Chalk Cliffs of East Sussex in England 2025

One of the best-known images of England's southern coast is the chalk cliffs along the English Channel, stretching from Seaford to Eastbourne. They form a part of the chalk South Downs, annually eroded by the sea waves. Aptly named, Seven Sisters, the cliffs consist of seven hills, peaking over the sea. Another landmark in the area, Beachy Head, sits east of Seven Sisters. Both scenic spots are located in Seven Sisters Country Park, a part of the South Downs National Park.

Best Time to Visit the Cliffs

The visitor center is open year-round, so if you would like to get a free guide to the park, tips on tides and walks, and buy some souvenirs or any other goods, you can do some anytime during the opening hours. The peak season is summer since, besides hiking, many choose to take a dip in the sea. To avoid the crowds and enjoy the views, consider visiting on clear days during spring or fall.

Spring might be a better option since the grass is vibrant green, making for colorful snapshots of the cliffs. You can certainly visit the cliffs any time of the year, but there is a higher chance of rain and grey clouds in late fall and winter, so consider checking weather forecast before going.

Seven Sisters (Seaford to Eastbourne) Walk

One of the most popular hiking routes is Seaford to Eastbourne. The walk is around 13 miles (21 km) and, according to some travelers, is more challenging than expected, as there are several steep climbs. The cliff range starts eastwards from Cuckmere Haven, where one of the most famous views opens right next to the coastguard cottages. It's also a place where the Cuckmere River meets the English Channel.

During the hike, you will walk up and down the seven hills of Seven Sisters with chalk sides facing the sea, followed by the Birling Gap. The route is relatively steep, with only a few flat sections, but the effort is well worth it. On a warm summer day when the tide is in, you can go for a swim at the Cuckmere Haven or Birling Gap, but beware of the underwater rocks. Moving eastwards, you will climb up the notorious Beachy Head, easily recognizable, thanks to the Belle Tout lighthouse. Finally, the route ends in Eastbourne, a gorgeous seafront town, where you can stop for dinner.

Other Hiking Options

If you'd like to witness the iconic cliffs, but either don't have enough time or not able to walk for that long, don't fret–the area offers numerous other options you can choose from. The shortest one lies along the coast between Seaford and Exceat, the village near the cliffs, and is approximately 4 miles (6.2 km) long. You can also just arrive at the park and experience the cliffs from there.

Park Opening Hours & Tickets

The South Downs National Park is open year-round, from dusk until dawn, and no ticket is required to enter the premises. However, some facilities in the park are open only during certain times. From November to March, the Grab and Go takeaways and beverage stations operate from 10 am until 3 pm on weekdays and until 4 pm on weekends. Visitor Centre is open from 10 am until 4 pm during the winter season and until 5 pm during summer. Car parks and toilets are open from 7 am until 6 pm during winter and until 9 pm during summer.

Transportation & Parking

The Seven Sisters Country Park can be easily accessed by bus from the nearby seaside cities, like Eastbourne, Seaford, and Brighton. If you're traveling from London, your best option is to travel by train to Brighton and to get to the park from there. The buses stop right at the park's entrance. There are two car parks, which close overnight, but cost £3.50 for two hours and £4.50 for regular cars. To get a better view of the Seven Sisters, park at South Hill Barn Car Park.

Seven Sisters

Seven Sisters is the iconic landmark of the South Downs National Park and, contrary to popular belief, actually consists of eight cliffs. Because of climate change and sea erosion, the landscape of this natural site can change every decade, which is why the eight cliff appeared. Each of the hills have their own name and characteristics. The hills are called Haven Brow, Short Brow, Rough Brow, Brass Point, Flagstaff Point, Flat Hill, Baily’s Hill, Went Hill Brow.

Beachy Head

Beachy Head is a chalk headland located just 3 miles (5 km) from Eastbourne. This gorgeous chalk cliff rises to 531 feet (162 meters) above sea level. One of its notable highlights is the white-striped lighthouse, which makes for wonderful snapshots.