Holt Bottom

Valley in Sussex Mid Sussex

England

Holt Bottom

Tapsel gate, Church of the Transfiguration, Pyecombe, West Sussex This photo shows the Tapsel gate at the Church of the Transfiguration in an open position. The gate in the photo is the latest in a succession of gates with this replacement only having been installed recently. The gate design contains an integrated Pyecombe hook as the shepherd’s crook was generally known in this area. Such hooks were originally made in the old forge on the opposite side of the road from the church. The Church of the Transfiguration has always been known locally as the &#039;Shepherds’ Church&#039; and Pyecombe, itself, stands on an ancient droveway. — Tapsel gate, Church of the Transfiguration, Pyecombe, West Sussex Credit: Andrew Diack

Holt Bottom is a picturesque valley located in Sussex, England. It is situated in the South Downs National Park, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The valley is nestled between rolling hills, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

The area is known for its rich agricultural heritage, with fertile soil and a mild climate that supports a variety of crops and farming activities. The valley is dotted with traditional farms and rural villages, adding to its idyllic charm.

Holt Bottom is home to a thriving ecosystem, with a diverse range of plant and animal species. The valley's lush meadows and woodlands provide habitats for numerous birds, mammals, and insects, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. Visitors can often spot deer, foxes, badgers, and a myriad of bird species while exploring the area.

The valley also boasts several walking trails and footpaths, allowing visitors to explore the stunning natural surroundings at their own pace. The South Downs Way, a long-distance footpath, passes through Holt Bottom, providing an opportunity for hikers to experience the beauty of the valley and its panoramic vistas.

In addition to its natural beauty, Holt Bottom offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The valley's serene atmosphere and unspoiled landscapes make it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Overall, Holt Bottom is a hidden gem in Sussex, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and experience the tranquility of rural life.

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Holt Bottom Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.889213/-0.14799882 or Grid Reference TQ3011. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Tapsel gate, Church of the Transfiguration, Pyecombe, West Sussex

This photo shows the Tapsel gate at the Church of the Transfiguration in an open position. The gate in the photo is the latest in a succession of gates with this replacement only having been installed recently. The gate design contains an integrated Pyecombe hook as the shepherd’s crook was generally known in this area. Such hooks were originally made in the old forge on the opposite side of the road from the church. The Church of the Transfiguration has always been known locally as the 'Shepherds’ Church' and Pyecombe, itself, stands on an ancient droveway.

Andrew Diack

Closed Tapsel gate at the Church of the Transfiguration, Pyecombe

The photo shows the Tapsel gate on the north side of the Church of the Transfiguration in Pyecombe in West Sussex which is locally known as the Shepherds’ Church. The Tapsel gate in the photo is a modern replacement for the original 18th century one. The church was Grade I listed on the 28th October 1957 and the local District Council designated the area around the church as a conservation zone in January 1989. Because of the restricted space in Church Hill (the lane beside the Tapsel gate), the photo was taken from further along the road.

Andrew Diack

Tapsel gate in a closed position at 'The Shepherds' Church, Pyecombe

This photo shows a northerly view of the Tapsel gate at 'The Shepherds' Church, Pyecombe, West Sussex. The gate opens directly on to Church Hill.

Andrew Diack

Tapsel gate at the 'Shepherds' Church' in an open position, Pyecombe

This photo shows the Tapsel gate at 'The Shepherd'Church in Pyecombe, West Sussex. In the photo, the gate is being viewed while looking north. The name Tapsel as in 'Tapsel gate' is probably derived from its inventor, John Tapsel who lived in Mountfield near Battle, East Sussex, during the early 18th century. The name has different variations including Topsayle, Tapsell, Topsil, Tapsayle, Topsaille, Topsil and Tapsel.

Andrew Diack

Church of the Transfiguration, Pyecombe, West Sussex

The church is a Grade I listed building which is described in the National Heritage List for England as an ‘Attractive small medieval building’. The chancel, chancel arch and nave date back to the 12th century with the Norman tower being a 13th century addition.

Andrew Diack

The tower of the Church of the Transfiguration, Pyecombe, West Sussex

The squat, tiled tower was added to The Church of the Transfiguration in the 13th century. The hipped, tower roof is a type known as a 'Sussex Cap' and this is uncommon in other counties. The tower is supported by buttresses one of which is shown in the photo.

Andrew Diack

Jill, up a hill

Two windmills known as Jack and Jill stand close to The South Downs Way a few miles north of Brighton; this is Jill.

Trevor Littlewood

Fields adjacent to South Downs Way

The South Downs Way here is heading eastwards with Ditchling Beacon on the skyline.

Trevor Littlewood

Jack and Jill windmills in 1967

Jack is on the right and Jill on the left - without her sails

John Baker

Signpost on Mill Lane by Clayton Windmills with view towards Pyecombe

The bridleway signposted here joins the South Downs Way National Trail. To the right of the sign Mill Lane is open to all traffic.

Shazz

Poorly Jill, up a hill

This is how she looks when well - Link.

Shazz

The top of Jack

This is Jack of the Jack and Jill Windmills at Clayton. Jack no longer is a working windmill but a private residence.

Shazz

Sign on South Downs Way National Trail near Clayton Windmills

Shazz

Bridleway crossing signpost near New Barn Farm

Shazz

Bridleway near New Barn Farm

Instead of using this bridleway the South Downs Way National Trail turns left here and then right to meet up with this bridleway in about three furlongs. I don't know why. A winter view of this scene is at Link.

Shazz