I’ve lived in the UK for years, and yet, I’ve only been to the Seven Sisters coastal walk 3 times. It’s one of those places you always mean to go back to, but don’t, partly because it’s a bit of a trek from London without a car. Public transport is… well, let’s just say not the most convenient. But if you do make the effort, especially starting from Seaford Head, you’re treated to some of the most breathtaking chalk cliff views in the country.
A few weeks ago, I went back. Yes, it’s a well known spot and often packed with tourists, but honestly, it’s popular for a reason. And I figured it was time to give the Seven Sisters a proper feature on my website because it’s definitely one of those places you shouldn’t miss if you’re visiting the UK.
There are 2 main ways to reach the Seven Sisters cliffs in Eastbourne: either through Birling Gap or from Seaford Head. Walking along the cliffs, you can’t really cross from one side to the other (unless you’re up for a long detour inland), so it’s worth picking your starting point wisely.
First tip: skip the most famous route to the Seven Sisters and try the other side instead, starting at Seaford Head. It’s just as beautiful and a lot quieter. This summer has been absolutely glorious, sunny skies, warm temperatures, and yes, the classic British grumbling about anything over 24 degrees. Talking about the weather is practically a national sport here, and if there’s a heatwave, you can bet it’s headline news.
The Beauty of the Walk: Chalk Cliffs and Coastal Magic
What I love most is how the landscape shifts as you walk. The cliffs become more dramatic with every step, and the views open up to rolling hills, white chalk cliffs, and the vast blue of the sea. It’s stunning.
There’s something special about the geology. The cliffs are made of chalk, yes, the same soft white stuff you used to scribble with at school. Over time, the sea erodes these cliffs, and the chalk particles mix with the water. That’s what gives the sea this milky-blue, sometimes turquoise hue that looks straight out of the Mediterranean on a sunny day. It’s one of those visual surprises that makes you pause mid-walk and just stare.
Starting the walk to the Seven Sisters cliffs from Seaford Head
One thing to note: there are no toilets. So plan accordingly, go before your train ride or before you start the walk. You might expect cafes and facilities along the way, but the Seven Sisters cliffs are part of a national park and Seaford Head has a great little parking area that works on donations, and there’s a cafe, in the South Hill Barn, at the trailhead for your pre-hike coffee fix.
At the top of the hill, you’ll spot the Coastguard Cottages, those charming little houses that pop up in so many photos of the Seven Sisters. They sit right on the edge of the cliffs and the view from up there is just incredible.
Once you reach the bottom of the cliff, you’ll come across a little stream. There’s no direct way to cross it, so if you want to get to the other side, you’ll need to head back up the hill and come down the other side.
Best time to visit the Seven Sisters
Honestly, any season works. I’ve been in spring and summer, and both have their charm. Just avoid days when it’s super windy, this is the coast, after all, and it’s pretty much always windy, but high winds can make the experience less pleasant (and a bit more dangerous). Even when the sun isn’t shining, the place feels atmospheric. I’d love to go back when the sea is rough and the sky is lit up by thunderstorms. So pack your walking shoes, check the weather, and bring your camera.
How to Get to the Seven Sisters Cliffs from London
Public transports to Seven Sisters
Getting to the Seven Sisters cliffs from London isn’t exactly a breeze, but it’s doable with a bit of planning. The fastest and most direct way is to take a train from London Victoria to either Seaford or Eastbourne, depending on which side of the cliffs you want to start from.
Seven Sisters via Seaford Head: Take the train to Seaford (usually with a change at Lewes). From the station, it’s about a 20-minute walk to the start of the coastal path.
Seven Sisters via Birling Gap: Take the train to Eastbourne, then catch a local bus (like the 13X) to Birling Gap. Check the bus schedule in advance, services can be infrequent, especially on weekends.
The journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours each way, depending on connections. So it’s a bit of a day trip, but definitely worth it if you’re up for a scenic adventure.
Driving to Seven Sisters
If you’re driving to the Seven Sisters, parking is generally easy and free in many spots around Seaford and Birling Gap, though it can fill up quickly on sunny weekends. I live in East London and driving there took me around 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
The parking is by South Hill Barn
