Mystical and Mythical Places in West Sussex: Discover the Secrets of the County

Mystical and Mythical Places in West Sussex: Discover the Secrets of the County

April 11, 2025

West Sussex is not only picturesque landscapes and charming towns. It is also a land full of mysteries, legends and mystical places that have fired the imagination of locals and visitors for centuries. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the most interesting corners of this fascinating county, where history is intertwined with legend and reality mixes with magic. We will discover ancient fortifications, haunted castle ruins, mysterious abbeys and places where it is said that ghosts can still be found today. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will transport you through time and space, revealing the secrets of West Sussex.

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The ancient mysteries of Cissbury Ring

Our journey through the mystical places of West Sussex begins with a visit to the National Trust - Cissbury Ring. This is one of the county's most fascinating sites that holds secrets dating back to Neolithic times. Cissbury Ring is a huge prehistoric fortification built on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

The place has a unique atmosphere, which is perfectly captured in the words of one visitor: 'Such a cool place for a long walk. It was great to see the horses and the fantastic view of the countryside. I've lived in West Sussex for 10 years and only just discovered this place!' This proves how much mystery the region still holds.

Cissbury Ring is not just about scenic views. It's also a place where you can literally touch history. The ramparts, which have survived for thousands of years, hide traces of our ancestors. Walking around the fort grounds, you can imagine the life of the people who inhabited the area thousands of years ago. Interestingly, wild horses can be found on the grounds of Cissbury Ring, which adds an extra magical touch to the place.

It is worth remembering that although the site is accessible to everyone, it requires some physical exertion. As one visitor noted: 'If you have difficulty walking uphill, I wouldn't recommend it to you, because I'm young and healthy and I still had difficulty climbing the initial hill!' That's why it's a good idea to make sure you have proper footwear and fitness preparation before your visit.

Cissbury Ring is a place best visited on a clear day to fully appreciate the panoramic views. As one visitor noted: 'Fantastic site. The view is breathtaking at any time of the year. Walk along the earthen ramparts to step back in time. This is a perfect summary of what awaits visitors to this mystical site.

The practical aspects of the visit are also worth mentioning. The parking lot is located at the foot of the hill, which means that a short but steep walk awaits. As one visitor advises: 'Be prepared for a bit of climbing and wear proper shoes, but the road is worth it.' This is valuable advice for anyone planning to visit this place.

The ghosts and legends of Chichester

From the prehistoric hills, we move to the heart of West Sussex - the town of Chichester, where history and legend are intertwined in a fascinating tale of ghosts and mysteries. The Chichester Ghost Walk is an extraordinary experience that explores the dark side of this seemingly peaceful town.

The Chichester Ghost Walk is not only an opportunity to learn about the history of the city, but more importantly a chance to experience a real adventure. The route takes you through the city's most mysterious nooks and crannies, where, according to legends, the ghosts of past residents can still be found. The guides, dressed in period costumes, spin fascinating tales about the ghosts that are said to still haunt the streets of Chichester.

It is worth noting that The Chichester Ghost Walk is an attraction that combines educational elements with entertainment. It's a great opportunity to learn about the city's history in an unusual and exciting way. The walk takes place in the evening, which adds an extra element of mystery and horror to the whole experience.

In contrast, you should also visit Bramber Castle, which is located near Chichester. This place, while also shrouded in legends, offers a completely different experience. The castle ruins, perched on a hilltop, are a testament to the region's turbulent history. As one visitor noted: 'A beautiful place for a walk and picnic with fabulous views. Visit the church in the same place. This testifies to the fact that Bramber Castle is not only a historic ruin, but also a place where you can spend a pleasant time in nature.

Despite being a ruin, Bramber Castle still makes a great impression on visitors. One visitor described his impressions as follows: 'It's a ruin, but considering its history and age, it's a small miracle that parts of it still remain.' This is a testament to how important this place is for preserving the region's cultural heritage.

The practical aspects of visiting Bramber Castle are worth noting. As one visitor noted: 'Free parking right next to the chapel, which is also very beautiful, take the opportunity to visit it.' This is a valuable tip for those who plan to visit the place.

When comparing The Chichester Ghost Walk and Bramber Castle, one can see that the two places offer a completely different experience. The Ghost Walk is an intense evening experience, full of stories and legends. A visit to Bramber Castle, on the other hand, is a quieter experience, perfect for a day filled with history and beautiful views. What both places have in common, however, is that they allow you to feel the spirit of the history and legends of West Sussex.

Mysteries of ruins and abbeys

Our journey through the mystical places of West Sussex would not be complete without a visit to two remarkable locations: Cowdray Ruins and Boxgrove Priory. These sites, although different in character, have one thing in common - they bear witness to the region's rich and fascinating history.

Let's start with Cowdray Ruins, the impressive remains of a 16th-century castle that was once one of the grandest in England. Although significantly damaged by fire in the 18th century, these ruins continue to impress visitors. As one visitor noted: 'The Cowdray ruins provide a magnificent and memorable backdrop for polo tournaments. The historic ruins set amidst the picturesque Sussex countryside create a majestic and unique atmosphere.

Cowdray Ruins is not only a historical monument, but also a place where history is intertwined with the present. The polo tournaments held here are a perfect example of how ancient traditions can coexist with modern entertainment. This makes a visit to Cowdray Ruins a fascinating experience for both history buffs and those looking for unusual attractions.

It is worth remembering, however, that visiting the ruins requires some caution. As one visitor noted: 'Dangerous and all around, but still beautiful. It leaves a lot to the imagination. This is an important caution, especially for families with children.

Another fascinating site on our route is Boxgrove Priory. It's a medieval abbey that, despite the passage of centuries, still impresses with its architecture and atmosphere. As one visitor noted: 'There are still notable remains of a romantic abbey (priory) with a Gothic stone vault painted with flowers. Worth a detour.

Boxgrove Priory is a place where you can literally touch history. The preserved fragments of the building allow you to imagine what life was like for medieval monks. What's more, the abbey is still a place of worship, which adds to its special atmosphere. As one visitor noted: 'We felt welcome in this priory. A local gentleman told us the history of the church and the monastery.''

Comparing Cowdray Ruins and Boxgrove Priory, one can see that the two places offer a very different experience. Cowdray Ruins is an impressive testament to secular power and wealth, while Boxgrove Priory is an example of the region's spiritual heritage. Cowdray Ruins impresses with its scale and picturesque location, while Boxgrove Priory captivates with its architectural details and tranquil atmosphere.

The practical aspects of visiting both sites are worth noting. In the case of Cowdray Ruins, as one visitor advises: 'It would be good to include some drawings to show how it once looked with a bit of history.' This is a valuable tip for organizers that could greatly enhance the visitor experience. For Boxgrove Priory, on the other hand, it's a good idea to take advantage of the information leaflets available and, if possible, talk to locals who are eager to share their knowledge of the abbey's history.

In conclusion, both Cowdray Ruins and Boxgrove Priory are places that allow you to feel the spirit of West Sussex history. Each in its own way tells the fascinating history of the region, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of centuries past. They are perfect points on the map for anyone who wants to discover the mystical and mysterious face of West Sussex.

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