Seven Sisters

Seven Sisters is a stretch of chalk sea cliffs on the East Sussex coast in southern England, in the Wealden district and inside the South Downs National Park. Between Seaford Head and Birling Gap the coastline rises and dips in seven rounded summits, forming a regular wave when seen from a distance. Many visitors begin their walk at Cuckmere Haven, where the River Cuckmere meets the sea inside Seven Sisters Country Park.

What will you see at the Seven Sisters?

White cliffs drop straight into the English Channel, with the grassy slopes of the South Downs behind them. The beach at Cuckmere Haven, reached by a path along the river, gives the best view of the whole row. Birling Gap, the lowest point on this stretch, has a National Trust site with an information point, public toilets and a cafe. A little further on, Belle Tout lighthouse stands on higher ground.

How do you get to Seven Sisters Country Park?

The park lies on the road between Seaford and Eastbourne. There are two pay and display car parks. At weekends, bank holidays and in peak season they fill fast, and nearby alternatives are very limited. On those days a 3 m height barrier operates, and coaches cannot park at weekends, on bank holidays or in July and August. Buses 12, 12A and 12X link Brighton, Seaford and Eastbourne and stop at the visitor centre, so you can connect with trains at Seaford, Brighton or Eastbourne. From April to October a seasonal service, the 47, runs at weekends and bank holidays to Berwick station, Alfriston and Seaford.

Which walk should you pick?

• Short stroll: about 2 miles (an hour) from the Exceat bus stop.
• Birling Gap loop: about 3.7 miles, 2.5 hours, moderate.
• Country Park circuit: around 12 km, 3 to 4 hours.
• Seaford to Eastbourne: about 21 km one way, with roughly 500 m of total climbing.

From the visitor centre to Birling Gap takes around two hours on foot.

When should you go, and what should you bring?

The cliffs are exposed to wind off the sea, and paths turn slippery and muddy after rain, so wear sturdy shoes and carry a warm layer. The route runs along high drops, so stay on the marked paths and keep back from the edge. Weekends and summer bring crowds, and car parks can be full before midday. The visitor centre normally opens daily from 10am to 5pm (4pm from November to April), except 25 December, but check the park's website for the current status before you set out.

Frequently asked questions

How long do you need at the Seven Sisters? A short stroll takes an hour, the Birling Gap loop about 2.5 hours, and the full Seaford to Eastbourne route is a day's walk.

Where is the best place to start? Seven Sisters Country Park at Exceat, or Birling Gap, where you will find toilets and a cafe.

Can you get there without a car? Yes. Buses 12, 12A and 12X stop at the visitor centre and connect with trains at Seaford, Brighton and Eastbourne.

Is the walk hard? The shorter routes are moderate but hilly. The full Seaford to Eastbourne crossing demands the most effort.