Miller’s Tomb

John Oliver built his tomb, known as the ‘Miller’s Tomb’, at Highdown Hill while he was still alive. It is said that he wanted to be buried in it upside down so as to be the right way up when the world ends. If you run around the tomb seven times, his ghost will jump out and chase you. [Worthing Herald dated 27th October 2016]

John Oliver (or Olliver) was a miller in Worthing born around 1709 who is thought to have had dealings with or led a band of local smugglers, often using the sails of his windmill as a signalling device to them. He reputedly built his tomb nearly 30 years before he died and it is suggested that it was used as drop point for contraband from his smuggling activities.