Devil's Chimney, Rock cleft in Ventnor, England
Devil's Chimney is a natural cleft in the chalk cliffs of Ventnor, formed as a vertical shaft cutting through the rock face. This narrow opening creates a passage between steep walls and rises from the base of the cliff, revealing different rock layers within.
The formation developed over many centuries through coastal erosion, with water and wind gradually carving away at the chalk. This natural process shaped the shaft into its current form as a direct result of ongoing weathering along the cliffs.
The name carries local stories connected to old seafaring traditions, and visitors can still see how this rocky formation served as a notable landmark in the coastal landscape. The narrow opening was a recognizable feature that guided people's movements along the cliffs for generations.
The route to this spot follows the coastal path V65A starting from local tearooms and running along the cliff edge. Check current conditions before visiting, as recent landslides may occasionally restrict safe access to the formation.
Inside the cleft, a natural staircase descends through the rock in a series of steps. This stepping formation offers a rare glimpse into how different chalk layers stack on top of each other.
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