From the Devil’s Humps above Staughton

Another fine walk in the South Downs National Park. A round trip from Stoughton taking in the Bronze Age Devil’s Tumps in the Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve.

It is believed that the Tumps are burial sites, ritual locations for pre-historic cultures. I have another theory in that they were a source of recreation and playing as people and animals run up and down the banks having fun. I don’t think my theory will catch on.

Kingley Vale is also famous for its collection of ancient yews, some of which we saw on the trail interspersed in the colourful beech woodlands.

Running through the area is the Monarch’s Way, a 625 mile long distance path meandering its way from Worcester to Shoreham following the approximate route taken by King Charles II after his defeat in the Battle of Worcester in 1651.

Once again, the weather remained dull. It was warmer today but the colours muted. You have to imagine how stunning the landscape would look bathed in sunshine and backed with blue skies.