Located on Englands south coast, The Seven sisters cliffs is an iconic gateway into England. The breathtaking chalk cliffs contrasted against the bright blue sea make for the perfect place to enjoy a day hike.
Want to explore more of the UK? Read our guide to the Best Day Trips from London By Train
Contents:
Why is it called The Seven Sisters?
The cliffs are known as the “seven sisters” due to the natural wonder having seven distinct hill tops. This iconic coastal formation is made up of an abundance of chalk that makes up the bright white cliff face. When walking over The Seven Sister they are called, from east to west:
- Haven Brow
- Short Brow
- Rough Brow
- Brass Point
- Flagstaff Point
- Bailey’s Hill
- Went Hill Brow
Seven Sisters Hiking Routes
As The Seven Sister area is an iconic area to walk there are several different options when it comes to walking routes. Some routes allow you to enjoy the undulating countryside however others allow you to enjoy the main sites along the route.
Seaford to Eastbourne: Hard
21.7 km / 13.4 miles
This was the route that we decided to take on our journey to The Seven Sisters cliffs. After completing the walk we are glad that we walked the full route to enjoy all the cliffs have to offer.
We found it best to walk the route from Seaford to Eastbourne as you are looking into the best views and not having to look back on yourself all the time. The suggested walk time is 4 to 6 hours. On this particular day it took us around 5 hours with lots of time for stops to eat, take photos, refill up water and toilet breaks.
For all the directions, maps, plus others experiences of the walk itself can be found on Alltrails: Seaford to Eastbourne
Birling Gap to Beachy Head: Moderate
4.4km / 2.7 miles or 12.7km / 7.9 miles
This is the most iconic part of The Seven Sisters Cliff walk. If you are rushed for time or don’t think that you can make the whole length of the walk from Seaford to Eastbourne this is the next best walk to do.
There are two options for this part of the walk. The first option is to go on a larger circular route stating and finishing in Eastbourne which is 12.7 kms , this route can be found on Alltrails: Beachy Head to Birling Gap.
Alternative take the 13X bus from Eastbourne to Birling Gap from here you can walk towards Eastbourne until you reach Beachy Head which is around 4.4kms. From Beachy Head you can then get the bus back to Eastbourne.
How to get to The Seven sisters Cliffs from London
Depending which way you’re exploring The Seven Sisters Cliffs will alter on the best way for you to arrive at the coast.
If you are hiking the whole way from Seaford to Eastbourne then from London you can get the trains to Seaford. Trains run from London Victoria to Lewes or alternatively Brighton where you then change for your journey to Seaford. This just over 2 hours to go from London to Seaford.
To return on the train from Eastbourne to London you will need to get a Great Northern service which is direct from Eastbourne to London Victoria. This service takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. All your train journeys can be booked through Trainline.
Alternatively if you are planning on heading down to the cliffs and not doing the whole length of the walk you can then get the train to either Seaford or Eastbourne and then from there get the 13X bus along the coast to Birling Gap or Beachy Head to start your walk.
Can you get to the Seven Sisters without walking?
If you prefer to take an organised day trip then you can reserve the Seven Sisters and South Downs Full-Day Tour departing London. This tour takes you to Devils Dyke, Beachy Head and The Seven Sisters Cliffsonboard a small mini van.
Another enticing tour choice is the Sussex Villages and White Cliffs Guided Tour from London. This tour takes you to little villages in the area including Rottingdean, Alfiston and Litlington as well as the spectacular views of the cliffs.
Additionally, if you happen to be in Brighton you can explore the cliffs on the Seven Sisters Boat Tour.
What to take on your hike
As there are little facilities on your walk make sure to take with you the essentials that you may need on your walk. This should include water sun protection and food for the duration of your walk plus any emergency supplies.
Things to see on the Seven Sisters Walk
Birling Gap
Birling Gap is a popular spot for visitors when coming to The Seven Sisters. This is a great meeting place at the cliffs as you have a cafe, shop and toilets all on site.At Birling Gap there are also stairs for you to be able to enjoy the beach below. If you are driving to The Seven Sisters there are parking facilities here serviced by National Trust.
Belle Tout Lighthouse
Located on the cliffs this lighthouse was once used as a beacon along the English Channel. It has since been decommissioned and has been turned into a the Belle Tout Lighthouse Bnb.
Beachy Head Lighthouse
The Beachy Head Lighthouse is a distinctive red and white striped lighthouse which against the white of the cliffs is very picturesque. After becoming operational in 1902 this Grade II listed building is one of the last traditional offshore lighthouses.
Looking for nearby day trips? Check out our 1 Day Guide for Things to do in Brighton & Hove
5 things to know before the Seven Sisters hike:
1. The walk is best done from Seaford to Eastbourne as you’re looking at the amazing views the whole way.
2. There is 3 stops for food on the route the The Cuckmere Inn (which depending your route you may not pass), the National Trust Cafe at Birling Gap and The Beachy Head
3. Come prepared with water! If you aren’t stopping for food Biring Gap is the only place to refill your water.
4. The whole walk is directly in the sunshine. If you’re doing the whole 22kms we recommend doing it on a day under 20 degrees as there is no shade.
5. Some parts of the walk are steep! Make sure to be wearing appropriate foot wear.
Looking for a weekend away? Check out Our Best Romantic Weekend Breaks from London
Where to stay?
The View Hotel: Eastbourne
The Grand: Brighton
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