Seven Sisters Country Park
Discovering the Breathtaking Seaside Region of the South Downs
Walking, biking and exploring nature are among the many activities available in the East Sussex Country Park famous for its chalk white cliffs shimmering along the coast.
Located along the south east shore of England, the Seven Sisters Country Park is named after the famous Seven Sister chalk cliffs. It is part of the Sussex Heritage Coast that includes the more commonly recognised White Cliffs of Dover. The sisters are a series of peaks that were carved out by the meandering rivers that now decorate the valley. The park is protected as both an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” and a “Site of Special Scientific Interest”.
Walking
There are a number of trails that depart from the park entrance including two posted circular trails covering 3 and 10 miles. The varied territory accommodates all ages and fitness levels making it an ideal location for families and children. Maps are available at the visitor centre located in an 18th-century barn.
South Downs Way
If you’re looking for a bigger challenge, the South Downs Way National Trail passes through the park and over the cliffs. The 100-mile walk treks from Winchester to Eastbourne first touching the coast at the Seven Sisters making this a spectacular ending to a beautiful diverse journey. If you are looking for inspiration, join the 100 plus participants over nine days in June for the West Sussex Annual South Downs Way National Trail Walk.
Cycling & Mountain Biking
Behind the rolling green hills sits Friston Forest holding a mass of bike trails criss-crossing throughout the woods and up over the hills. Caution should be advised as many of these trails are difficult and require experience.
More relaxed cycling is allowed on the valley floor and the concrete paths throughout the park, and there is a paved direct route to the beach. Bikes can be rented at the Cuckmere Cycle shop near the visitor centre.
Nature, History & More
From bird watching to shipwrecks, the park offers it all. The chalk grassland exhibits a unique array of flora and insects, differing from the salt-tolerant vegetation that exists in the salt marsh that used to cover the whole of the valley. Along the seashore chunks of marcasite disappear into fool’s gold and the meandering Cuckmere River provides a channel for canoeing either solo or with a guided group.
Local Accommodation
Situated between Eastbourne and Seaford, there is sufficient public transportation to and from the park. But for a quintessential British experience, plan your accommodation in Alfriston. Only three miles from the shoreline, the village will take you back in time with original Tudor buildings. One mile outside the village is a YHA Hostel surrounded by plenty of foot and cycle paths connecting you to the park.
If you are backpacking or prefer to sleep under the stars, there are a number of camping facilities in the area:
- Foxhole Campsite and Camping Barn
- Ash Farm, Jevington
- Buckle Caravan Site, Seaford
- St Ives, Hartfield
For more information regarding the park and its surrounding region, visit the South Downs Website.
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