is a reasonably small space and there are lots of paths. However, there is a designated Nature Trail that is waymarked with a dragonfly symbol (Dizzy the Ditchling Dragonfly). The trail was designed to take in as many habitats as possible. It’s about 1.6 km so perfect for those multi generational walks where you just want a pleasant amble. Recommended times to walk it are March to September.
The walk takes you from the car park north west past the ponds, up to the north of the common and back round. Highlights include bluebells in spring and the gorse. If you want to extend your walk, you can carry on north to Jacob’s Post.
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