PLACES OF INTEREST IN PORTSLADE

Foredown Tower

Built as a water tower for Foredown Hospital in 1909, Foredown Tower was left standing when the hospital was demolished in the 1980s. A fascinating example of Edwardian architecture in its own right, the tower is particularly well-known for being one of two working camera obscuras in the south of England. As well as the camera obscura, visitors can enjoy spectacular 360° views over the surrounding landscape, from the Isle of Wight to the South Downs. A science and engineering museum until 2008, Foredown Tower is now operated by Portslade Adult Learning, serving as the venue for an array of adult learning classes.

St Nicolas’ Church, Portslade

St Nicolas’ Church is an Anglican church located in the ancient heart of Portslade, which was once the most important and populated part of what is now the city of Brighton and Hove. The original church included the chancel, nave and part of the tower, with the bell tower and battlements being added later in the fourteenth century. Portslade’s steady population meant that, unlike many other early Medieval buildings in the area, St Nicolas’ Church was well-maintained over the centuries. In the late nineteenth century previously hidden wall paintings dating from the Middle Ages were discovered on the walls of the church, but unfortunately these were painted over and lost.

Devil’s Dyke

John Constable called Devil’s Dyke “the grandest view in the world” and any visitors to the area can quickly see that the dyke lives up to this honour. One of the most stunning views in all of Sussex, if not the entire south of England, Devil’s Dyke provides breathtaking panoramic views of the steep valley and the surrounding countryside. The dyke itself is almost a mile long, making it the longest, deepest and widest dry dyke in Britain. According to ancient lore the dyke was scratched out of the earth by the devil, who wanted to drown the devout parishioners of Weald. Geologically-speaking, the dyke was formed during the last ice age only 10,000 years ago. Visitors to Devil’s Dyke can enjoy long walks and stunning views, and can explore the ruins of an ancient Iron Age fort.

Mile Oak Farm

Located just north of Portslade, Mile Oak Farm offer a fun day out for the entire family. Children can meet the resident farm animals, from horses, donkeys and goats to geese, ducks and chickens. Make a day of it with a picnic lunch and soak up the sunshine as the children feed the farm animals or enjoy a donkey ride! At the farm shop visitors can purchase locally-grown produce as well as tea, coffee and Sussex ice cream. Entry is free.