Legendary Seven Sisters coastal hike, 22km

The iconic coastal cliff-top walk from Seaford to Eastbourne - one of the most spectacular and photographed natural landscapes in Britain!

The Seven Sisters are a series of chalk sea cliffs and part of South Downs National Park. They were created when ancient rivers cut valleys into the chalk, creating seven peaks. The cliffs have been sculpted by the erosive power of the sea and weather. On a good day, this sensational hike will dazzle you with its stunning views of the dramatic coastline and scintillating waters of the English Channel with its magnificent hues of blues and greens.

After leaving Seaford, we reach picturesque Cuckmere Haven, a beach at the mouth of the Cuckmere River. This is a popular film location. We will hike inland a bit to get to the other side of the river and then ascend the first of the Seven Sisters hills at the other end of the beach. We then continue our undulating journey to Birling Gap, at the end of Seven Sisters. At the cafe here we will take a break - admire the pebble beach below the backdrop of the breath-taking cliffs.

As we continue, the hike brings us to the decommissioned 19th century Belle Tout Lighthouse at the top edge of the ongoing cliffs - a unique place to stay. Finally we reach Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain at 162m from where we descend to the coast to reach the seafront at Eastbourne.

IMPORTANT RISK WARNING:
The hike takes place along the top of coastal cliffs which are in a state of constant erosion. There is no proper fencing in place. Please keep a very safe distance from the edge. It is extremely dangerous to venture too close to the crumbling cliff edges; there are sheer drops along the hike and any fall will almost certainly be fatal.

Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP

Start time: 10:15am

Start location: the meeting point and start of the hike is from Seaford’s Esplanade Car Park at the seafront (BN25 1JT). On exiting Seaford (Sussex) station, it's a 16min walk to the meeting point at the car park, next to the beach huts and coastal cliffs. My mobile: 07951673142

End location: Eastbourne seafront (the station is a 15-20 min walk away).

Length: 22km

Ascent: 550m

Time: approx 7-8 hrs. It’s not possible to specify what time we'll finish as it depends on the weather, pace of the group and our breaks along the way. Please be prepared to dedicate the entire day as the return time cannot be guaranteed. Enjoy this fantastic day-trip to the coast!

Pace/Difficulty: a reasonable, moderate pace; we will not zoom along in a mad rush. There will be breaks. The aim is to have a fun, friendly day. This is a hilly and challenging hike over a long distance so you need to be very fit.

Transport (train): The 8:24am train from London Victoria reaches Seaford (Sussex) station at 9:48am. Check trains before travel. You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket. As this is a linear hike, your return to London is from Eastbourne station.

Transport (car): There is free parking at Seaford’s Esplanade Car Park at the seafront (BN25 1JT) for 12 hours. Park as close to the cliffs as you can, near the beach huts. We'll leave at 10:15am from here. After the hike, you'll have to get a train, bus or cab back from Eastbourne.

What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over.