Long Burgh Barrow, Alfriston

Long Burgh Barrow

Long Burgh Barrow is a Neolithic long barrow on the hill overlooking the historic East Sussex village of Alfriston. The barrow was erected sometime between 2400 and 3400 BCE. It is a familiar sight for walkers on the South Downs Way National Trail as it lies directly beside the long-distance footpath, a short distance west of the village.

The barrow stands at the junction of the South Downs Way and several smaller footpaths. These trails probably evolved from prehistoric droveways, meaning that the barrow was sited in a prominent place, where it would be seen by large numbers of inhabitants.

Looking along the barrow

Long Burgh is one of the largest barrows in Sussex, measuring 56m long (roughly 180 feet), 28m wide, and rising to a maximum height of 1.8m.

The mound is shaped like a wedge and is aligned on a north-south axis, with its wider end to the north.

Archaeologists suggest that the main chamber was at the northern end of the barrow. This chamber has been badly damaged, possibly by treasure hunters. The mound was investigated by a local landowner in 1767 and a skeleton and pottery urn were found. These have since been lost.

The barrow's information panel

Archaeologists speculate that the burial remains were a later insertion, perhaps dating to the Bronze Age or Saxon period, when the barrow was reused.

The barrow mound is surrounded by two flanking ditches, of which only traces remain. The ditches were formed when chalk to create the mound was dug out of the earth.

The barrow can be overgrown with grass in the summer months, making it difficult to take in the entire structure.

Getting There

Long Burgh Barrow is extremely easy to reach on foot from Alfriston. Simply follow the South Downs Way signs from the High Street. The trail goes up Star Lane and King's Ride, then rises steeply to the summit of the down. It is no more than half a mile (1km) from the village. There is an illustrated information panel in front of the barrow.