The Seven Sisters cliffs are a breath-taking natural attraction on England’s southern coast and one of the rare tourist spots in the UK that won’t disappoint seasoned travellers. The cliffs epitomise the rugged beauty of Sussex, with the sheer chalk cliffs offering stunning panoramic views, serene walks, and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life you’ll find in London.
If you’ve been convinced to take a long staycation to the British coast this summer, the following guide will lead you through the essentials of planning your visit, from reaching the scenic locale itself to enjoying the local cuisine.
How to Get There?
Accessing the Seven Sisters is pretty straightforward, especially from London as you can take a train to the vibrant coastal city of Brighton before taking a short bus ride to the cliffs (heading towards Eastbourne). This route not only offers ease of travel but also allows you to soak in the picturesque English countryside along the way from the comfort of the top deck of a double decker bus.
Of course, you can also circumvent London entirely by car but the motorway surrounding the capital, the M25, is a notoriously busy and unpleasant place to spend an afternoon.
If you go by bus, you want to get off at Cuckmere Haven, and the best views are actually from the other side of the River and looking back. The Seven Sisters themselves is the cliffs from Cuckmere Haven to Birling gap.
Seaford Head has the best views of the Seven Sisters
Walks
The Seven Sisters offer various walking trails, each promising a unique experience and spectacular views and this is arguably the best way to see them if you have a fear of heights. If however, you’re feeling a little more adventurous, hiking along the cliff edge provides an exhilarating experience, and you can easily walk to Beachy Head.
Feel the sea breeze and witness the majestic cliffs towering over the shimmering English Channel on a crisp Spring afternoon and it’s not an experience you’ll soon forget.
The classic trail leads to the most commonly photographed spots, offering the quintessential Seven Sisters vista. Perfect for those seeking the classic cliff view for their memories or social media. If you prefer the sound of waves and the feeling of sand beneath your feet, however, the beach walk is ideal.
It’s a tranquil route that lets you appreciate the cliffs from a sea-level perspective but we wouldn’t necessarily recommend it during the winter months as it can get incredibly nippy.
Despite their name, there are actually eight Sisters: Haven Brow, Short Brow, Rough Brow, Brass Point, Flagstaff Point, Flat Hill, Baily’s Hill, Went Hill Brow
Accommodation and Eating Out
Given its proximity to Brighton, you’ll be spoilt for choice as far as accommodation is concerned. If you want to stay as close as possible to the cliffs, meanwhile, near the Seven Sisters Visitor Centre you’ll find a range of accommodations. From the historic charm of the sixteenth-century Saltmarsh farmhouse hotel to dozens of classic cosy B&Bs, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.
Visitors to Seven Sisters are also in for a surprising culinary treat. The area boasts numerous restaurants that pride themselves on using high-quality, locally sourced produce. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or traditional English fare, you’re sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your palate and leaves you full and ready to tackle to cliffs with renewed vigour.