Sussex has a number of follies, buildings which are often designed to look like something far more important than they actually are. Some of the follies in Sussex can be visited and others on private land but all are fascinating.
One of them is featured in my series of West Sussex walks: Swanbourne Lake – Hiorne Tower (featured in Doctor Who) – Historic Arundel
13. The Sugar Loaf
This 35ft-high folly was built by Mad Jack Fuller in the early 19th century. It is in a field just off the B2096, east from Heathfield and west from Battle or Rye. It is said Mad Jack made a bet that he could see the spire of St Giles Church in Dallington from his estate in Brightling. This was not true, so he had The Sugar Loaf built to resemble the church spire. Photo: Google
14. Vandalian Tower
Sited just off the South Downs Way near South Harting but on private land is Vandalian Tower, designed by Henry Keene for Sir Matthew Fetherstonhaugh and built in 1774. Now a ruin, it was once ornate and had a kitchen and a guest room. Photo: Uppark Estate