Seven Sisters and South Downs Day Trip
4 to 10 miles depending on route · Rolling clifftop ascents and descents along the chalk headlands elevation
About
The Seven Sisters are the famous chalk cliffs east of Brighton, rolling white headlands that photograph better than almost anything else in Sussex, and a day trip out here is the single best thing to do outside the city if the weather is good. You can drive or bus to Seaford or Birling Gap and walk sections of the cliff path yourself, or take a guided small-group tour that includes transport and commentary, which removes the hassle of bus timetables. Full clifftop walks are exposed and can be a proper few hours of effort, so guided tours usually build in stops rather than the whole path. It pairs naturally with Cuckmere Haven and the South Downs, and clear days give views back along the coast toward Brighton itself.
Photos
Highlights
- ✓The iconic Seven Sisters chalk-cliff views
- ✓Cuckmere Haven and its meandering river valley
- ✓Birling Gap beach access
- ✓South Downs National Park scenery
Tips
- →Stay well back from the cliff edges, they erode and collapse without warning
- →A guided tour is worth it if you do not want to manage bus connections yourself
- →Bring proper walking shoes, the chalk paths get slick when wet
Best Season
More Outdoors Activities
Devil's Dyke
England's deepest dry chalk valley on the South Downs, with sweeping views and walking routes a short bus ride from Brighton.
Stanmer Park
A large parkland and woodland estate on Brighton's edge, with a walled garden, Georgian house, and easy family walks.