A small cache hidden near an interpretation board, looking south onto the Downs.
From Plumpton Racecourse, travel west along the bridleway towards Streat, until you come to a clearing in the hedge which looks south onto the scarp slope of the Downs. The cache is hidden nearby
LOCAL INFORMATION
Geological Processes and Their Consequences
The chalk slopes of the South Downs were formed between 75-90 million years ago, from marine deposits in the shallow, tropical sea that covered this area at that time. This chalk dome, which spread north through Surrey and North Kent, was then weathered and eroded during the last ice age, leaving behind the slopes that we see today. The nature of the erosion means that the north face of the South Downs, which you see before you is incredibly steep (known as the 'scarp slope'), whilst the southern face is far gentle and shallower (known as the 'dip slope'). As well as providing magnificent view over the landscape, throughout history people have found other uses for the steep scarp slope, with bright white chalk beneath...
Chalk Carvings and the Plumpton Cross
Throughout the South Downs there are several 'geoglyphs', or figures carved into the steep scarp slope. Whilst the origin and history of many of them are mysterious or unknown, it is obvious that the intention of them all was to be seen from far off. Such is certainly the case with the Plumpton Cross, which is visible from this point. The Cross (measuring almost 30 square metres) was dug by monks of St Pancras Abbey, Southover, in memory of those who fell during the Battle of Lewes in 1264. This was one of the two main battles fought in the Second Barons' War fought between King Henry III and the Barons, as a consequence of the King's autocracy.
Other famous geolyphs in the South Downs include the Long Man of Willmington, and the White Horse at Litlington.
TRAVELLING SUSTAINABLY
Plumpton station is the closest train station to explore this area.
You can cycle to this geocache, access to the area is via the bridleway from Streat or Green Cross, off Plumpton Lane.
Other information
Thank you to jerrycat for moving Streat cats G to make this cache possible.